alcohol - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
alcohol Word Meanings
- A colorless liquid used as a beverage or antiseptic.
- Any organic compound with a hydroxyl group (-OH).
- A term for inebriation or intoxication.
alcohol Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
alcohol Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈæl.kə.hɒl/
US
/ˈæl.kə.hɔl/
alcohol Word Etymology
Root decomposition: al- = 'the', cohol = 'kohl' (a powder of antimony). Historical origin: Arabic → Latin → Middle English. Memory image: Picture a clear liquid that seems to reflect the essence of celebration and gatherings, often associated with cheers among friends.
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 InputEnglish Brain Route
I lift a glass and move it toward my lips, fingers finding a steady hold. The colorless liquid shifts as I tilt, a cool splash and a faint scent rising. I adjust my grip and feel the warmth slide down, a quiet change in mood. By the end, the word sits with the glass in my hand, the warmth in my chest, and the sense that alcohol can name both a drink and a mood.
Real Context
Alcohol is a colorless liquid with many roles. As a beverage it includes beer, wine, and spirits produced by fermentation or distillation. In science, alcohol refers to any organic compound containing a hydroxyl group (-OH), with ethanol being the most common drinking type. In everyday English, 'alcohol' can also mean intoxication or the state of being drunk, especially in phrases like 'under the influence' or 'alcohol-free' products. The word traces its roots through Arabic to Latin and Middle English, and a memory image is a clear liquid tied to celebrations and gatherings.
Usage Reminders
- Use alcohol to talk about drinks or chemical substances.
- Distinguish between 'alcohol' (unspecific) and 'ethanol' (specific chemical).
- Be aware that 'alcohol' can mean intoxication in everyday speech.
- Alcohol is uncountable when referring to the substance in general, but 'alcohols' exist in chemistry.
- Respect local laws and age limits when discussing drinking.
Common Misconceptions
- Alcohol always means the drink, not the chemical.
- Ethanol is the only type of alcohol people refer to.
- Drinking alcohol is always safe.
- Alcohol-free products never contain any alcohol at all.
- Alcohol only matters in celebrations or parties.
Thinking Differences
English learners often separate 'alcohol' as a general term from specific chemical uses (ethanol) and from colloquial senses like intoxication; keep these senses distinct in context.
Learning Tips
- Listen for context to distinguish senses.
- Practice with sentences about drinking, chemistry, and intoxication.
- Note that 'alcohol' is uncountable in general use but 'alcohols' exists in chemistry.
- Learn common collocations like 'alcohol content' and 'alcohol-free'.
- Remember the etymology can help recall the link to celebrations.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'alcohol' refer to?
A.A type of plant
B.A type of food
C.A type of liquid
D.A type of animal
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'alcohol' commonly used in everyday conversation?
A.To describe a type of weather
B.To indicate a type of sport
C.To talk about a type of music
D.To refer to a type of drink
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a similar word to 'alcohol'?
A.Clothing
B.Juice
C.Technology
D.Education
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite meaning of 'alcohol'?
A.Food
B.Water
C.Air
D.Fire
Step 5: Mastery
In what context might you encounter the word 'alcohol'?
A.At a grocery store
B.At a bar or restaurant
C.At a movie theater
D.In a pet shop
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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