enjoin - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
enjoin Word Meanings
- to instruct or impose a duty
- to forbid or prohibit
- to order someone to do something
enjoin Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
enjoin Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪnˈdʒɔɪn/
US
/ɪnˈdʒɔɪn/
enjoin Word Etymology
Root decomposition: en- (to cause) + join (to link together). Historical origin: Latin 'injungere' → Old French 'enjoindre' → English 'enjoin'. Memory image: Picture a teacher standing in front of a class, forcing students to link their actions with rules – enforcing a bond between duty and behavior.
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
Enjoin is a formal verb that means to order someone to do something, or to prohibit certain actions, typically by authoritative or legal means. It often appears in official documents, court rulings, or formal instructions where compliance is required. The sense of duty is strong here: the speaker asserts a rule that must be followed, and disobedience carries consequences. The word can also imply a moral or social duty, not just a legal one. A common pitfall for learners is treating enjoin as a casual synonym for tell or instruct; in everyday speech, more common verbs are preferred, while enjoin signals gravity and official power.
Usage Reminders
- Use enjoin for official commands or prohibitions
- Avoid casual equivalents like tell or order in everyday speech
- Often followed by to + verb or that-clause
- Caution: not the same as injunction (noun) or join (root)
- Accent on the second syllable: en-JOIn
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing enjoin with join; they are unrelated in meaning
- Thinking enjoin means 'to encourage' rather than to command
- Using enjoin in everyday casual talk, where 'command' or 'order' is preferable
- Mistaking enjoin for 'injunction' noun and misusing the form
- Misplacing enjoin in informal contexts where legal/official tone is required
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, enjoin signals formal authority and legal obligation more than everyday commands. Its nuance isn’t casual instruction; it’s a directive backed by power, often used in court or policy contexts.
Learning Tips
- Link enjoin to legal contexts and formal writing
- Practice with court-related sentences to build familiarity
- Differentiate enjoin from injunction (noun) and join (root)
- Use to + verb or that-clause after enjoin
- Remember the pronunciation emphasis on the second syllable
- Compare with other verbs like command, ordain, or prohibit
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'enjoin'?
A.To enclose something in a container
B.To enjoy a meal
C.To command or instruct someone to do something
D.To chase or pursue something
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence correctly uses the word 'enjoin'?
A.I enjoin the cake every weekend.
B.The teacher decided to enjoin the students to finish their homework.
C.She enjoined to watch the movie together.
D.They enjoin a lot of fun during the trip.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'enjoin'?
A.Neglect
B.Celebrate
C.Mandate
D.Persist
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an opposite word of 'enjoin'?
A.Advise
B.Proscribe
C.Permit
D.Encourage
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might enjoin another person?
A.The coach asked the team to practice hard for the game.
B.Children are encouraged to play outside during the summer.
C.A judge might enjoin a company to stop polluting.
D.The neighbor told me to take my dog for a walk.
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