abomination - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
abomination Word Meanings
- something that is greatly disliked or considered vile
- a feeling of extreme disgust
- a thing that causes disgust or hatred
abomination Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
abomination Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˌbɒmɪˈneɪʃən/
US
/əˌbɑːməˈneɪʃən/
abomination Word Etymology
The root 'abomin-' comes from the Latin 'abominari' (to shun as an ill omen), with '-ation' as a suffix indicating a process or action. Originating from Latin to Old French, and then to English, this word conveys the idea of something so repulsive it is shunned. Imagine a monstrous creature that nightmares are made of, embodying everything one fears.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Abomination is a strong, formal noun for something that is deeply disliked or considered utterly vile. In everyday speech it marks moral outrage, not just personal dislike, and it often appears in warnings, religious discourse, or literary contexts. You might hear that a certain act is an abomination in the eyes of the law or many readers. The phrase abomination unto the Lord is biblical in tone, but modern English speakers use abomination more broadly to describe ideas, behaviors, or objects that provoke intense disgust. Because of its severity, use it sparingly and with clear intention to avoid melodrama or insult.
Usage Reminders
- - It is a very strong, formal word.
- - Use for moral outrage or religious/literary contexts.
- - Do not apply to people; refer to actions or objects.
- - Common collocation: 'an abomination to/unto' someone or something.
- - Pair with precise verbs like 'regard as', 'consider to be', or 'deplore as'.
Common Misconceptions
- It refers only to people, not things or actions.
- It means the same as 'disgusting' in all contexts.
- It is common in casual conversation.
- It can describe minor annoyances.
- It has no biblical or religious association.
Thinking Differences
Abomination conveys a moral judgment with biblical or formal resonance in English. Learners should avoid stretching it to minor dislikes and should notice it collocates with 'to' (an abomination to/unto) and with verbs like 'deplore' or 'regard as'. It contrasts with milder words like 'disgusting' or 'abhorrent' by its weight and formality.
Learning Tips
- Know its strength: far stronger than 'disgusting'.
- Avoid using for people; refer to actions, ideas, or objects.
- Pair with 'to/unto' and verbs like 'deplore' or 'regard as'.
- Reserve for formal writing, religious or literary contexts.
- Practice with antonyms like 'acceptable' or 'permissible' to see contrast.
- Listen for biblical or historical sentence structures when you encounter it.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of 'abomination'?
A.A person of admirable qualities
B.A great dislike or hatred
C.A source of joy and happiness
D.A common event or situation
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correctly used sentence with 'abomination':
A.The abomination of the sunset amazed all who saw it.
B.Her cooking is an abomination to everyone who tastes it.
C.He considered the meeting an abomination of efficiency and productivity.
D.The children's laughter was an abomination of joy.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'abomination'?
A.Friendship
B.Happiness
C.Disgust
D.Joy
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'abomination'?
A.Sorrow
B.Delight
C.Anger
D.Frustration
Step 5: Mastery
Reflect on a real-life scenario of 'abomination':
A.Many regard acts of cruelty towards animals as a true abomination of society.
B.The beautiful artwork brought everyone joy and admiration.
C.Some people would consider cheating in a game to be a serious moral issue.
D.She felt that the surprise party was an unpleasant event.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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