amour - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
amour Word Meanings
- a deep feeling of affection (love)
- a romantic relationship
- a strong attachment or passion
amour Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
amour Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈmʊə/
US
/əˈmʊr/
amour Word Etymology
Root: ‘am-’ (to love) + ‘-our’ (a noun suffix). Historical origin: Latin ‘amor’ → Old French ‘amour’ → English. Memory image: Imagine a romantic Parisian evening, surrounded by love and affection, capturing the essence of 'amour' in every glance.
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
Amour is a French loanword used in English to describe a deep feeling of affection, a romantic relationship, or a strong attachment. In modern use, it can appear in literary or stylized contexts, or in phrases borrowed from French, such as amour-propre or amour fou, where the word carries a slightly elevated, poetic tone. Although related to the everyday love word love, amour tends to imply intimacy, passion, or a vow rather than plain friendship. In everyday speech, many English speakers prefer love, sweetheart, or darling, reserving amour for art, fashion, or conversations about French culture. Remember the spelling and the French pronunciation, especially the final 'ur' sound.
Usage Reminders
- amour is a noun; it is not a verb.
- In English, amour is formal or literary, not common in casual speech.
- It usually refers to deep affection or a romantic bond, not mere liking.
- It is typically used for literary, poetic, or cultural contexts.
- Spelling and pronunciation follow French conventions; don’t translate to amor or amore in ordinary English contexts.
Common Misconceptions
- amour is simply another word for love in all contexts.
- amour can replace love in casual conversations with friends.
- amour refers to a person named Amour or a place.
- amour is a modern, everyday term you hear on TV.
- amour is always romantic and cannot describe family affection.
Thinking Differences
Amour carries a distinctly French flavor in English. Learners often treat it as a direct synonym for love, which leads to using it in casual chat or with family in awkward ways. It sounds formal or literary to many, and the final 'ur' can be mispronounced. Remember that amour is less common in everyday English and shines in poetry, fashion, or discussions of French culture.
Learning Tips
- Read Parisian literature or fashion writing to see amour in context.
- Pay attention to the tone; reserve amour for poetic moments.
- Compare with love to feel the nuance of intimacy and passion.
- Listen for French pronunciation, especially the final 'ur'.
- Avoid forcing amour into casual conversations with friends.
- Practice with phrases like amour-propre or amour fou to see usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'amour'?
A.A deep love or affection
B.A strong dislike
C.A type of flower
D.An animal species
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'amour' correctly?
A.The cat showed its amour by scratching the couch.
B.Their amour for each other was evident during the anniversary dinner.
C.He expressed his amour by painting the fence.
D.Her amour was reflected in the vibrant colors of her artwork.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'amour'?
A.Affection
B.Hatred
C.Anger
D.Frustration
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'amour'?
A.Friendship
B.Indifference
C.Adoration
D.Passion
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might express their love?
A.At a wedding, a couple exchanged vows to declare their permanent affection.
B.A person quietly read a book.
C.After receiving a complaint, the manager adjusted the store policies.
D.A friend gave a casual greeting at the coffee shop.
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