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word

A1
verbnoun

Pronunciation

UK

  • /wˈɜːd/

US

  • /ˈwɜrd/

Description

A word is a single unit of language that carries meaning. It can be spoken, written, read, or thought, and it is one of the basic pieces we use to build sentences, share ideas, and tell stories. Every conversation, message, and book depends on words to make meaning clear.

But the idea goes further than grammar. If you give someone your word, you make a promise. If you get word from someone, you receive news or a message. A single word can also be enough to express a feeling, an opinion, or a reaction. In daily life, this small part of language does a lot of work.

Examples

  1. 1

    Vocabulary learning

    I wrote down every new word I heard in the video.

  2. 2

    Choosing words

    I know what I mean, but I can't find the right word.

  3. 3

    Giving feedback

    Be careful with your words when you're giving feedback.

  4. 4

    Direct quote

    His exact words were, "I'll call you tomorrow."

  5. 5

    Misquoting

    Don't put words in my mouth.

    • Phrase

      put words in someone's mouth

      claim they said something they did not say

  6. 6

    Rephrasing

    In other words, the plan will cost more than we expected.

    • Phrase

      in other words

      said another way

  7. 7

    Private talk

    Can I have a quick word with you after the meeting?

    • Phrase

      have a word with someone

      speak to them briefly, often privately

  8. 8

    Trusting someone

    Take my word for it, that shortcut is slower.

    • Phrase

      take someone's word for it

      believe them without needing proof

  9. 9

    Promise

    She gave me her word that she would keep it secret.

    • Phrase

      give your word

      make a serious promise

  10. 10

    News received

    We've received word that the flight is delayed.

    • Pattern

      receive word that + clause

      receive news that it happened

  11. 11

    Recommendations

    The cafe became popular mostly by word of mouth.

    • Phrase

      word of mouth

      people telling each other

  12. 12

    News spreading

    Once word got around, everyone wanted tickets.

    • Phrase

      word got around

      people started to hear the news

Forms and spellings

4 forms open this card.

Main spelling

  • wordnounverb

Forms

  • wordspluralnounverb
  • wording-ing formverbnoun
  • wordedpast tenseverbnoun