Reading Theme:
Word Definition: Language Unit & Promise Explained (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：language unit (word)
word
/wɜːrd/
n.
The smallest unit of language that has meaning by itself, like 'cat' or 'run'.
language unit
➕
/ˈlæŋɡwɪdʒ ˈjuːnɪt/
n.
A word is the smallest meaningful unit of language that can stand alone. Examples include 'cat', 'run', and 'beautiful'.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Old English 'word', akin to Latin 'verbum' meaning 'word' and Greek 'rhema'.
💡 Mnemonic
Think of 'W' as 'Write' – words are written or spoken units that carry meaning.
📖 Example
The child pointed at the word 'cat' in the picture book and made a meowing sound.
The child pointed at the word 'cat' in the picture book and made a meowing sound.
🔗 Collocations
new word – a word that is recently introduced or learned
word meaning – the definition or sense of a word
word formation – the process of creating new words in a language
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
📖 Cultural Story
Old English 'word' is related to Latin 'verbum' and Greek 'rhema'. The phrase 'by word of mouth' dates to the 14th century, showing long-standing use in oral communication.
Meaning 2：a promise or assurance (word)
word
/wɜːrd/
n.
Something that you say to express an idea, give a promise, or pass on information. It's more than just a sound; it carries your intention.
a promise or assurance
➕
/ə ˈprɑːmɪs ɔːr əˈʃʊrəns/
n.
A word can refer to a brief remark or statement that conveys a commitment, such as giving your word to keep a secret.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The teacher's kind word of encouragement, "Well done!", made the student feel much more confident.
The teacher's kind word of encouragement, "Well done!", made the student feel much more confident.
🔗 Collocations
give one's word – to make a sincere promise
keep one's word – to fulfill a promise
break one's word – to fail to keep a promise
🔄 Synonyms
Wordbook
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