courier - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
courier Word Meanings
- a person who delivers messages or documents
- a messenger, often on a bicycle or motorcycle
- a service that delivers goods or information
courier Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
courier Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkʊəriə/
US
/ˈkʊriɚ/
courier Word Etymology
The word 'courier' comes from the Latin root 'currere' meaning 'to run'. It passed through Old French before entering English. Imagine a swift runner racing between towns, carrying vital news, embodying speed and urgency.
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
Couriers are people who deliver messages, documents, or packages. In older usage a courier was a trusted messenger who ran between towns, carrying urgent news; today the term also refers to a professional who delivers packages for a company, or to a dedicated delivery service. The plural and collective sense can refer to the person or to the service itself, as in 'courier service'. The etymology traces back to Latin currere, meaning to run, through Old French, emphasizing speed and reliability. Learners often confuse courier with carrier or messenger, and may mix up its specialized sense with generic mail or shipping terms. Use courier when you mean a person or a service known for fast delivery.
Usage Reminders
- - Use courier to refer to a person who delivers documents or packages, not as a verb.
- - You can also refer to the delivery service as 'courier service'.
- - Distinguish courier from carrier or messenger, though they are related.
- - Use courier for urgent or specialized deliveries.
- - Plural forms: couriers or courier services; the word can be attributive (courier company).
Common Misconceptions
- Courier is exactly the same as carrier or messenger, with no nuance.
- Courier always refers to a specific company or brand.
- Courier can be used as a verb but is rarely natural.
- Courier only means a person, never a service.
- A courier is only for urgent documents, not packages.
Thinking Differences
In English, courier emphasizes both the messenger and the service, with a formal tone in business contexts. Some learners think courier is only about urgent documents; actually it covers any fast delivery by a person or service. English also uses courier service as a standard compound, which is less common with other delivery terms.
Learning Tips
- Match courier with the service: you can say 'courier' for the person or the service.
- Differentiate courier from carrier and messenger by context.
- Use 'courier service' when talking about the delivery company.
- Think fast delivery, but not every delivery needs urgency.
- Form the plural as couriers, and use 'courier' as an attributive modifier (courier company).
- Practice with real-world contexts like offices, libraries, or courier apps.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'courier' mean?
A.A person who delivers messages or packages
B.A type of sandwich
C.An ancient warrior
D.A musical instrument
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct usage of the word 'courier' in a sentence.
A.She decided to become a courier after watching a movie.
B.The courier is a delicious dish served in restaurants.
C.They hired a courier to deliver the important documents.
D.He played the role of the courier in the school play.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'courier'?
A.Messenger
B.Painter
C.Architect
D.Chef
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of the word 'courier'?
A.Bystander
B.Receiver
C.Onlooker
D.Observer
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where a courier would be involved?
A.When you are waiting for your friend to arrive.
B.When someone brings food to your table.
C.When you receive a package at home.
D.When a person is tracking their online order.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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