dolphins - Master This Word
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dolphins Word Meanings
- a marine mammal known for its intelligence
- a playful creature found in oceans
- a symbol of harmony and joy
dolphins Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
dolphins Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈdɒl.fɪn/
US
/ˈdɑːl.fɪn/
dolphins Word Etymology
From Greek 'delphís' = dolphin + Latin 'dolphinus' → Old French 'dauphin' → English. Memory image: imagine a dolphin leaping through waves, joyful and free, representing the harmony of the sea.
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
The dolphin is a widely recognized marine mammal known for its high intelligence, social behavior, and acrobatic leaps. In everyday English, dolphin refers to the animal, but it is also used metaphorically to describe people or things associated with harmony, joy, and playfulness. Because of its friendly image, the word appears in stories, tourism language, and media about the sea. Learners should note the plural form is dolphins and that it is a noun, not a color or brand name. Distinguish from porpoise, and remember the related term 'dauphin' in French can be confusing due to historical links.
Usage Reminders
- Dolphin is a noun; plural dolphins.
- Refers to the animal, not a fish.
- Pronounce dol-phon with stress on the first syllable.
- Common collocations: dolphin show, dolphin watching, bottlenose dolphin.
- Don’t confuse with the French 'dauphin' or with porpoise.
Common Misconceptions
- Dolphins are fish
- All dolphins live in warm seas
- Dolphins can talk like humans
- Dolphins are the same as whales
- Dauphin is another English word for dolphin
Thinking Differences
In English, the word dolphin evokes a specific animal with a friendly image; learners often worry about whether it can be confused with fish or royalty terms like dauphin. Keep attention on the mammal identity and common metaphors.
Learning Tips
- Practice the pronunciation: dol-fin.
- Remember the plural: dolphins.
- Differentiate from porpoise and whale.
- Use in context: dolphin show vs. dolphin watching.
- Be aware of French dauphin as a false friend.
- Read lots of natural examples.
Related Listening
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