electric - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
electric Word Meanings
- related to electricity
- using or operated by electricity
- causing a sudden feeling of excitement
electric Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
electric Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪˈlɛktrɪk/
US
/ɪˈlɛktrɪk/
electric Word Etymology
electro- (from Greek 'ēlektron' meaning 'amber') + -ic (forming adjectives), Greek → Latin → Old French → English. Imagine amber generating sparks of electricity when rubbed, symbolizing the power of electric energy.
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
First I move my hand to the lamp and flip the switch. The room comes alive with an electric hum as the light snaps on and shadows drift away. I adjust the shade, hold the edge steady, and keep the glow in its quiet orbit. In that small moment of power, electric moves from a word in my mind to a spark I can feel in the air.
Real Context
Electric describes things powered by electricity or that run on electricity, such as electric cars, electric stoves, or an electric guitar. It can also describe something that creates a feeling of energy or excitement, as in an electric atmosphere or an electric performance. In most cases you place electric before a noun to show that the thing is powered by electricity (electric car, electric kettle). When you mean the broader field, wiring, or equipment, use electrical (electrical system, electrical engineer). The word ultimately comes from electro- (Greek ēlektron, amber) plus -ic, a metaphor that links the spark of amber with electric energy. Learners often confuse electric with electrical or electronic; context and collocations clarify the meaning.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Use electric before a noun for power-by-electricity meaning
- 2) Distinguish electric (power) from electrical (systems/fields)
- 3) For a vibe or excitement sense, pair with nouns like atmosphere or performance
- 4) Do not say electric bill when referring to charges? actually you do; 5) Watch for confusion with electronic; 6) Review common collocations
Common Misconceptions
- Electric means literally shocking or dangerous
- Electric and electrical are always interchangeable
- Electric must only describe appliances, never people
- Electrical describes the same things as electrical wires only
- Electric is used for electronics instead of electronic
Thinking Differences
In English, electric often directly modifies a noun to signal power by electricity or a high-energy vibe. Learners from non-Germanic languages may overgeneralize to describe people as electric or misread electric as a general synonym of electronic. Remember the contrast with electrical (systems/fields) and electronic (electronic devices).
Learning Tips
- Remember: electric before a noun means powered by electricity
- Electrical refers to systems, wiring, or fields
- Use metaphorical electric with atmosphere or performance
- Do not equate electric with electronics; electronic is about devices
- Learn common collocations: electric car, electric kettle, electric guitar
- Watch for bookish phrases like electrical engineering
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'electric'?
A.Pertaining to water
B.Pertaining to electricity
C.Pertaining to air
D.Pertaining to fire
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'electric' used in a sentence?
A.The electric car is noisy.
B.The electric car runs on gasoline.
C.The electric car is cheap.
D.The electric car is environmentally friendly.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'electric'?
A.Electronic
B.Wooden
C.Sunny
D.Wet
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'electric'?
A.Expensive
B.Quiet
C.Manual
D.Clean
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you encounter the word 'electric'?
A.Charging an electric vehicle
B.Baking a cake
C.Planting a tree
D.Reading a book
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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