compound - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
compound Word Meanings
- a thing that is composed of two or more separate elements
- to combine substances or elements
- in finance, interest calculated on both the initial principal and the accumulated interest
compound Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
compound Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkəm.paʊnd/
US
/ˈkɑːm.paʊnd/
compound Word Etymology
com- + pound; 'com-' means together, 'pound' means to put/place. Derived from Latin 'componere', meaning to put together. Imagine mixing different colors of paint to create a new shade, highlighting the essence of combining different elements.
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 lift two blocks and move them toward each other. I push, twist my wrists, and adjust my grip until they click into a single compound in my hands. The moment stays steady as I hold it, feeling the shift from loose pieces to a unified whole. Later, I notice the same move when two ideas blend, or when money grows by adding interest, turning effort into something real.
Real Context
Compound is a versatile word in English. As a noun, it refers to something that is made up of two or more components, like a chemical compound or a living area within a campus. As a verb, it means to combine or merge things, often with the sense of increasing complexity or number, as in to compound your problems. In finance, compound interest is calculated on both the original principal and the accumulated interest, causing growth over time. Learners often confuse compound with blend or mix, so focus on the idea of elements joined into a single unit, and watch for tense and collocations such as compound sentence and compound word.
Usage Reminders
- Remember the two main senses: noun = a thing made of parts; verb = to join or merge.
- Watch for common phrases: compound sentence, compound word, compound interest.
- Don’t confuse with blend or mix; context matters.
- In finance, think of growth on both principal and interest.
- Practice by making your own compound sentences and noting how the meaning shifts with context.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing compound with blend or mix when elements are not actually being joined into a single unit
- Thinking compound always refers to a chemical substance
- Using compound to mean simple addition rather than combining elements
- Mistaking compound interest for simple interest
- Forgetting compound can describe both a noun (thing) and a verb (to merge)
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Study noun and verb forms separately
- Make mini glossaries for compound phrases
- Practice with everyday objects that are composites
- Create sentences using compound sentence and compound word
- Learn the finance sense as a fixed collocation
- Check collocations with 'compound' in corpora
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'compound'?
A.A building
B.A city
C.A number
D.A mixture
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'compound' used correctly?
A.She went to compound yesterday.
B.I have an apple compound.
C.The compound was surrounded by a high wall.
D.Please compound the door.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'compound'?
A.Simple
B.Complex
C.Separate
D.Single
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'compound'?
A.Mix
B.Combine
C.Merge
D.Separate
Step 5: Mastery
How is the concept of 'compound' relevant in chemistry?
A.It refers to a type of building structure.
B.It is a term used in economics.
C.It describes a mixture of elements or compounds.
D.It is related to sports.
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