degrees - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
degrees Word Meanings
- a unit of measurement in mathematics or temperature
- an academic title conferred by a college or university
- a stage in a scale of intensity or amount
degrees Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
degrees Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈɡriː/
US
/dɪˈɡri/
degrees Word Etymology
de- = from, gradi = step; Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Image: Picture a staircase where each step represents a different degree of elevation or accomplishment, illustrating levels of learning or temperature.
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
With a slow breath, I set my coffee cup on the desk and let the steam rise. I move my attention from rough notes to the page, adjusting my grip and tempo as I push through a new task. The degree of focus grows as I hold steady, and the feeling of control shifts with each small turn I make.
Real Context
Degree is a flexible word with three common meanings. First, a degree is a unit in math and temperature: you measure angles in degrees and temperatures in Celsius or Fahrenheit. Second, a degree is an academic credential issued by a college or university after completing a program, such as a bachelor's degree or a master's degree. Third, a degree can describe a level or amount on a scale, as in degrees of intensity, certainty, or heat. Because language learners often confuse these senses, it's helpful to look for contextual clues like articles (a degree, degrees) and collocations (temperature in degrees, degree of certainty).
Usage Reminders
- Degree has three main senses: temperature/angle, academic credential, and level on a scale.
- Use 'a degree in X' for diplomas; don't say 'a degree X'.
- Temperature and angles use 'degrees' (degrees Celsius/Fahrenheit).
- Common phrases include 'degree of' + noun (e. g., degree of certainty).
- Be aware of false friends in other languages and check context.
Common Misconceptions
- Degree refers only to temperature.
- Degree and degree of something are always interchangeable.
- You can say 'a degree biology' for a field of study.
- Degrees Celsius and degrees Fahrenheit are the same in all contexts.
- Degree is never used to describe intensity or level.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker that degree is not interchangeable across senses; learners often default to temperature sense or misplace academic titles.
Learning Tips
- Identify the three senses and label examples accordingly.
- Practice with collocations like 'degree of,' 'degrees Celsius,' and 'degree in biology'.
- memorize common diploma-name phrases (bachelor, master, doctorate).
- Use flashcards for phrases that take degree with a field.
- Read academic abstracts to see how degree is used in context.
- Check dictionaries for context-specific translations.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'degrees'?
A.A type of food preparation.
B.The state of being happy.
C.Levels of temperature or measurement.
D.A term for friendship.
Step 2: Usage
Select the correctly used sentence with the word 'degrees'.
A.The cake must bake for five degrees.
B.He graduated with honors and received his master's degrees.
C.The temperature rose to 30 degrees Celsius.
D.She felt a million degrees better after her vacation.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'degrees'?
A.height
B.love
C.temperature
D.width
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'degrees'?
A.disorder
B.chaos
C.uniformity
D.calmness
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context involving 'degrees'?
A.The weather forecast predicted a drop of 10 degrees tonight.
B.She measured the angle of the triangle.
C.He felt overwhelmed in the crowd.
D.It was very cold yesterday.
Related Listening
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