carnivorous - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
carnivorous Word Meanings
- feeding on other animals
- meat-eating
- having a diet that primarily consists of flesh
carnivorous Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
carnivorous Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kɑːˈnɪv.ər.əs/
US
/kɑːrˈnɪv.ɚ.əs/
carnivorous Word Etymology
Root: 'carni-' (meat) + 'vorous' (eating). Historical origin: Latin 'carnivorus' → Old French → English. Memory image: Picture a lion hunting in the savanna, a perfect embodiment of the carnivore's lifestyle, feasting on a fresh kill.
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
Carnivorous is an adjective used to describe diets or animals that feed on other animals. It contrasts with herbivorous and omnivorous, and is often applied to meat-eating predators such as lions, wolves, and eagles, as well as to carnivorous plants that obtain nutrients from captured prey. The word derives from Latin carni- meaning meat and vorous meaning eating; in English it is commonly followed by nouns like 'animal,' 'diet,' or 'habits,' but it can also describe behavior, such as a carnivorous appetite. When learning, remember that 'carnivorous' emphasizes the act of eating flesh, not the moral value of the eater.
Usage Reminders
- Carnivorous describes a diet or animal that eats other animals.
- It is commonly used with nouns like diet, animal, or plant.
- Do not apply to humans in ordinary contexts.
- It contrasts with herbivorous and omnivorous.
- It is an adjective, not a noun.
Common Misconceptions
- Refers to cruelty or savagery (it does not; it simply means eating meat).
- Describes people in ordinary contexts (usually not used for people).
- All carnivorous animals eat only meat (some eat other things occasionally).
- Confused with the noun 'carnivore' (the noun is the eater; the adjective describes the diet).
- Directly translating to 'meat-eating' can be fine, but 'carnivorous' is more precise.
Thinking Differences
This concept is straightforward for English speakers: carnivorous is an objective trait describing diet. Learners often confuse it with the noun carnivore or with moral judgments about eating meat.
Learning Tips
- Associate carnivorous with explicit phrases like carnivorous diet and carnivorous animal.
- Compare with herbivorous and omnivorous to build contrast.
- Note that it describes diet, not people.
- Use in formal writing to sound precise.
- Watch documentaries or read biology texts to see authentic usage.
- Practice with both animals and plants described as carnivorous.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'carnivorous' mean?
A.Eating both plants and animals
B.Eating only meat
C.Eating only plants
D.Digging holes in the ground
Step 2: Usage
How is 'carnivorous' used in a sentence?
A.Many plants are carnivorous and thrive in sunlight.
B.The lion is a carnivorous animal that hunts for food.
C.She prefers a carnivorous diet that includes fruits and vegetables.
D.His carnivorous taste in music includes only classical.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'carnivorous'?
A.Herbivorous
B.Predatory
C.Nutritional
D.Vegetative
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'carnivorous'?
A.Fastidious
B.Omnivorous
C.Herbivorous
D.Frugal
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context for 'carnivorous'?
A.In nature, a carnivorous animal typically hunts its prey.
B.Some dogs are known to be strict herbivores and refuse meat.
C.Many cars are designed to be fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly.
D.A diet high in meat is often categorized as vegetarian.
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App