cherish - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
cherish Word Meanings
- to hold something dear
- to take care of something fondly
- to value something highly
cherish Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
cherish Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈtʃɛrɪʃ/
US
/ˈtʃɛrɪʃ/
cherish Word Etymology
cherish: cher- (to hold) + ish (pertaining to quality) from Old French 'cherir' from Latin 'carus' (dear). Imagine holding a precious object close to your heart, embodying love and warmth.
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
To cherish something or someone is to treat them as precious and worth protecting, even when things get difficult. In everyday English you might say you cherish a friendship, a family heirloom, or the memories of a special trip. The verb carries a warmth and tenderness beyond simple appreciation: it implies active care, nurture, and a lasting emotional investment. Learners often confuse it with 'value' or 'appreciate,' but cherish suggests a deeper, sentimental bond and an intention to safeguard what matters. The phrase can be used about people, objects, values, or memories, and it often collocates with adjectives like 'dear' or phrases such as 'hold dear.'
Usage Reminders
- Use cherish for strong emotional bonds with people or memories
- Not interchangeable with every case of 'value' or 'appreciate'
- Often follows or pairs with dear or hold dear
- Useful for long-lasting, nurturing feelings rather than quick admiration
- Works with objects you care for emotionally, not just practically valuable items
Common Misconceptions
- Cherish = always about material value or price
- Cherish = same as 'like a lot' in casual praise
- Confuse with 'appreciate' in every context
- Only used for people, not memories or objects
- Can be used in present or past without nuance
Thinking Differences
Cherish in English emphasizes deep emotional attachment and protective warmth; learners should note it goes beyond simple liking and often collocates with 'dear' objects or people and 'hold dear'.
Learning Tips
- Note difference between cherish and value/appreciate
- Use cherish with people, memories, or heirlooms
- Pair with dear or hold dear for emphasis
- Avoid overusing in casual praise
- Think of long-term emotional bond, not just liking
- Practice with sentences about family or memories
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'cherish'?
A.Run fast
B.Value deeply
C.Sleep late
D.Eat dinner
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'cherish' used correctly?
A.She ran quickly to cherish the bus.
B.I cherish the opportunity to wake up early.
C.He ate pizza to cherish his energy.
D.They cherish the delicious candy.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'cherish'?
A.Despise
B.Treasure
C.Abandon
D.Ignore
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'cherish'?
A.Hate
B.Forget
C.Dislike
D.Neglect
Step 5: Mastery
How would you apply 'cherish' in a real-life context?
A.When talking about a favorite childhood memory
B.When discussing something you dislike
C.When describing a boring task
D.When explaining a new hobby
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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