choir - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
choir Word Meanings
- a group of singers
- a part of a church where the choir sits
- the act of singing together
choir Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
choir Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkwaɪ.ə/
US
/ˈkwaɪ.ɚ/
choir Word Etymology
chor- = choir + -al = of the choir. Latin 'chorus' → Old French 'quor' → English 'choir'. Imagine a beautiful church with people singing harmoniously together, creating a surreal atmosphere.
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 step into the church and find the choir, eyes on the seated group as they shift into a tight circle of breath. I move closer, listening, then push a little more breath into my chest to feel the same lift in the room. The voices rise together, and I sense the space change around them, a calm pulsing through the crowd. I hold that moment, adjust my posture, and let the sound lock into a shared, bright line.
Real Context
Choir is a noun that refers to a group of singers who perform together. It can describe the ensemble itself, as in a school choir or church choir, or the act of singing as a group, e. g., they sing in harmony. In religious settings, the choir often sits in a designated area called the choir or chancel, sometimes near the organ, and may be led by a conductor. You can say you joined a choir or that the choir rehearses weekly. Learners frequently mix up choir with chorus, which can imply a larger or less formal group, and may misplace the sense of a fixed seating area.
Usage Reminders
- Use in, join a, sing in a, the choir vs a choir, the choir sits in the choir area, 'rehearse with the choir', avoid mixing with chorus, pronunciation /ˈkwaɪər/, avoid capitalization except for proper nouns, collocate with 'rehearse', 'director', 'sings in harmony'
Common Misconceptions
- Choir always means church contexts
- Chorus and choir are interchangeable
- Choir is not a group of professional singers
- The choir sits in a fixed seat every time
- People think 'choir' is pluralized as 'choires'
Thinking Differences
Choir is a specific group of singers and often implies formal repertoire and context (school, church). Learners may default to 'chorus' or think it must be religious, and may misplace the seating/location phrases. Emphasize the fixed sense of a group and its venue when present.
Learning Tips
- Listen for two key uses: the group and the act of singing together
- Practice phrases: join a choir, sing in a choir, the choir sings
- Note the fixed seat in church: the choir sits in the choir area
- Pronounce carefully: /ˈkwaɪər/
- Compare with chorus: chorus is larger or less formal
- Use with related terms: choir director, rehearsal, performance
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'choir'?
A.A musical ensemble
B.A group of animals
C.A large vehicle
D.A type of plant
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'choir' used correctly?
A.I saw a choir of lions at the zoo.
B.She drove a choir to school every day.
C.He watered the choir in the garden.
D.The choir sang beautifully at the concert.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a synonym for 'choir'?
A.Band
B.Solo
C.Chorus
D.Orchestra
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'choir'?
A.Solo
B.Silence
C.Group
D.Crowd
Step 5: Mastery
Where is a common place to find a choir performing?
A.Library
B.Hospital
C.Beach
D.Church
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App