curfew - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
curfew Word Meanings
- a regulation requiring people to be indoors at a certain time
- a time limitation imposed on the freedom of movement
- a restriction often for safety reasons
curfew Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
curfew Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkɜːfjuː/
US
/ˈkɜrfju/
curfew Word Etymology
Root: 'curfew' comes from 'couvre-feu' (French), meaning 'cover fire', historically referring to the time when people were required to extinguish their fires to prevent house fires. Memory image: Imagine a quaint medieval village where townsfolk cover their flames as the sun sets, a protective ritual guiding them indoors.
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
Curfew is a rule that limits when people may be outside their homes, typically set by authorities during emergencies or security threats. It usually requires people to stay indoors after a defined hour and may carry penalties if violated. The idea is safety-oriented, not punitive, and it can apply to everyone or just specific groups like minors. In everyday use, you might hear about a 'curfew' for a city after a riot or for a school event, or a parental curfew in families. The word carries a practical, time-bound sense rather than a moral judgment.
Usage Reminders
- Use curfew for time-bound outdoor restrictions.
- Differentiate from lockdowns and travel bans.
- Often newsworthy in emergencies.
- Can be city-wide or targeted (e. g., minors).
- Pair with prepositions like 'after' or 'until'.
- Not a moral judgment, but a safety rule.
Common Misconceptions
- A curfew is a moral judgment about a person or group.
- It means you can never go outside, ever.
- A curfew is the same as a lockdown or a travel ban.
- Only criminals or disobedient teenagers face a curfew.
- Government curfews require a court order in every case.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- memorize core meanings and common collocations
- note time expressions like 'after 9 p. m.' or 'overnight'
- distinguish curfew from lockdown or travel ban
- practice both city-wide and parental curfew contexts
- listen to news reports to hear real usage
- write a short dialogue using curfew in different settings
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of the word 'curfew'?
A.A time by which people must return home
B.A type of fruit
C.An educational program
D.A musical instrument
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'curfew' correctly?
A.The curfew bell rang at midnight.
B.He played the guitar until curfew was over.
C.She set a curfew for her plants to grow.
D.They discussed the curfew while cooking dinner.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'curfew'?
A.Open
B.Freedom
C.Limit
D.Escape
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'curfew'?
A.Freedom
B.Control
C.Restriction
D.Time
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario related to the word 'curfew'?
A.The police enforced a curfew during the festival for safety.
B.Everyone was free to come and go as they pleased at the party.
C.The children were allowed to stay out all night without any rules.
D.People celebrated their newfound freedom after the event.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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