daughter - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
daughter Word Meanings
- a female child of someone
- a girl or woman in relation to her parents
- a term for a child in a familial context
daughter Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
daughter Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈdɔːtə/
US
/ˈdɔtər/
daughter Word Etymology
daughte(r) = from root 'daug' (to nourish) + suffix '-ter'. Historical origin: Old English 'dohtor' → similar roots in Germanic languages. Memory image: A nurturing mother looking proudly at her daughter, symbolizing growth and care.
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 move a photo frame on the shelf, tilting it to catch the light. As the image shifts, the girl in the frame grows a little more real in my mind. I hold the moment, adjust my breath, and keep the memory close when I need warmth. In everyday talk, the word is spoken softly to name a place in the family.
Real Context
Daughter is a female child of someone, typically your own child. It is used to refer to a girl connected by birth or family ties, and it can also appear in broader kinship phrases like the daughter of a family, or in stories about parenting, education, and heritage. In everyday speech you say my daughter, your daughter, or the daughter of X. The term carries warmth, responsibility, and pride, and it contrasts with son as the male counterpart. While the word is clear about gender, it does not imply any particular age beyond being a child. Understanding the nuance helps learners choose the right expression in family conversations.
Usage Reminders
- Remember the pronunciation of daughter, a clear initial D sound; use my daughter for talking about your child; distinguish daughter from girl by kinship context; pair with possessives to show ownership or relationship; avoid using daughter to refer to non-relatives unless specified; practice with phrases like daughter of, eldest daughter, and daughter-in-law (note: different relation).
Common Misconceptions
- Daughter is only a young girl; age is not implied by the word itself.
- Daughter and girl can be used interchangeably in kinship contexts (they cannot).
- Daughter always refers to a biological child, not an adopted or step child (use phrases like stepdaughter).
- Daughter does not require a special title when talking about someone else's child; use politeness if appropriate.
- Daughter is not a term for women in general; it refers to a specific family relationship.
Thinking Differences
In English, kinship terms like daughter carry warmth and immediacy but are clearly bounded by family ties; many learners overgeneralize to non-relatives or confuse with girl in casual speech.
Learning Tips
- Pronounce with a soft 'th' sound at the end, not a hard t.
- Pair with possessive pronouns to show family relation (my daughter, their daughter).
- Compare with 'girl' to express age or non-family context.
- Practice phrases: daughter of, eldest daughter, daughter-in-law (note related terms).
- Use in everyday contexts like talking about parents, education, or heritage.
- Learn related kinship terms for broader conversation (son, sister, mother).
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'daughter'?
A.Female offspring
B.Cat sound
C.To cook pasta
D.Green color
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'daughter' correctly?
A.The daughter flew in the sky.
B.He painted his daughter blue.
C.She took her daughter to the vet.
D.The daughter bookshelf is full.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'daughter'?
A.Tree
B.Car
C.Son
D.Book
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'daughter'?
A.Rain
B.House
C.Father
D.Sun
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario involving a daughter?
A.The bakery sold fresh bread in the morning.
B.A student studied for exams all night.
C.The family had a picnic in the park.
D.The company organized a team-building activity.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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