breakfast - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
breakfast Word Meanings
- the first meal of the day
- a meal eaten in the morning
- the breaking of the fast from the night
breakfast Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
breakfast Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈbrɛkfəs t/
US
/ˈbrɛkfəst/
breakfast Word Etymology
breakfast = break + fast; meaning to 'break' the 'fast' from the night. Originated from Old English 'brecfōda', influenced by early French usages. Imagine someone excitedly lifting the lid off a breakfast dish to savor the flavors after a long night without food.
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
First I sit up and push the covers off, feet finding the cool floor. I turn on the kettle, set a plate on the table, and watch steam curl up as I pour. I take a bite, adjust my grip on the spoon, and keep a steady rhythm as hunger wakes my senses. The morning rhythm makes the day feel possible, a small moment where breakfast moves from plan to action.
Real Context
Breakfast is the first meal of the day and the act of breaking the overnight fast. In everyday English, breakfast is typically eaten in the morning, but the exact time and size vary by culture and schedule. People enjoy a wide range of foods, from cereal and toast to eggs, fruit, yogurt, and coffee. The idea is to resume energy after sleep, not to eat an extravagant meal. In formal writing you may refer to breakfast simply as a meal, while in casual talk you might say you skipped breakfast. The term comes from break + fast, meaning to end the night’s fast.
Usage Reminders
- - Breakfast is a morning meal.
- - You can say 'have breakfast' or 'skip breakfast'.
- - Time and portions vary by culture.
- - Do not use 'breakfast' to refer to a snack.
- - Remember the etymology: break + fast.
Common Misconceptions
- Breakfast is just cereal or a quick snack.
- Skipping breakfast always makes you unhealthy.
- Breakfast must be eaten exactly at the same time every day.
- All breakfasts are heavy and expensive.
- The word breakfast only refers to the morning meal.
Thinking Differences
English speakers think of breakfast as a concrete daily meal with flexible timing; learners often mix it up with snacks or think of 'breakfast' only as cereals. Emphasize the concept of 'the first meal' and 'to break the fast'.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: breakfast cereal, breakfast foods, have breakfast, skip breakfast.
- Practice times: early morning vs late morning breakfasts.
- Compare with brunch to discuss weekend variations.
- Note polite phrasing around breakfast interruptions (I can’t have breakfast).
- Use the etymology to explain the meaning (break + fast).
- Read menus and notices mentioning breakfast hours in English-speaking places.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'breakfast'?
A.Dinner
B.Last meal of the day
C.Lunch
D.First meal of the day
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'breakfast' used in a sentence?
A.I went shopping for breakfast.
B.I had breakfast at a cafe this morning.
C.I watched a movie for breakfast.
D.I took a nap after breakfast.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a similar word to 'breakfast'?
A.Afternoon tea
B.Dinner
C.Midnight snack
D.Brunch
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'breakfast'?
A.Lunch
B.Dinner
C.Midnight snack
D.Afternoon tea
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you typically have breakfast?
A.At a party in the evening
B.At work during a meeting
C.At the gym after exercising
D.At home before starting your day
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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