buffet - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
buffet Word Meanings
- a meal where guests serve themselves
- to strike repeatedly
- a severe blow or setback
buffet Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
buffet Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈbʌf.eɪ/
US
/ˈbʌf.eɪ/
buffet Word Etymology
from Middle French 'buffet', meaning 'a strike' (related to 'buffet' as a verb). Picture a long table filled with various foods where guests can strike their plates and choose what they want, or imagine someone getting knocked back repeatedly by strong gusts of wind.
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
Buffet has three common meanings in English: a self-serve meal, the verb to strike repeatedly, and a severe setback or blow. As a meal, it usually appears as a self-serve arrangement, with the pronunciation BUF-fay (/ˈbʊfeɪ/). As a verb, to buffet means to strike or push something or someone repeatedly, often by wind, waves, or crowd pressure, pronounced BUF-fit (/ˈbʌfɪt/). The third, more figurative sense refers to a harsh series of problems or losses. Learners often mix up the pronunciations or assume the meal sense always involves a direct hit. Use clear contexts to keep the senses distinct.
Usage Reminders
- - Remember the noun vs verb pronunciation: BUF-fay vs buh-FET.
- - The meal sense is self-serve; the verb is physical or forceful.
- - The wind or waves can buffet you; it’s not pleasant.
- - The “setback” sense is figurative, not a meal or strike.
- - Don’t confuse with similar words like 'buff' or 'buffer'.
Common Misconceptions
- Assuming buffet always means a restaurant-style meal.
- Thinking all buffet contexts involve wind or physical force.
- Confusing the pronunciation of noun vs verb forms.
- Believing buffet is a proper noun or brand name.
- Using buffet in a non-self-service scope for meals.
Thinking Differences
For English thinkers, buffet is a three-way pocketed concept: a self-serve meal, a physical act of striking or buffeting, and a figurative setback. Learners must navigate distinct pronunciations and contexts. Focus on word position and surrounding words to cue the intended sense.
Learning Tips
- Listen for the noun vs verb pronunciation and stress.
- Associate the meal sense with self-service wording.
- Practice expressing wind or weather buffeting someone.
- Use the figurative sense in discussions of setbacks.
- Remember not to treat buffet as a brand name.
- Create mini-dialogues that switch meanings by context.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'buffet' mean?
A.meal where dishes are placed on a table for self-service
B.type of furniture
C.type of dance
D.small bird
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'buffet' used correctly?
A.The buffet on Friday night was delicious.
B.She bought a new buffet for her living room.
C.He buffeted the opponent during the game.
D.They watched a buffet performance at the theater.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'buffet'?
A.Feast
B.Introduce
C.Escape
D.Protest
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what situation would you most likely encounter a buffet?
A.ttending a funeral
B.elebrating a birthday party
C.Taking a math test
D.Going for a hike
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a time when you enjoyed a buffet meal?
A.Share your experience
B.Learnt the word in school
C.Watched a movie scene
D.Read a book mentioning buffets
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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