condiment - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
condiment Word Meanings
- a substance used to add flavor to food
- a substance such as sauce or seasoning
- something that enhances the taste of food
condiment Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
condiment Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkɒndɪmənt/
US
/ˈkɑːndɪmənt/
condiment Word Etymology
con- = with, dīment- = to season (from Latin condīmentum); Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a chef skillfully mixing spices to create the perfect blend that enhances the meal's flavors.
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
Condiment is a broad term for any substance added to food to enhance its flavor. It covers sauces, dressings, relishes, pickles, and other seasonings that appear at the table or during cooking. In English you can say 'a condiment' for one item and 'condiments' for more than one. Different cuisines rely on condiments to finish a dish or to give it a distinctive touch, while others emphasize core ingredients. Learners often confuse condiment with spice or seasoning, assuming all condiments are bottled sauces. In reality, condiments include pastes, dips, pickles, and fermented accompaniments as well.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: condensations; 1) Condiment is a category and can be countable or uncountable. 2) Use singular with one item: a condiment; plural for many: condiments. 3) Not all condiments are sauces. 4) Compare with seasoning and spice. 5) Place on the table or in cooking as needed.
Common Misconceptions
- Condiment equals spice or seasoning; they are the same thing.
- Condiment must be a bottled sauce sold in supermarkets.
- Every culture uses condiments in the same way.
- Condiments are only added at the table, never during cooking.
- Condiments are always salty or sweet sauces.
Thinking Differences
Ln in English, condiment is a broad, flexible term that people use for any addition that enhances flavor; learners misjudge its scope and often picture only bottled sauces.
Learning Tips
- Note that condiment is a broad category, not just a bottle sauce.
- Keep a mental bundle: sauces, pastes, pickles, and relishes all count.
- Differentiate condiment from seasoning and spice in context.
- Use singular with one item: a condiment; plural for several: condiments.
- Check that you can use 'condiments on the table' or 'condiments during cooking.'
- Practice with cultural examples from cuisines you enjoy.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'condiment'?
A.A seasoning or sauce
B.A type of fruit
C.A musical instrument
D.A clothing item
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is the word 'condiment' used correctly?
A.She played the condiment beautifully on the piano.
B.The condiment hat looked stylish on her head.
C.The condiment tree bore delicious fruits.
D.He added some salt and pepper as a condiment to his meal.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following words is most similar to 'condiment'?
A.Dessert
B.Beverage
C.Main course
D.Spice
Step 4: Opposite Words
In a real-life context, how do people commonly use condiments?
A.As toppings for ice cream
B.As main dishes
C.To decorate cakes
D.To season and enhance the flavor of food
Step 5: Mastery
Take a moment to reflect on the importance of condiments in everyday cooking.
A.Recite a recipe using condiments
B.Express your thoughts aloud
C.Think about your favorite condiments
D.Describe a memorable meal with condiments
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