children - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
children Word Meanings
- A young human who is not yet an adult.
- One's offspring or descendants.
- A group of young people or the younger generation.
children Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
children Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈtʃɪl.dɹən/
US
/ˈtʃɪl.dɹən/
children Word Etymology
Root decomposition: base form is child; the plural is irregular, historically formed with the suffix -ren. Historical origin: from Old English cild; early plural cildru; Middle English settled on the modern form children. Memory image: imagine one child turning into a small family tree, with many branches each becoming another child.
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
Plural of child is irregular and takes the form children; it can mean one’s offspring, a group of young people, or the younger generation, and is used with plural or singular verbs depending on whether the group is treated as individuals or as a unit. In everyday English you will hear about children in family life, schooling, or social policy, and you may see phrases like children’s rights or the children of immigrants. Remember that children is never used for adults, and the singular child is not normally used to refer to a group. The word can refer to both boys and girls, or to mixed genders, and the pronunciation remains /ˈtʃɪldrən/.
Usage Reminders
- - The word is plural; use with a plural verb when talking about multiple people.
- - Do not add -s to form a plural: the correct form is 'children'.
- - Use for both offspring and groups of youths or the younger generation.
- - Distinguish from the singular 'child' when talking about one person.
- - Remember it refers to people, not to adults in general unless the sense is metaphorical.
Common Misconceptions
- Think 'children' is the plural of 'child' from a rule like add -s to form plurals.
- Confuse 'children' with 'kid' or 'kids' in informal speech.
- Assume 'children' can be used to refer to adults in a collective sense.
- Mistakenly write 'childs' as the plural.
- Ignore that 'children' can be treated as individuals or as a group with different verbs.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, focus on the irregular plural and the contexts that require plural verbs when the group is treated as individuals versus as a unit.
Learning Tips
- Practice the pronunciation /ˈtʃɪldrən/ and listen for the vowel and r-coloring.
- Memorize that the plural is not formed with -s; remember 'children'.
- Pair with both family contexts and school contexts to see different uses.
- Always contrast with the singular 'child' to avoid mistakes.
- Learn common collocations like children's rights and the children of …
- Read with authentic materials about families, education, and policy.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of the word 'children'?
A.An elderly person's period of life
B.A type of plant
C.Young humans who are not yet adults
D.An action of running
Step 2: Usage
Identify the correct usage of the word 'children' in a sentence.
A.Children can drive cars at the age of ten.
B.Children love to play outside during the day.
C.Children are commonly found in grocery stores shopping for groceries.
D.Children prefer to sleep all day.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'children'?
A.teens
B.adults
C.pets
D.animals
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'children'?
A.teens
B.elders
C.youth
D.toddlers
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where the word 'children' is relevant?
A.Many young people enjoy sports during their free time.
B.A group of friends went to a concert.
C.Parents often consider activities suitable for their offspring.
D.Teachers plan lessons that engage their young students.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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