dedicate - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
dedicate Word Meanings
- to commit to a purpose or task
- to set apart for a specific use
- to honor someone with a work or action
dedicate Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
dedicate Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈdɛd.ɪ.keɪt/
US
/ˈdɛd.ɪ.keɪt/
dedicate Word Etymology
de- = away from, dicare = to proclaim. Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a statue being unveiled (proclaimed) far from the crowd, symbolizing dedication.
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
Dedicate means to commit yourself or something to a purpose, to set aside time or resources for a specific use, or to honor someone with a work or action. In everyday English we say 'dedicate yourself to a goal', 'dedicate a room to a project', or 'dedicate a book to someone'. The verb often carries a voluntary, deliberate sense of focus rather than mere attention. Its etymology traces to Latin de- (away) and dicare (to proclaim), moving through Old French into English; the image is of proclaiming a purpose or unveiling something for others to see, which helps explain why we speak of devotion, ceremonies, or formal inscriptions when we dedicate something.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Use 'dedicate to' with a person or a goal. 2) Use 'dedicate A to B' to show A is reserved for B. 3) Reserve the formal sense for inscriptions and ceremonies. 4) Don’t confuse with 'devote' when the nuance is long-term commitment rather than warmth or zeal. 5) Prepositions matter: to (goal/ person), for (occasion optional). 6) In titles or dedications, 'dedicate' can imply public recognition.
Common Misconceptions
- It always has to be religious or ceremonial.
- Dedicate and devote are interchangeable in all cases.
- You must invest extreme sacrifice to use dedicate.
- It only means giving a speech or writing a dedication line.
- Prepositions are not important with this verb.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, dedication often carries a proactive, ongoing commitment and can apply to people, tasks, or spaces. It’s common to pair with 'to' and to distinguish it from devotional or religious senses. Learners may over- or under-use it depending on whether they mean a temporary focus or a long-term allocation.
Learning Tips
- Identify the three main uses: commitment, allocation, and homage.
- Use dedication with to for goals and people (dedicate to someone).
- Practice 'dedicate A to B' to show A is earmarked for B.
- Compare with devote to feel the nuance: long-term focus vs enthusiasm.
- Reserve the formal sense for inscriptions and ceremonies.
- Create your own sentences to solidify preposition choices.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'dedicate' mean?
A.To ignore
B.To praise
C.To commit to a specific purpose
D.To criticize
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'dedicate' used correctly?
A.She decided to skip classes and dedicate more time to study.
B.He dedicate his free time to watching TV.
C.They dedicate the new library to the memory of a famous writer.
D.The artist didn't dedicate much effort to his latest painting.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which is a synonym for 'dedicate'?
A.Abandon
B.Neglect
C.Devote
D.Reject
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'dedicate'?
A.Ignore
B.Praise
C.Critique
D.Reserve
Step 5: Mastery
How is 'dedicate' applied in real-life?
A.Volunteering regularly to help a local charity
B.Studying diligently for upcoming exams
C.Building a monument in honor of an important historical figure
D.Setting aside time to practice a musical instrument
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