communicate - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
communicate Word Meanings
- to share information or ideas with someone
- to convey thoughts or feelings
- to interact with others through speech or writing
communicate Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
communicate Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kəˈmjʊ.nɪ.keɪt/
US
/kəˈmjunɪˌkeɪt/
communicate Word Etymology
com- = together + municate = to make common; Latin 'communicare' → Old French 'comuniquer' → English. Imagine two people sitting together, sharing their thoughts freely, making their ideas common.
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
First I lean in and open my mouth, hands steady as I choose my words. I push air and ideas out, watching the other person respond and shift their own thoughts. I adjust my tone and pace, keeping eye contact to show I am listening. Communication happens in that back-and-forth, a felt change from inside to outside.
Real Context
Communicate means more than simply talking. It involves sharing information, ideas, or feelings in a way that others can understand, and it typically requires listening as well as speaking. You communicate when you explain a plan, respond to questions, or write a clear email. The word covers both sending a message and ensuring it was received and understood. In everyday life, you communicate with friends, coworkers, or customers. It is commonly paired with with, to, or through; you convey meaning through words, tone, body language, or digital channels, and feedback completes the cycle of understanding.
Usage Reminders
- Use 'communicate with' someone; use 'communicate a message/idea/feeling'; pair with 'clearly' or 'effectively'; contrast with 'talk' for casual speech; include channels: 'via email/phone/video'; check that the listener understood (feedback).
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing 'communicate' with simply 'talk' or 'speak' instead of the bidirectional, content-focused sense.
- Thinking it only applies to spoken language; writing or digital messages are equally part of communication.
- Using the preposition wrong: 'communicate to' someone instead of 'communicate with' someone sometimes.
- Seeing it as formal or rare; everyday messages also require effective communication.
- Mixing up 'convey' with 'communicate' or using 'transmit' in contexts that call for relational exchange.
Thinking Differences
In English, communicate covers both sending a message and ensuring understanding; learners often confuse it with 'talk' or 'speak', or overlook the need for feedback and channel choice.
Learning Tips
- Practice with both speaking and writing tasks to reinforce the two-way nature of communication.
- Study common collocations: communicate with, communicate a message, communicate clearly.
- Use real-life channels (email, chat, phone) to practice channel variation.
- Compare with related verbs like convey, transmit, discuss to understand nuance.
- Record yourself explaining a plan and seek feedback to improve clarity.
- Watch or read examples in context and note preposition use and tone.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'communicate' correctly?
A.The teacher communicated the lesson by drawing on the blackboard.
B.She communicated the message with a loud dance routine.
C.He tried to communicate with his cat by meowing at it.
D.They communicated their feelings through a game of chess.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'communicate'?
A.Conceal
B.Express
C.Isolate
D.Destroy
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'communicate'?
A.Listen
B.Avoid
C.Hide
D.Argue
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario of 'communicate'?
A.Two friends talking on the phone
B.Playing a video game alone
C.Eating a meal in silence
D.Walking in the park
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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