emotional - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
emotional Word Meanings
- related to feelings
- showing strong feelings
- capable of strong feelings
emotional Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
emotional Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪˈməʊʃənl/
US
/ɪˈmoʊʃənl/
emotional Word Etymology
From 'emote' (to move out) + '-ional' (relating to). Origin: Latin 'emovere' → Old French 'emotion' → English. Imagine emotions bubbling up and overflowing like a geyser, expressing deep feelings.
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
I press my palm to my chest and let my breath slow, watching my shoulders shift as a small heat rises inside. An emotional pull grows, and I hold it there, steering it with a careful blink and a slight tilt of the head. It changes with my decision to stay open or pull back, and I keep control as the room grows warmer. That feeling slips into how I speak or listen, turning a moment into something alive rather than quiet.
Real Context
Emotional describes something related to feelings and to experiences that move us deeply. It can refer to a person who shows strong feelings, a response that is intense, or a work of art that evokes emotion. In everyday usage, emotional often emphasizes intensity rather than merely being moody. It contrasts with neutral or rational descriptions: you can be emotional in a happy moment or in a sad situation, and you can observe emotional reactions in others or in the media. Learners should note common collocations such as an emotional reaction, an emotionally charged scene, or become emotional at a memory, and distinguish it from the noun emotion.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: emotional = about strong feelings; emotionally (adv) describes the action; not all strong feelings are negative; emotional can describe people, moments, or works; think of context (public, personal, artistic).
Common Misconceptions
- Emotional equals dramatic or negative only
- Confusing emotional with emoti ve meaning
- Using emotional where neutral or rational is intended
- Thinking emotional always describes people, not events or works
- Mixing up emotion (noun) with emotional (adjective)
Thinking Differences
English speakers often consider emotional as a broad, neutral-to-strong descriptor of feelings; learners may confuse it with emotive, which suggests provoking feelings, or with emotion as a noun. Context matters: be careful when describing mood, media, or events.
Learning Tips
- Study common collocations: emotional reaction, emotionally charged scene, become emotional
- Differentiate emotional (adj) from emotion (noun) and emotionally (adv)
- Watch media with subtitles to see how scenes are described emotionally
- Practice describing your own memories as emotional or not
- Compare with emotive and emotionality to grasp nuance
- Use a thesaurus cautiously; not everything dramatic needs emotional
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'emotional'?
A.Happy
B.Sensitive
C.Logical
D.Shy
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'emotional' used correctly?
A.He made an emotional decision based on facts.
B.She approached the situation in a calm and rational way.
C.His emotional response showed his lack of empathy.
D.The teacher was emotional during the lesson.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'emotional'?
A.Rational
B.Reserved
C.Calm
D.Passionate
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'emotional'?
A.Sentimental
B.Stoic
C.Intuitive
D.Volatile
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life situation where being emotional can have a positive impact?
A.When dealing with a difficult customer
B.When making important business decisions
C.When supporting a friend going through a tough situation
D.When solving complex mathematical problems
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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