concrete - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
concrete Word Meanings
- solid and tangible; real
- a building material made of cement, gravel, and water
- specific or detailed
concrete Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
concrete Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkɒnkriːt/
US
/ˈkɑːnkriːt/
concrete Word Etymology
Concrete: con- = together + crete = to grow/make. Origin: Latin 'concretus' → Old French 'concret' → English. Imagine pouring wet concrete into a mold that solidifies, creating a tangible structure.
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 press my fingers to a cold, hard slab of concrete and feel it answer with a steady, unyielding weight. I shift my grip, push and pull, and watch how the surface holds as I adjust my stance for the task ahead. The room seems to tighten around the block, and I ride that solid presence until I know where to keep it. When I set it in place, the scene settles—not a word about meaning, just the feel of something real under my hands.
Real Context
Concrete is a word that often puzzles learners because it has two related yet distinct senses. As a noun it names the building material made from cement, gravel, and water, which you can pour, mold, and see as a solid structure. As an adjective it describes something solid, real, and tangible rather than abstract or theoretical. In everyday English you can say concrete evidence, concrete plans, or concrete examples to make a point clearer. The word also appears in phrases like concrete jungle or concrete reality, emphasizing nonabstract realities. Pronunciation typically stresses the first syllable, with minor regional vowel differences between British and American English.
Usage Reminders
- Use as a noun for the material; use as an adjective for tangible ideas; pair with concrete evidence or a concrete example; contrast with abstract and intangible; remember the adverb is concretely, not concrete-ly; check collocations like concrete plan or concrete result.
Common Misconceptions
- Concrete always means tangible reality; it can also describe evidence or plans.
- Confusing 'concrete' with 'real' in all contexts.
- Using 'concretely' before a noun is correct; it is not.
- Treating concrete as only a building material and not a concept.
- Neglecting the collocations like concrete evidence or concrete example.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Remember both material and conceptual senses are correct.
- Practice with concrete evidence vs abstract ideas.
- Use concrete examples to illustrate points.
- Don't mix up concrete with concrete-ness vs concretely.
- Learn common collocations: concrete plan, concrete evidence, concrete result.
- Listen for pronunciation differences between American and British English.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'concrete'?
A.Gas
B.Liquid
C.Plasma
D.Solid
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'concrete' used correctly?
A.She had a concrete plan for the project.
B.He poured concrete into the glass.
C.The teacher gave a concrete explanation.
D.The cat chased a concrete ball.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'concrete'?
A.Fictional
B.Abstract
C.Vague
D.Real
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'concrete'?
A.Textual
B.Tangible
C.Imaginary
D.Physical
Step 5: Mastery
In what situation would you encounter 'concrete'?
A.Mixing ingredients in a recipe
B.Building a house
C.Writing a poem
D.Studying a map
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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