empty - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
empty Word Meanings
- containing nothing
- lacking content or substance
- feeling a sense of void
empty Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
empty Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈɛmpti/
US
/ˈɛmpti/
empty Word Etymology
The word 'empty' comes from Old English 'æmettig', a combination of 'a-' (not) and 'metig' (measured). Imagine a glass completely devoid of water, representing a state of absence and void, helping to remember the lack of substance.
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 pick up a mug and move it across the table, then set it down calmly. I lean back, adjust my posture, and feel the space open up as if something is missing. The room shows its empty center; I hold steady, letting the quiet grow inside me. From this stillness, I change how I think about use—empty becomes a kind of space to fill with attention.
Real Context
Empty is an adjective and also a verb in English, describing something that contains nothing or has nothing inside, and, in extended uses, a feeling of void or lack of content. You can talk about a physical container that is empty, an empty room, or an empty cup after finishing a drink. It also covers abstract absence, like an empty promise or an empty argument, implying it lacks substance. People can feel empty emotionally or mentally when they perceive a gap between expectations and reality. Common phrases include empty-handed and empty space, and you often pair empty with prepositions such as empty of content or empty with regard to meaning.
Usage Reminders
- Use empty to describe containers with nothing inside
- Describe spaces or rooms that have nothing in them
- Use empty with of to talk about lack of content
- Combine with -handed to mean 'without whatever is expected'
- Be careful not to describe people as empty; use 'empty-headed' or 'hollow' instead when needed
- Pair with space or promises to express absence
Common Misconceptions
- Empty only means not full, not necessarily 'not important' or 'worthless'
- Don't assume 'empty' describes people; use phrases like empty-handed for actions instead
- Confuse 'empty' with 'hollow' in physical objects; reserve hollow for objects with substance but lacking interior detail
- Don't say 'empty of water' for a container you drained; say 'empty of water' is correct but common usage prefers 'empty' with the verb or 'empty of content'
- Mixing up 'empty' with 'vacant' in places or jobs; 'vacant' is a different sense
Thinking Differences
In English, empty centers on lack of content or presence, with many fixed phrases that learners must memorize (empty-handed, empty space). English often allows metaphoric uses, but learners may over-literalize to mean physically not there in every context.
Learning Tips
- memorize common collocations (empty space, empty-handed)
- practice with both physical and abstract meanings
- note the 'empty of' + content structure
- pair with emotions to describe voids carefully
- learn fixed phrases and their nuance
- read/listen for context to determine sense
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence below uses the word 'empty' correctly?
A.The bucket is full of water.
B.He ate the whole pizza and left nothing empty.
C.The empty chair was comfortable to sit on.
D.She had an empty idea for the project.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'empty'?
A.Sparse
B.Lively
C.Sharp
D.Wild
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'empty'?
A.Replete
B.Hollow
C.Vacant
D.Complete
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context for the word 'empty'?
A.The hotel room had no guests during the off-season.
B.The store shelves were full of products.
C.The classroom was buzzing with students discussing a topic.
D.The vase was filled with beautiful flowers.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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