cement - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
cement Word Meanings
- a substance used to make concrete
- to fix or bond something together
- a type of glue or adhesive
cement Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
cement Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/sɪˈmɛnt/
US
/sɪˈmɛnt/
cement Word Etymology
The term 'cement' derives from 'caementum,' Latin for 'stone' or 'cut stone'. It transitioned through Old French to Middle English. Imagine a stone being broken down, then ground into dust, and mixed with water to bond and create solid structures.
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
Cement is a fine, powdery binding material that, when mixed with water, hydrates and hardens to bond different substances together. As a noun it refers to the binding powder used in construction, often forming concrete when combined with sand and aggregates. As a verb, to cement something means to fix, secure, or reinforce it, and you may hear the phrase cement a relationship in a figurative sense. In modern practice cement is a key component of concrete, produced by calcining limestone with clay or other minerals. In everyday language, cement is sometimes used loosely for concrete or glue, but technically cement is the binder, not the aggregate.
Usage Reminders
- Use cement to join concrete or masonry that is clean, dry, and properly prepared.
- Distinguish cement (the binder) from concrete (the mix) and from glue.
- Wear gloves and eye protection when handling dry cement powder.
- The verb cemented is common in phrases like cement a plan or a relationship.
- Cement is a binder; the word concrete refers to the full mix of cement, sand, gravel, and water.
Common Misconceptions
- Cement = concrete in common speech
- Cement is the same as glue or adhesive
- Cement is a liquid when mixed with water
- Concrete is just cement with water
- To cement something always means to glue it together
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Learn the difference between cement and concrete with visual examples
- Practice the verb cement in sentences about fixing or sealing
- Associate cement with binding and glue-like function
- Notice collocations: cement a plan, cement a relationship
- Read construction contexts to see technical vs metaphorical uses
- Use flashcards for pronunciation of cement vs concrete
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'cement'?
A.A strong building material
B.A type of food
C.A musical instrument
D.A mode of transportation
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'cement' correctly?
A.The workers used cement to build the foundation.
B.She played the cement beautifully.
C.Let's listen to the cement playing.
D.He traveled to the store in a cement.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'cement'?
A.Water
B.Concrete
C.Sand
D.Wood
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'cement'?
A.Soft
B.Weak
C.Loose
D.Fragile
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you find 'cement' being used?
A.Building a house
B.Baking a cake
C.Driving a car
D.Flying a plane
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