constitution - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
constitution Word Meanings
- the system of fundamental principles according to which a nation is governed
- a written document that outlines a government's structure
- the physical makeup or condition of someone
constitution Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
constitution Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌkɒnstɪˈtjuːʃən/
US
/ˌkɑnstəˈtuːʃən/
constitution Word Etymology
consitution = con- (together) + stituere (to set up). Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Visualize a group of people gathering together to establish the rules for their community, much like the construction of a building representing governance.
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 place a finger on the page and move it along the line of a word I just learned: constitution. I shift my attention as I pull the word into a thought about how a country holds together. The effort feels like steering a small boat, turning and adjusting my breath and pace. When I say it aloud or place it into a real sentence, I keep that sense of balance and let the word settle into use.
Real Context
Constitution refers to the system of fundamental principles according to which a country is governed, including the distribution of powers, the protection of basic rights, and the framework for how laws are made. It can be a written document, or a broader set of laws and principles that govern a state. In everyday use, people also talk about a person's constitution, meaning their physical makeup or health. Learners often mix these senses with similar words like construction or constitutional, so it's important to notice the context: politics and law vs health or body. Common collocations include constitutional rights, constitutional monarchy, and constitutional law.
Usage Reminders
- • Distinguish constitution vs construction by context
- • Watch for phrases like constitutional rights and constitutional monarchy
- • Remember the health sense: strong/fragile constitution
- • Pronounce /ˌkɒnstɪˈtuːʃən/ clearly in formal contexts
- • Use ‘constitutional’ as a related adjective, not a synonym for ‘legal’ in every case
Common Misconceptions
- Constitution always means a written document
- Constitution is only about politics, not health
- Constitution and construction are interchangeable
- Constitution strictly refers to laws, never to rights
- Constitution is the same as government
Thinking Differences
In English, constitution is used both for a country’s legal framework and for a person’s health in rare medical contexts, but the political sense dominates everyday usage. Learners often mix it with construction or confuse constitutional with government-related terms.
Learning Tips
- Learn the three senses (law/government, document, health) with separate example sentences.
- Listen for collocations like constitutional rights and constitutional monarchy.
- Distinguish formal vs informal contexts when using the word.
- Practice with contrastive pairs from your native language.
- Check related adjectives like constitutional and legally binding.
- Read news or legal texts to see natural usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'constitution'?
A.A book
B.A government
C.A written set of rules
D.A type of food
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'constitution' correctly?
A.She loves to eat constitution.
B.The country's constitution guarantees freedom of speech.
C.I bought a constitution at the store.
D.He wore his constitution to the party.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'constitution'?
A.Far-fetched
B.Changeable
C.Flexible
D.Statute
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'constitution'?
A.Rational
B.Stability
C.Chaos
D.Function
Step 5: Mastery
How is the concept of 'constitution' applied in real-life?
A.Building a computer
B.Cooking a delicious meal
C.Climbing a mountain
D.Establishing rules for a club
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