declare - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
declare Word Meanings
- to state something formally
- to announce officially
- to reveal or make known
declare Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
declare Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈkleə/
US
/dɪˈklɛr/
declare Word Etymology
de- = down, clear = to make clear. Latin 'declarare' → Old French 'declarer' → English. Imagine a person standing on a podium, confidently declaring their ideas to an enthusiastic crowd.
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 pause, square my shoulders, and set the notebook there where I can see it. I move the pen to a clean line and pull my thoughts into one moment. The effort of guiding my voice into a formal moment tightens my chest and steadies my hand. When I speak, I declare what I want to share, letting the words settle in the room and in what is known.
Real Context
Declare means to state something formally or officially, often with authority or public announcement. You declare a policy, a verdict, or intent; you can declare that something is true or that you intend to do something. It conveys formality and seriousness more than merely stating. It is used in legal or governmental contexts, in statements that have consequences, and with 'that' clauses: The government declared that a state of emergency had been declared, or she declared her candidacy publicly. It can also mean reveal or make known, as in declare a secret. Note that declare is different from announce (less formal) and proclaim (stronger). Imagining a speaker on a podium helps keep the sense of formality.
Usage Reminders
- Use for formal statements only
- Reserve for official policies or decisions
- Follow with that clauses when needed
- Know common collocations: declare war, declare independence, declare bankruptcy, declare intent, declare results, declare a policy
- Use passive form: has been declared, was declared, declaring
- Practice with legal/government texts
Common Misconceptions
- Think declare is only for dramatic public statements
- Assume it can replace announce in casual updates
- Confuse with state or say when the tone is informal
- Believe it always implies revealing a secret
- Use declare with everyday opinions instead of official actions
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Note formality level and pick contexts like policy and law
- Compare with announce and state to choose tone
- Practice with that clauses after declare
- Learn key collocations: declare war, declare independence, declare bankruptcy, declare intent, declare policy, declare victory
- Use passive forms: has been declared, was declared
- Read official documents to see natural usage
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct way to use 'declare' in a sentence.
A.He declared his love for her in front of everyone.
B.She was declared in the dark about the surprise party.
C.They declared the key to the case.
D.The teacher declared the assignment.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'declare'?
A.Question
B.Announce
C.Avoid
D.Conceal
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'declare'?
A.Deny
B.Reveal
C.Hide
D.Conceal
Step 5: Mastery
In a legal setting, what might a judge do with a motion to declare a mistrial?
A.Postpone it
B.Ignore it
C.Approve it
D.Deny it
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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