audition - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
audition Word Meanings
- a tryout for a role in a play or performance
- the act of listening to a performance
- a test of one's capabilities
audition Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
audition Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɔːˈdɪʃən/
US
/ɑːˈdɪʃən/
audition Word Etymology
audition = audi- (to hear) + -tion (process) → Latin audire (to hear) → Old French audicion → English. Visualize someone listening intently during a performance, ready to evaluate talent.
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
Audition is both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it means a tryout for a role in theatre, film, or music; as a verb, it means to try out or to listen to someone’s performance in order to judge whether they fit a part or program. The phrase “callback” often follows an initial audition, indicating a second, more selective hearing. In everyday use, you can say you have an audition for a play or you audition for a role. Note that auditioning is about talent and fit, not merely completing a task; it is a formal selection process in the arts.
Usage Reminders
- • Audition can be a noun or a verb
- • Use audition for a role: audition for a part; avoid saying you audition someone as a default
- • Pronounce: a-DISH-uhn, with emphasis on the second syllable
- • Common collocations: audition for, audition tape, callback, casting call
- • Contexts: theater, film, music, dance
Common Misconceptions
- Audition is only for actors
- An audition guarantees a job
- Audition and interview are the same thing
- You only audition once for a part
- If you fail an audition you must be untalented
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker how auditions function as formal talent assessments with staged opportunities and callbacks; emphasize the arts context and the pre-selection nature.
Learning Tips
- 7 practice sentences using audition in different contexts
- Record yourself performing a short audition piece and review pacing
- Note differences in using for a role vs listening to someone perform
- Memorize common collocations like 'audition for' and 'callback'
- Explore related terms like 'casting' and 'tape' to build vocabulary
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'audition'?
A.Singing
B.Dance rehearsal
C.Try-out for a role
D.Costume fitting
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'audition' used correctly?
A.She auditions to become a better singer.
B.I auditioned my new puppy to see if he follows commands.
C.The dance audition was full of props and costumes.
D.I auditioned for the school play last week.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following words is a synonym of 'audition'?
A.Performance
B.Rehearsal
C.Interview
D.Recital
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'audition'?
A.Practice
B.Rehearsal
C.Rejection
D.Selection
Step 5: Mastery
How does the word 'audition' apply in the real world?
A.Shopping for clothes
B.Cooking competition
C.Driving test
D.Job interviews
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