apiece - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
apiece Word Meanings
- per item or unit
- for each piece
- individually
apiece Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
apiece Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈpiːs/
US
/əˈpiːs/
apiece Word Etymology
a- = each + piece = part. Historical origin: Middle English from 'a' + 'piece'. Memory image: Imagine taking a slice from a large cake, savoring each individual slice; each slice is a piece enjoyed alone.
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
Apiece is an adverb meaning per item, per unit, or for each piece. It emphasizes that items are priced or considered individually, not as a bundle. You will see it after a number or amount: 'five apples cost two dollars apiece' or 'the books were priced at three dollars apiece.' It can contrast with phrases implying collective pricing, such as 'total' or 'in bulk,' though that contrast depends on context. A helpful memory image is a bakery tray where every slice is priced the same; take one slice and pay one amount. Remember: use apiece with countable nouns when discussing price or quantity for each item.
Usage Reminders
- Use after a number to express price per item.
- Apiece goes with countable nouns only.
- Avoid 'per each'; use apiece after the numeral.
- It often follows a quantity (e. g., five apples) rather than a noun alone.
- Can replace 'per item' in many pricing contexts.
Common Misconceptions
- It can be used with uncountable nouns (false).
- It always means 'per' in every context (false).
- It sounds odd after very large quantities (rare but possible).
- It can modify nouns directly (false; it follows a number).
- It is interchangeable with 'each' or 'per item' in all cases (false).
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: apiece foregrounds per-item pricing after a number and is most natural with countable nouns; learners often mix it with per or each in long lists.
Learning Tips
- Practice with common items: apples, books, tickets.
- Compare apiece with phrases like 'each' and 'per item' to see where usage differs.
- Listen for apiece after numbers in pricing on signs or menus.
- When in doubt, rephrase with 'per item' or 'each' to test feel.
- Use with plural nouns to reinforce plural agreement.
- Create your own price-per-item examples to memorize.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'apiece'?
A.Quickly
B.Separately
C.Together
D.One by one
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'apiece' used correctly?
A.They shared the cake apiece.
B.They shared the cake quickly.
C.They shared the cake together.
D.They shared the cake separately.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'apiece'?
A.Jointly
B.Individually
C.Collectively
D.Unified
Step 4: Opposite Words
Imagine a scenario where people are dividing apples equally, which word would best describe the situation?
A.Scarcely
B.Randomly
C.Generously
D.Equally
Step 5: Mastery
Reflect on a situation where you had to share items 'apiece'.
A.Family dinner
B.Picnic with friends
C.School project
D.Movie night with siblings
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