Reading Theme:
Bound: Definitions, Examples & Common Errors (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：certain to happen (bound)
bound
/baʊnd/
adj.
It means something is very sure to happen, like a natural result.
certain to happen
➕
/ˈsɜːrtn tə ˈhæpən/
adj.
Used to describe an outcome that is unavoidable or very likely because of the nature of the circumstances.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Old Norse 'bua' (prepare), via Middle English, evolving to mean 'limit' or 'direction'.
💡 Mnemonic
Think of being 'bound by duty' (certain) or a 'train bound for' a city (headed).
📖 Example
With the dark clouds gathering, it's bound to rain soon.
Given the presence of dark clouds, rain is certain to occur shortly.
🔗 Collocations
bound to happen – certain or inevitable to occur
bound for success – destined or very likely to be successful
morally bound – obligated by ethical principles
🔄 Synonyms
certain (adj.) – Definite and sure to happen.
destined (adj.) – Intended or fated for a particular future.
inevitable (adj.) – Impossible to avoid or prevent.
🌱 Derivatives
boundary (n.) – A line that marks the limits of an area.
📖 Cultural Story
In nautical terminology, 'homeward bound' describes a ship destined for its home port, a classic usage that solidified the directional sense of the word in English culture.
Meaning 2：headed for (bound)
bound
/baʊnd/
adj.
It describes a vehicle or person going towards a specific place.
headed for
➕
/ˈhɛdɪd fɔːr/
adj.
Describes something, typically a vehicle or person, that is traveling towards a specific destination.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The next train is bound for London, leaving from platform 5.
The following train is headed to London and will depart from platform 5.
🔗 Collocations
bound for – traveling or directed towards a specific destination
homeward bound – on the way back to one's home
outward bound – heading away from home or the starting point
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
stationary (adj.) – Not moving or not intended to be moved.
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