constitutional - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
constitutional Word Meanings
- related to or derived from a constitution
- pertaining to the fundamental principles of a system
- connected to the legal framework of a government
constitutional Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
constitutional Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌkɒnstɪˈtjuːʃənl/
US
/ˌkɑnstɪˈtuːʃənl/
constitutional Word Etymology
con- = with, stit- = stand, -tion = process; Latin 'constitutio' (arrangement, establishment) → Middle English; Imagine a solid foundation standing tall, like a building firmly established on its constitutional base, symbolizing stability and order.
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 hold a page and pull it toward me, then adjust the margins until the lines feel even. I shift my stance, turn the page, and keep nudging the layout until it sits in a steady frame. The act feels like tuning a small system; a quiet sense of a larger rule taking shape—constitutional in its steady backbone. When I set the final tab, the whole setup seems ready to guide the rest, not by force, but by keeping the balance.
Real Context
Constitutional is an adjective that describes things related to a constitution, the fundamental laws and principles that define how a country or organization is governed. In politics you will often hear about constitutional rights, which are protections built into the constitution, and about a constitutional framework that supports the rule of law. The term also appears in phrases like constitutional monarchy or constitutional reform, where the government’s powers are limited or defined by the constitution rather than by tradition alone. In medicine, constitutional can refer to general, system-wide symptoms. Etymologically, it comes from Latin constitutio, and in usage it signals stability, legality, and formal structure rather than mere physical strength.
Usage Reminders
- Use with rights, regimes, or frameworks; avoid medical sense unless talking about symptoms; pair with nouns like rights, framework, government; contrast with 'constitutional' vs 'constitutive'; remember pronunciation: con-sti-TU-tion-al or con-STI-tu-tion-al depending on emphasis.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing with health/fitness sense (medical use of constitutional symptoms).
- Thinking it means the constitution itself rather than relating to it.
- Assuming all constitutional systems are monarchies (only some are).
- Using 'constitutional' to mean 'established by habit' or 'traditional' (not a standard sense).
- Pronouncing with the stress on the wrong syllable (con-sti-TU-tion-al).
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Learn key collocations: constitutional rights, constitutional framework, constitutional reform.
- Distinguish from medical senses like constitutional symptoms.
- Practice pronouncing the stress: con-sti-TU-tion-al.
- Compare with related terms: constitutional vs constitutionalism, constitution, constitutional monarchy.
- Read constitutional law summaries to see formal usage.
- Listen for phrases in news about laws and governance.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'constitutional'?
A.Basic
B.Fundamental
C.Intermediate
D.Advanced
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'constitutional' correctly?
A.His constitutional to exercise is important.
B.The constitutional chair is very comfortable.
C.The new law is constitutional.
D.I don't have a constitutional to the beach.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'constitutional'?
A.Random
B.Essential
C.Temporary
D.Optional
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'constitutional'?
A.Optional
B.Insignificant
C.Informal
D.Impulsive
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario of 'constitutional'?
A.Discussing political rights in a democracy is a fundamental constitutional topic.
B.Driving a car requires careful attention.
C.Taking a breath is an important human function.
D.Eating a healthy meal leads to a good constitution.
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App