attorney - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
attorney Word Meanings
- a person who is legally appointed to act for another in legal matters
- a lawyer
- someone who represents someone else in a legal capacity
attorney Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
attorney Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈtɜːni/
US
/əˈtɝni/
attorney Word Etymology
Latin 'attornare' = to turn over, 'attorney' = one who is turned over (to represent someone). Originated from Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a lawyer turning over documents to represent a client in court.
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 attorney is a person legally appointed to act for another in legal matters; in the United States, attorney is often used interchangeably with lawyer, especially in formal contexts, and you might hear attorney at law to emphasize professional status. In everyday speech, people also say the attorney representing the client or my attorney. Some contexts prefer lawyer or counsel depending on setting; in corporate or court contexts, attorney is common. Note that in civil law countries attorney is not usually used in English; in UK usage, solicitor or barrister is more common. This distinction matters when reading contracts, court docs, or news about lawsuits.
Usage Reminders
- In American English, attorney is the formal, legal term for someone who can act for a client in court.
- Attorney at law is a common fixed phrase; many speakers also say simply 'the attorney'.
- Don't use attorney to mean judge, notary, or a non-lawyer.
- In the UK, use solicitor or barrister instead of attorney in most contexts.
- Look for common collocations: defense attorney, corporate attorney, and attorney general.
Common Misconceptions
- Attorney and lawyer are always interchangeable in all contexts.
- An attorney is the same as a judge.
- ‘Attorney’ is used for notaries or legal secretaries.
- You should never say 'attorney general' in everyday conversation.
- In all countries, ‘attorney’ means the same as ‘advocate’.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Learn the main senses: formal legal agent vs general lawyer.
- memorize common collocations: defense attorney, corporate attorney, attorney general.
- Differentiate attorney at law vs attorney; context matters.
- Be aware of UK terms solicitor/barrister.
- Practice matching to notary, judge, and lawyer to avoid false friends.
- Use varied, authentic sentences to reinforce usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'attorney' used in a sentence?
A.The attorney fixed a car.
B.The attorney built a bridge.
C.The attorney cooked dinner.
D.The attorney treated his client with respect.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'attorney'?
A.Doctor
B.Chef
C.Pilot
D.Solicitor
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'attorney'?
A.Client
B.Teacher
C.Engineer
D.Carpenter
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you encounter an attorney?
A.Building a house
B.Performing a surgery in a hospital
C.In a courtroom defending a client
D.Teaching a class at a school
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