cable - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
cable Word Meanings
- a thick wire or thick bundle of wires that carry electricity or signals
- a system of wires that transmits data
- to send a message by cable or wire
cable Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
cable Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkeɪ.bəl/
US
/ˈkeɪ.bəl/
cable Word Etymology
Cable comes from the Latin 'capulum' meaning 'a rope' or 'a chain'. The word traveled through Old French 'câble' before arriving in English. Imagine a thick, sturdy rope used to anchor a ship, representing connections and strength.
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
I reach for a cable and feel its cool stiffness in my palm. I move my fingers, pull it toward a device, then set it into a port and hold it steady. The rhythm of push and pull in my hands leaves me listening to the tiny hum of power and data, a moment of focus and control. Meaning unfolds as I imagine the cable as a bridge that carries energy or messages, something I can place and keep in place as I work.
Real Context
Cable is a versatile word in English, used as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it usually means a thick wire or bundle of wires that carry electricity or signals; it can also refer to a system of wires used to transmit data, such as undersea communication cables or the cables in a building’s network. As a verb, to cable means to send a message by cable, a historically common practice that is now mainly found in formal or historical writing. In everyday speech you will encounter phrases like fiber optic cable, coaxial cable, and cable television, where the word highlights physical connections.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: treat cable as both countable and uncountable; distinguish between wire vs cable; note the data transmission sense; avoid confusing with rope; remember historic verb usage; prefer specific types like fiber optic cable.
Common Misconceptions
- Cable equals rope or twine in all senses
- Confusing cable with a simple wire
- Using cable as a verb in modern casual speech
- Thinking cable always means internet or TV cable only
- Mixing up cable with cord for appliances
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Practice the noun senses separately (wire vs system vs data cable).
- Learn common collocations: fiber optic cable, coaxial cable, cable TV.
- Pronounce the 'ca' in cable with a long 'a' (/ˈkeɪ. bəl/).
- Remember the historic verb usage and when it might appear in formal writing.
- Compare with wire and rope to avoid false friends.
- Use visuals or real cables to cement meaning.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'cable'?
A.A type of bird found in South America
B.A thick rope or wire used for supporting or securing something
C.A sweet dessert made of layers of sponge cake and cream
D.A small insect that feeds on blood
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'cable' used in a sentence?
A.She wore a cable-knit sweater in the cold weather
B.The cable car took us to the top of the mountain
C.The squirrel jumped from tree to tree using the cable
D.The cable purred softly as she petted it
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'cable'?
A.Book
B.Rope
C.Cloud
D.Light
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of the word 'cable'?
A.Fast
B.Strong
C.Loose
D.Sharp
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you commonly encounter the word 'cable'?
A.Writing a novel
B.Cooking a gourmet meal
C.Planting a garden
D.Setting up a home entertainment system
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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