augur - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
augur Word Meanings
- a person who predicts future events
- to predict or foretell
- to indicate that something will happen
augur Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
augur Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɔːɡə/
US
/ɔɡər/
augur Word Etymology
augur: 'aug-' from Latin for 'to increase' + '-ur' as a noun suffix. Originated from Latin, passed through Old French to English. Imagine a wise old man observing the flight of birds in a peaceful valley, predicting the future with confidence.
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
Augur is a somewhat formal or literary word that can be both a noun and a verb. As a noun, an augur is a person who predicts future events, historically an official who interpreted signs in ancient Rome, and today more often a fictional or historical figure. As a verb, to augur means to predict or foretell, to indicate that something will happen, often with an air of omen. In everyday English we say bode well or foreshadow, but augur carries a more deliberate sense of reading signs. You can also say augur well or augur ill to express a positive or negative forecast.
Usage Reminders
- Identify noun vs verb; remember augur is formal/literary; use augur well/ill as fixed collocations; avoid confusing with auger; consider alternatives like presage or foreshadow; practice in writing to keep tone appropriate.
Common Misconceptions
- Augur is merely a synonym of predict; it is always common in everyday speech.
- The noun augur refers to a modern occupation like a fortune teller.
- Augur and auger are interchangeable spellings with no confusion.
- To augur means only positive outcomes; it never predicts negative results.
- Augur cannot be followed by the object of the outcome.
Thinking Differences
English learners should note that augur carries a formal, literary tone and is less common in everyday speech; you may be tempted to substitute with predict or foreshadow in casual contexts.
Learning Tips
- Memorize the two main uses (noun and verb).
- Learn fixed phrases: augur well, augur ill.
- Keep in mind it can feel archaic in modern writing.
- Differentiate from auger to avoid a common confusion.
- Practice with historical or literary excerpts.
- Swap in presage or foreshadow where the sense is neutral.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'augur'?
A.To create a work of art
B.To predict or foresee a future event
C.To celebrate a special occasion
D.To fix or repair something
Step 2: Usage
Identify the correct usage of 'augur' in a sentence.
A.The weather forecast will augur a pleasant day at the beach.
B.His argument seemed to augur well for his promotion.
C.I like to augur my favorite dishes on weekends.
D.The movie did not augur well for the critics.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'augur'?
A.predictive
B.prophesy
C.fortell
D.倭
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'augur'?
A.persuade
B.inhibit
C.disprove
D.enhance
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where something could augur a specific outcome?
A.She always smiles when it's time to eat dinner.
B.Seeing dark clouds might mean it will rain later.
C.He enjoys jogging in the park every morning.
D.The news of a new product release is exciting.
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