crush - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
crush Word Meanings
- to press or squeeze with force
- a strong feeling of love or admiration
- to defeat completely
crush Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
crush Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/krʌʃ/
US
/krʌʃ/
crush Word Etymology
crush = 'crush' (verb) from Middle English 'crushen' meaning to press or destroy. Memory image: visualizing a person squeezing a soft fruit in their hand until it bursts, symbolizing how love can feel intense and overwhelming.
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 grip the bottle, push and twist, trying to crush the lid loose so the seal gives way. A crush of warmth rises when I catch their smile, my breath catching as I adjust my stance and keep it quiet. In a tight game, I push past doubt, turn the score in my favor, and feel the moment we crush the rival—the win lighting my chest. That effort and sense of control stay with me, letting the feeling of crush move from a spark into a choice I keep near.
Real Context
Crush has three main uses in English: as a verb meaning to press or squeeze with force; as a noun referring to a strong, often short‑lived feeling of love or admiration for someone; and as a verb meaning to defeat someone completely in a game or competition. Learners often mix the senses, assuming pressing something hard also conveys emotional intensity, or treating a crush as a long‑term commitment. The etymology image of squeezing a soft fruit until it bursts captures the sense of overwhelm that both physical pressure and intense emotion can create.
Usage Reminders
- Know the three main senses: physical press, infatuation, and complete defeat.
- Use crush on someone for romantic interest, and crush the opponents for a total in‑game win.
- Crush can be a noun or a verb – watch the form.
- Be careful with “crushed” in emotional contexts; it often means heartbreak.
- Pronounce /krʌʃ/ with a short u; avoid it sounding like “crushh.”
Common Misconceptions
- Crush only means pressing something physically; it also covers strong emotional attraction.
- A crush on someone means a long-lasting relationship, not just a fleeting feeling.
- Crush in sports always means a dramatic or total victory, not a small win.
- Crush is never used with like or love; use crush on for people and crush the opponent for teams.
- Crush is not a synonym for ‘crush out’ or ‘crush up’ in everyday talk.
Thinking Differences
Explain to English learners that crush spans physical action, romantic feeling, and competitive victory, so learners must map each meaning to the right context and collocations.
Learning Tips
- Make a mini glossary of crush as noun, verb, and phrasal uses.
- Practice with 'crush on' for people and 'crush the opponents' for teams.
- Use past tense forms (crushed) when describing finished events.
- Learn common collocations: crush a can, crush the opposition, have a crush.
- Record yourself pronouncing /krʌʃ/ and check for the short vowel.
- Watch for false friends in other languages translating 'crush'.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'crush'?
A.To press or squeeze something
B.A feeling of sadness
C.An outdoor adventure
D.To fly high in the sky
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'crush' used correctly?
A.She couldn't wait to crush her math test.
B.He felt a crush on his favorite book character.
C.The picnic became a great crush with friends.
D.The puppy was eager to crush the ball with its teeth.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'crush'?
A.Destroy
B.Build
C.Repair
D.Cook
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'crush'?
A.Dance
B.Decrease
C.Calm
D.Expand
Step 5: Mastery
In which situation would you most likely use the word 'crush'?
A.Stepping on a can to flatten it
B.Driving a car
C.Making juice from fruits
D.Playing a musical instrument
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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