anthology - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
anthology Word Meanings
- a collection of selected literary works
- an assortment of various writings
- a book or work that contains a variety of poems or stories
anthology Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
anthology Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ænˈθɒlədʒi/
US
/ænˈθɑlədʒi/
anthology Word Etymology
anthology = antho- (flower) + logy (study) | Greek → Latin → English; imagine a beautiful garden filled with various flowers, each representing a different literary piece, all together in a stunning bouquet.
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
An anthology is a book that collects a variety of literary pieces, often by different authors, united by a theme, form, or period. In everyday use, people talk about anthologies of poetry, short stories, or fairy tales. The word evokes a curated showcase rather than a single author’s work. When you study an anthology in class, you might analyze how the pieces echo or contrast with one another, what the selection reveals about a literary movement, or how editors choose pieces to present a balanced view. Learners should note that anthology is countable: an anthology, two anthologies, etc.
Usage Reminders
- Use anthology for a curated collection of varied pieces.
- Remember it is not an author’s complete works.
- Can include poetry, stories, essays, and more.
- Countable: an anthology, two anthologies.
- Pay attention to editor’s role in shaping the selection.
Common Misconceptions
- It contains only poetry.
- It is the complete works of a single author.
- Antologies must be very long and scholarly.
- Literary editors pick pieces randomly with no standard.
- An anthology and a single-author collection are the same.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: Anthology emphasizes a curated selection of pieces by different authors, which may be surprising to learners who expect a single voice or a single genre.
Learning Tips
- memorize that anthology is a curated collection, not a single author
- notice the plural form anthologies
- look for editor notes that explain the theme
- practice phrases like 'an anthology of poems' vs 'the poems in the anthology'
- compare works from different authors to see varied styles
- use it with topics like 'modern vs classical' to discuss selections
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'anthology'?
A.The act of walking in a circle
B.A type of fruit
C.A collection of poems or literary works
D.A small insect
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'anthology' used correctly?
A.She enjoyed reading the anthology of short stories.
B.He rode his bike through the anthology.
C.The cat meowed at the anthology.
D.I saw a beautiful anthology in the garden.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'anthology'?
A.Isolation
B.Destruction
C.Compilation
D.Expansion
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'anthology'?
A.Admiration
B.Individual
C.Commencement
D.Diligence
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you find an anthology?
A.Art exhibition
B.Gaming console
C.Fast food restaurant menu
D.Library bookshelf filled with various novels
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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