cord - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
cord Word Meanings
- A long, thin, flexible material used for tying or binding things together.
- A string or rope.
- An electrical wire.
cord Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
cord Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kɔːd/
US
/kɔrd/
cord Word Etymology
cord = cor- (from Latin 'cor', meaning 'heart') + -d (from Latin 'dare', meaning 'to give'). Historically, it evolved from Latin to Old French and then to English. Imagine a heart string tying something together, symbolizing connection.
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
Cord is a long, thin, flexible material used for tying or binding things together; a string or rope; and an electrical wire. In everyday use, cord tends to be thinner than rope and is chosen for quick, lightweight tying or for supplying power to devices through electrical cords. Rope, by contrast, is thicker and stronger, designed for demanding work like climbing or hauling; line refers to a lighter, thinner strand used in sailing or fishing. There are a few idiomatic uses beyond its literal sense, but many are rare in modern speech. Learners should be mindful of common collocations like power cord, lamp cord, and cords used for devices, and distinguish cord from similar terms.
Usage Reminders
- Use cord for thin, flexible ties or electrical cords.
- Distinguish cord (thin) from rope (thick) and line (lighter or for sails).
- Be aware of common phrases: power cord, lamp cord, device cords.
- Don’t confuse cord with chord (musical term).
- Plurals: cord, cords (remember wood-measure term 'cord').
Common Misconceptions
- Cord is always thick like rope.
- Cord and rope are interchangeable.
- Cord never refers to a wire.
- Cord cannot be pluralized.
- Cord and chord are the same word.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: cord is a generic term for a thin, flexible tying material or a power cable, not a thick rope; emphasis on context for the best choice of word.
Learning Tips
- Learn the three main senses: tying material, string/cord, and electrical cord.
- Practice distinguishing cord from rope by thickness and use.
- Note common collocations: power cord, lamp cord, device cords.
- Watch for false friends like chord (musical term).
- Remember cord can be plural (cords) and can appear in measurement (a cord of wood).
- Use real-world objects to describe with cord and avoid generic 'rope' for electronics.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'cord'?
A.A small insect
B.A thick rope or strand
C.A type of pasta
D.A colorful bird
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'cord' used correctly?
A.The red cord flew high in the sky.
B.I saw a cord jumping on the street.
C.He tied the packages together with a strong cord.
D.She cooked a delicious cord for dinner.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an opposite of 'cord'?
A.Thread
B.Wire
C.Twine
D.Nylon
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life context would you find a 'cord'?
A.At a bakery
B.During rock climbing
C.In a library
D.On a farm
Step 5: Mastery
Reflect on a situation where you might need a 'cord'.
A.Playing soccer
B.Painting a picture
C.Fixing a broken chair
D.Reading a book
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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