elapse - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
elapse Word Meanings
- to pass or go by (used in reference to time)
- to transpire or occur over time
elapse Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
elapse Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪˈlæps/
US
/ɪˈlæps/
elapse Word Etymology
(a) de- (away) + lapsus (slip, fall); (b) Originating from Latin 'elapsus', through Old French into English; (c) Imagine time slipping through your fingers like sand, emphasizing its transient nature.
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
Elapse is a verb meaning to pass or go by, especially when referring to time. We often say time has elapsed or that a period elapsed before something happened. It is more formal or literary than everyday verbs like pass or go by. Elapse can also describe events that occur over a span, as time elapses and a story unfolds. The word comes from Latin elapsus (slipped away) via Old French into English; picture time slipping away like sand through your fingers. Typical collocations include 'time elapsed', 'hours elapsed', and 'as time elapses'. It is mostly used in the passive: 'Several minutes have elapsed.'
Usage Reminders
- - Use elapse with time, not with people.
- - Most common phrase is time has elapsed.
- - Prefer passive structures for reporting durations.
- - Don’t overuse in casual writing; use pass or go by for everyday speech.
- - Remember the time-escape imagery in its etymology when explaining to others.
Common Misconceptions
- Elapse only refers to physical slipping, not time.
- It can describe people or objects moving past quickly.
- You must always use it in the active voice.
- It can be freely used with any tense without consideration of formality.
- It is interchangeable with 'pass by' in all contexts.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Link elapse to time imagery (sand slipping through fingers) to aid memory.
- Pair with time-related nouns like time, hours, or minutes.
- Practice passive form for reporting duration: 'has elapsed' / 'have elapsed'.
- Avoid using elapse with people; use pass or go by for animate subjects.
- Combine with phrases: time elapsed, hours elapsed, as time elapses.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'elapse' mean?
A.To quickly eat something
B.To make a mistake
C.To pass or go by, usually in reference to time
D.To annoy someone
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct sentence using 'elapse'.
A.I will elapse the sandwich at lunch.
B.She decided to elapse a letter to her friend.
C.The hours began to elapse as they waited for the news.
D.It’s important to elapse your homework every night.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'elapse'?
A.Obtain
B.Skip
C.Expire
D.Prepare
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of the word 'elapse'?
A.Stop
B.Begin
C.Continue
D.Postpone
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where time passes by, and you might reflect on its passage?
A.When I went to bed, I realized time had flown by today.
B.I spent the day at the park watching clouds and thinking about the past.
C.During a long movie, I noticed how time passed.
D.Last night, I finished my work before bedtime.
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App