Reading Theme:
Sinew: Definition, Usage & Key Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：essential support (sinew)
sinew
/ˈsɪn.juː/
n.
The main support or source of strength that makes something strong, effective, or lasting.
essential support
➕
/ɪˈsen.ʃəl səˈpɔːrt/
n.
Refers to the crucial elements or resources that provide strength and stability to a system, organization, or structure.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Old English 'sinu', meaning tendon, related to strength and connection.
💡 Mnemonic
Think sinew as the string that ties muscles to bones, like support ties systems together.
📖 Example
The sinews of a modern city are not just roads and bridges, but also its reliable internet and power supply.
The vital supports of a contemporary city include not only physical infrastructure like roads and bridges but also dependable services such as internet and electricity.
🔗 Collocations
sinews of industry – the essential resources or capital required for industrial operations
sinews of war – the financial or material supports necessary for conducting warfare
sinews of government – the fundamental structures that enable effective governance
🔄 Synonyms
backbone (n.) – the main support or most important part of something
mainstay (n.) – a person or thing that provides essential support
cornerstone (n.) – a vital foundation or basis for something
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
sinewy (adj.) – having strong sinews; muscular, tough, or vigorous
📖 Cultural Story
Sinew originates from Old English 'sinu', referring to tendons that connect muscles to bones. It is often used metaphorically to describe essential supports in systems like infrastructure or economy, reflecting its role in physical strength.
Meaning 2：tendon (sinew)
sinew
/ˈsɪn.juː/
n.
A tough, string-like piece of tissue in the body that connects a muscle to a bone.
tendon
➕
/ˈten.dən/
n.
A tough, fibrous cord of tissue that connects a muscle to a bone, enabling movement and transmitting force during physical activity.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
After the marathon, he felt a sharp pain in the sinew behind his knee, so he went to see a physiotherapist.
Following the marathon, he experienced sharp pain in the tendon behind his knee and sought treatment from a physiotherapist.
🔗 Collocations
strain a sinew – to overstretch or injure a tendon through physical exertion
sinew injury – damage to the tendon tissue, often causing pain or mobility issues
achilles sinew – a term for the Achilles tendon, a critical tendon in the lower leg
🔄 Synonyms
🌱 Derivatives
sinewy (adj.) – having strong sinews; muscular, tough, or vigorous
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