Reading Theme:
Service Definition, Usage & Key Examples (3 meaning)
Meaning 1：act of helping (service)
service
/ˈsɜːrvɪs/
n.
The action of helping or doing work for someone.
act of helping
➕
/ækt əv ˈhɛlpɪŋ/
n.
Refers to the action of assisting or performing work for others.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'servitium' (slavery, service), derived from 'servus' (slave).
💡 Mnemonic
Imagine a server serving you – that's service! It's about helping or providing.
📖 Example
The staff at this café are known for their friendly and efficient service.
The café staff are renowned for their pleasant and quick assistance.
🔗 Collocations
customer service – support provided to clients
food service – preparation and delivery of meals
self-service – system where customers serve themselves
🔄 Synonyms
assistance (n.) – help or aid given to someone
aid (n.) – support or assistance
help (n.) – act of making something easier for others
🚫 Antonyms
disservice (n.) – an action that harms or fails to help
📖 Cultural Story
Originates from Latin 'servitium', meaning slavery or duty. Entered English via Old French. Today, it's central to business and public sectors, emphasizing assistance and utility.
Meaning 2：public system (service)
service
/ˈsɜːrvɪs/
n.
A system or organization that provides something the public needs, like transport or utilities.
public system
➕
/ˈpʌblɪk ˈsɪstəm/
n.
Denotes an organized system that supplies essential needs to the community, such as transport or utilities.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The bus service to the airport runs every 30 minutes.
The airport bus operates every half hour.
🔗 Collocations
public service – government-provided essential services
transport service – system for moving people or goods
utility service – provision of water, electricity, etc.
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
privatization (n.) – transfer of public services to private ownership
🌱 Derivatives
servicer (n.) – an entity that provides a service
Meaning 3：maintenance work (service)
service
/ˈsɜːrvɪs/
n.
The maintenance or repair work done on a machine or vehicle to keep it working well.
maintenance work
➕
/meɪnˈtenəns wɜːrk/
n.
Involves the routine checking and repairing of equipment or vehicles to ensure proper functioning.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
My car is due for its annual service next week to check the engine and brakes.
My vehicle needs its yearly check-up for engine and brake inspection next week.
🔗 Collocations
car service – scheduled maintenance for automobiles
annual service – yearly inspection and upkeep
full service – comprehensive maintenance package
🔄 Synonyms
maintenance (n.) – work to keep something in good condition
upkeep (n.) – process of maintaining something
repair (n.) – action of fixing something broken
🚫 Antonyms
neglect (n.) – failure to maintain or care for something
🌱 Derivatives
serviceable (adj.) – in good condition for use
servicing (n.) – the act of performing maintenance
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