convulse - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
convulse Word Meanings
- to shake or agitate violently
- to undergo sudden involuntary muscle contractions
- to cause distress or turmoil
convulse Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
convulse Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kənˈvʌls/
US
/kənˈvʌls/
convulse Word Etymology
(con- ‘together’ + -vulse ‘to pull’). Originated from Latin 'convulsus', passed through Old French before entering English. Imagine a puppet being yanked forcibly, its strings convulsing as it's manipulated, symbolizing the violent shaking inherent in the word.
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
Convulse means to shake violently or to experience sudden, involuntary muscle contractions; it can describe a physical seizure, but it is also used metaphorically to describe intense distress or upheaval. The verb can be transitive ('to convulse a nation') or intransitive ('the body convulses'). Common collocations include convulse violently, convulse with laughter, and convulsive movements. In medical contexts you’ll often see phrases like convulsive seizures or convulsions. Be mindful of the distinction between bodily convulsions and larger social or emotional turmoil, which English speakers may convey with phrases like 'the country was convulsed by protests' or 'she convulsed with grief.'
Usage Reminders
- Watch for physical vs. metaphorical use
- Use transitive vs. intransitive forms appropriately
- Don’t confuse with similar-sounding verbs
- Note common collocations like convulse violently or with laughter
- Be clear about who is convulsing vs who is convulsing something else
- Remember medical context often uses convulsive seizures
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing convulse with convince (sound-alike)
- Thinking it only refers to medical seizures
- Using convulse to describe calm situations
- Confusing convulse with evolve in metaphorical contexts
- Forgetting it can be transitive or intransitive
Thinking Differences
In English, convulse covers both medical and figurative senses; learners often need to notice when a metaphorical use is appropriate versus a literal one.
Learning Tips
- Learn core senses: physical convulsions vs. social upheaval
- Note transitivity: who is convulsing or what is convulsing
- Memorize common collocations (convulse violently, convulse with laughter)
- Practice distinguishing medical phrases (convulsive seizures)
- Use metaphor in context (the country convulsed by protests)
- Avoid near-homophones like convince or evolve
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'convulse' mean?
A.To shake violently
B.To walk slowly
C.To whisper softly
D.To read a book
Step 2: Usage
Identify the correct usage of 'convulse' in a sentence.
A.The earthquake caused the ground to convulse violently.
B.She tried to convulse the ball into the goal.
C.He managed to convulse a response from the audience.
D.The child began to convulse with laughter during the funny movie.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following words is most similar to 'convulse'?
A.Tremble
B.Sit
C.Smile
D.Skip
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'convulse'?
A.Stabilize
B.Shake
C.Wobble
D.Bounce
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where a person might convulse?
A.Her body began to convulse after the seizure.
B.The sudden loud noise made the audience jump in surprise.
C.After receiving medical help, the patient stopped shaking uncontrollably.
D.During the presentation, she felt nervous and couldn't stop shaking.
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