appointment - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
appointment Word Meanings
- a scheduled meeting
- an arrangement to see someone
- a formal designation
appointment Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
appointment Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈpɔɪnt.mənt/
US
/əˈpɔɪntmənt/
appointment Word Etymology
ap- = to, point = to indicate. Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a person marking a calendar with a specific date to signify an important meeting.
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 reach for my calendar and move the little marker to a date. I press my finger to set the time and feel the page shift under me. The moment settles in, a small effort to hold the plan steady as the day turns. When the hour arrives, I show up, and the day feels realigned around a shared moment.
Real Context
An appointment is a fixed time arranged to meet someone, typically for business, medical care, or personal planning. You make an appointment, keep an appointment, or cancel an appointment, and you can book an appointment online or by phone. The word can also refer to a formal designation or assignment, as in an appointment to a committee or a government post. Learners often confuse appointment with a simple date or with a casual meeting, and they may mix up appointment with appoint as a verb meaning to designate someone. In everyday use, appointment emphasizes time, commitment, and formality more than a vague plan.
Usage Reminders
- - Use 'make an appointment' for arranging a time with someone or a service.
- - 'Keep an appointment' means arrive on time; 'cancel' or 'miss' if you cannot go.
- - 'Appointment' can also mean a formal designation, not just a meeting.
- - When booking online, you usually choose a date and time and provide details.
- - Distinguish from 'date' when talking about romantic plans or casual meetings.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing appointment with a simple date or casual meeting.
- Thinking appointment only refers to medical visits.
- Mistaking appoint (verb) for appointment (noun).
- Using appointment to mean 'reservation' in all service contexts.
- Assuming appointment always implies formality.
Thinking Differences
Think of appointment as a time- and context-specific commitment in English; learners often miss the formality or mix it with casual plans or a simple date.
Learning Tips
- Remember appointment emphasizes a fixed time and formal context.
- Differentiate appointment from casual plans.
- Use 'book an appointment' for arranging with a service.
- Practice 'keep an appointment' to stress punctuality.
- Know that 'appointment' can also mean a formal position or designation.
- Learn common collocations like 'appointment book'.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'appointment' correctly?
A.She made an appointment with a chair.
B.The appointment with the doctor is at 2 PM.
C.I have an appointment to climb a mountain.
D.He appointment to the store for milk.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'appointment'?
A.Fish
B.Plan
C.Happy
D.Run
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'appointment'?
A.Quiet
B.Disagreement
C.Fast
D.Big
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario of 'appointment'?
A.Meeting a friend for coffee
B.Building a sandcastle at the beach
C.Taking a nap in the park
D.Playing soccer in the backyard
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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