corps - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
corps Word Meanings
- a group of people organized for a specific purpose
- the main body of a military force
- the physical body of a living being
corps Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
corps Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kɔː/
US
/kɔr/
corps Word Etymology
corps = body; French → Latin corpus (body) → English. Picture a soldier marching proudly with their unit, showcasing the strength of the collective body of troops, symbolizing unity and purpose.
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
Corps is a versatile noun with several related meanings. It can name a group of people organized for a specific purpose, such as a volunteer corps or the Peace Corps. It also designates the main body of a military force, for instance a corps within an army, highlighting unity and coordinated action. Additionally, corps can refer to the physical body of a living being in certain contexts. Learners often confuse corps with corpse (a dead body) or with core (the central part) due to pronunciation and spelling similarities. In proper names, some corps are capitalized as part of a title, while the generic term is usually lowercase. Pronounce corps like core.
Usage Reminders
- • Corps refers to a group, not an individual.
- • Capitalization depends on whether it is a proper name (Peace Corps, Marine Corps) or a generic term.
- • Pronounce corps as core; it is not like corpse.
- • Don’t use corps to mean the anatomy of a person; use body.
- • In fixed phrases, treat corps as a single unit (the diplomatic corps).
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing corps with corpse (dead body).
- Believing corps sounds like corpse in all accents.
- Thinking corps always takes a plural form (corpses).
- Assuming every use refers to military units.
- Mistaking core for corps in meaning.
Thinking Differences
English tends to keep corps as a flexible term for both groups and bodies, with a strong prosody distinction between corps and similar words like corpse or core. Learners often worry about capitalization and pronunciation, which can lead to overgeneralization or misapplication in non-proper contexts.
Learning Tips
- Practice pronouncing core vs corpse to hear the subtle difference.
- Learn the phrase 'the diplomatic corps' as a fixed expression.
- When referring to a group, test if a proper name is involved to decide capitalization.
- Remember 'corps' can mean a military unit or a volunteer group.
- Don’t use corps to mean a single person; use individual terms.
- Compare examples with body and corpse to build distinction.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'corps' mean?
A.A type of bird
B.A musical piece for a choir
C.A type of weapon
D.A group of people working together
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'corps' used correctly?
A.She played a beautiful corps on the piano.
B.The corps of the tree looked healthy.
C.I saw a corps flying in the sky.
D.The marine corps is known for its discipline.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'corps'?
A.Squad
B.Solo
C.Devour
D.Banquet
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite meaning of 'corps'?
A.Unit
B.Harmony
C.Individuals
D.Gather
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context might you hear the word 'corps'?
A.Military training
B.Art exhibition
C.Cooking class
D.Construction site
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