efface - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
efface Word Meanings
- to erase or make something disappear
- to remove all traces of
- to wipe out or obliterate
efface Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
efface Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪˈfeɪs/
US
/ɪˈfeɪs/
efface Word Etymology
e- (out) + face (to surface) → From Latin 'effacere', meaning 'to make disappear'. Imagine wiping a chalkboard clean, where nothing remains.
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
Efface is a formal, literary verb meaning to erase or remove all traces of something. It covers wiping away marks, memories, or evidence, and implies a complete disappearance rather than a partial cleaning. In English, efface often carries a sense of intentional or official removal, rather than everyday cleaning. It can describe physical surfaces being scrubbed clean or metaphorical removal from history, memory, or record. The word comes from Latin effacere, literally "to make disappear," and it tends to appear in academic, legal, or historical writing rather than casual speech. This nuance helps learners distinguish it from erasing more commonplace or neutral terms.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Use efface for removing traces or memories in formal or literary contexts.
- 2) Pair with all traces, memory, or records, not with simple surface cleaning.
- 3) Emphasize total disappearance rather than partial cleaning.
- 4) The phrase be effaced is common in passive constructions.
- 5) For digital data or casual cleaning, prefer erase.
Common Misconceptions
- Efface is not exactly the same as erase; it implies removing traces or memories, often in a formal or historical sense.
- It is not used for everyday cleaning; use erase for mundane surface cleaning.
- Be careful with 'efface yourself' – it can mean disappearing from memory or notice, not just physically hiding.
- Do not confuse with erase in digital contexts; both exist but efface is less common there.
- Pronunciation is /ɪˈfeɪs/; do not say /ˈɛf. eɪs/.
Thinking Differences
English learners should note that efface is more literary and formal than erase, often describing the complete removal of traces or memories, not just surface dirt. It often pairs with memory, records, or history and appears in academic or legal prose.
Learning Tips
- Note the formality level: efface is more literary than erase.
- Use efface with traces, memory, and records.
- Avoid using efface for everyday cleaning; use erase instead.
- Practice passive form: be effaced / be effacing.
- Learn common collocations: efface all traces, efface from history.
- Listen for its pronunciation: /ɪˈfeɪs/.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'efface'?
A.Enhance
B.Expand
C.Erase
D.Encrypt
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'efface' correctly?
A.He tried to efface his mistakes.
B.She painted an efface picture.
C.Efface is a colorful word.
D.Efface the door before painting.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'efface'?
A.Highlight
B.Erase
C.Retain
D.Observe
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an opposite (antonym) for 'efface'?
A.Expose
B.Illuminate
C.Conceal
D.Prolong
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life scenario would someone want to efface something?
A.Drawing a beautiful artwork
B.Planting a garden
C.Recording important information
D.Cleaning a whiteboard after a meeting
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