bread - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
bread Word Meanings
- a staple food made from flour and water
- a type of loaf or slice
- figuratively refers to money or sustenance
bread Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
bread Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/brɛd/
US
/brɛd/
bread Word Etymology
bread = brēad (Old English) - from Proto-Germanic *brauds (meaning 'to rise'). Historical origin: Proto-Indo-European → Proto-Germanic → Old English. Memory image: A loaf of bread rising in the oven symbolizes sustenance and growth.
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
Hold the loaf in my hand and move it to the edge of the counter, feeling the crust give under a gentle pressure. I slice, watching the crumb change from whole to ready-to-eat, then press a warm slice into the toaster and let the edges turn gold. As I bite, the simple hunger grows into a quiet sense of keeping myself going, a small push toward the next meal. I set the bread on the plate and carry that small sustenance through the day.
Real Context
Bread is a basic staple in many cultures, but English learners often stumble over its usage. Bread is typically a mass noun, so we say bread in general, not a bread. When counting, you usually specify a unit, such as a loaf of bread or slices of bread. The word also appears in phrases like bread and butter and the compound breadwinner, which is one word. The metaphorical sense of money, or sustenance, is informal and common in American and British speech, but not everything that looks like bread is money. Learners sometimes mix up bread with pastries, or confuse loaf with slice.
Usage Reminders
- Bread is usually uncountable; use a loaf of bread or slices of bread to count.
- Use 'loaf' and 'slice' when you need a unit.
- Bread can appear in phrases like bread and butter or in the word breadwinner.
- Money sense is informal and regional; don’t assume every bread reference means money.
- Distinguish bread from other baked goods like cake or pastries.
Common Misconceptions
- Bread is always plural (breads) in everyday English.
- Bread always refers to money in all contexts.
- Bread can be counted with the article 'a' before it in general statements.
- Loaf and slice are interchangeable in all contexts.
- All baked goods are the same as bread.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Record yourself using bread in different contexts and compare with native speakers.
- Practice countable units: loaf, slice, piece, and how to choose which to use.
- Learn common phrases like bread and butter and idioms like breadwinner.
- Note when bread takes a metaphorical sense (money) and when it does not.
- Differentiate bread from pastries and other baked goods.
- Read/listen to everyday English to hear natural usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'bread'?
A.A type of fabric
B.A staple food made from flour
C.A small river
D.A type of dance
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'bread' correctly?
A.She spread peanut butter on the bread and placed it in the toaster.
B.He watered the bread plant in his backyard.
C.The cat knocked over the bread box in the kitchen.
D.The bread of the shoe was torn.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'bread'?
A.Pencil
B.Cereal
C.Chair
D.Car
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'bread'?
A.Starve
B.Water
C.Sleep
D.Run
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context for 'bread'?
A.He fixed the broken clock in the living room.
B.She baked some delicious bread for the family dinner.
C.They went hiking in the national park.
D.The car engine started making strange noises.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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