afield - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
afield Word Meanings
- in or to an open field
- away from home or normal surroundings
- in the field of work or study
afield Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
afield Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈfiːld/
US
/əˈfiːld/
afield Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'a-' (in) + 'field' (open land). Historical origin: Middle English 'afielde', possibly from Old English 'æfielde'. Memory image: Picture a vast, serene field under a wide sky, where one finds peace away from the hustle of urban life.
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
afield is an old-fashioned adverb meaning being in or going to an open field, traveling away from home or normal surroundings, or working in one's professional or academic field. It appears mainly in literary or regional prose rather than everyday speech. You might see it in phrases like 'go afield to map the plains' or 'the team went afield for the harvest,' and in contexts such as 'out afield in his research.' The sense of distance from home contrasts with the sense of professional activity. In contemporary English, people normally say 'in the field,' 'out in the countryside,' or 'in his line of work.'
Usage Reminders
- - Remember afield is archaic; use sparingly in modern writing.
- - Learn its three senses: in a field, away from home, in a field of work.
- - Distinguish between 'in the field' (professional) and literal field.
- - It’s usually spelled as one word, not 'a field'.
- - Watch for regional flavor; it can sound old-fashioned.
- - Prefer direct alternatives like 'in the field' in everyday speech.
Common Misconceptions
- It literally means 'in a field' as a physical location at all times.
- It is commonly used in everyday conversation like 'I went afield yesterday.'
- It is interchangeable with 'in the field' in all contexts.
- It refers to agriculture or farming only.
- It is a modern, widely used term in business English.
Thinking Differences
A field-specific idiom that English learners tend to overgeneralize; in everyday English we say 'in the field' for work, and 'out in the countryside' for geography, not 'afield' unless the context is literary or historical.
Learning Tips
- Recognize its archaic tone and avoid in casual speech.
- Memorize the three senses and the main collocations.
- Differentiate between 'in the field' (work) and literal field.
- Note that it is a single word; do not split as 'a field'.
- Practice with literary samples to grasp nuance.
- Replace with modern phrases when unsure.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'afield' mean?
A.In a faraway place
B.A type of fish
C.In the field or to a distance away
D.A way of studying
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence that uses 'afield' correctly.
A.The cat jumped afield to catch the mouse.
B.She plays the guitar afield in the park every weekend.
C.He went afield to gather herbs for his research.
D.The meeting was afield for discussing strategies.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'afield'?
A.Close
B.Near
C.Away
D.Home
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'afield'?
A.Home
B.Abroad
C.Remote
D.Far
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where someone might mention being afield?
A.They trekked through the mountains looking for wildlife.
B.She watered the plants in her backyard.
C.He cooked dinner for his family.
D.They organized a community event.
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