addicts - Master This Word
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addicts Word Meanings
- to be physically or mentally dependent on a substance
- a person who is addicted to a particular substance or activity
- to strongly desire something to the point of dependency
addicts Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
addicts Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈædɪkt/
US
/ˈædɪkt/
addicts Word Etymology
From 'addict' = ad- (toward) + dict (to say or declare), meaning to declare oneself devoted. Latin origin via Old French to English. Imagine someone bowing and declaring loyalty to a powerful substance or habit.
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
Addict is a noun for a person who is physically or mentally dependent on a substance or activity. It can also be a verb meaning to cause someone to become dependent. In everyday English you’ll hear phrases like 'drug addict' or 'video game addict,' but the state of being addicted is better described with 'addicted to' or 'addiction.' Use 'an addict' to refer to a person, not to a thing. The word can carry stigma, so choose neutral phrasing when speaking about someone’s condition. Remember the related noun 'addiction' and the adjective 'addicted' to describe the state rather than the person.
Usage Reminders
- Use 'addict' as a noun for a person; describe the state with 'addicted to' or 'addiction'. The verb form is 'to addict someone to something'. The adjective form is 'addicted'. Avoid using 'addict' to modify other nouns. Be mindful of stigma when referring to real people.
Common Misconceptions
- Addict only refers to drugs; it also describes dependence on other activities or behaviors.
- Be addicted to something is a state, not a person: never say 'I am an addict' unless referring to yourself with care.
- To addict is a transitive verb; you cannot simply say 'addicted' as a verb.
- Addiction is the condition; addiction ≠ the person; 'an addict' is the person.
- Confusing 'addict' with 'addicted' or 'addiction' leads to awkward or incorrect phrasing.
Thinking Differences
English clearly separates the person (addict) from the state (addicted to). Learners often treat addicted as a verb; be mindful of the noun vs. adjective distinction.
Learning Tips
- Know the noun vs verb vs adjective forms: addict (person), addicted (state), addiction (concept).
- Pair with the target object: 'drug addict' or 'video game addict' rather than generic phrases.
- Use 'be addicted to' to describe the state; use 'an addict' when talking about the person.
- Be mindful of stigma; choose neutral, respectful phrasing.
- Learn the transitive verb: 'to addict someone to something' (requires a direct object).
- Practice with common collocations and replacements like 'addiction' or 'addicted to coffee'.
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