enlist - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
enlist Word Meanings
- to join or enroll in a group, especially the armed forces
- to engage or secure someone’s help or support
- to list or specify in detail
enlist Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
enlist Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪnˈlɪst/
US
/ɪnˈlɪst/
enlist Word Etymology
en- = to cause, list = a register; originated from the Latin 'inlistere' through Old French into English. Imagine a soldier stepping forward to 'join the ranks' on a list.
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
Enlist means to join or enroll in a group, especially the armed forces, and also to engage or secure someone’s help or support, or to list or specify items in detail. The core idea is taking an active step to become part of a larger effort, or to bring others into that effort by asking for assistance. In military contexts you enlist in the army, while in everyday speech you might enlist friends to help with a project or enlist resources for a plan. The sense of voluntary commitment and action distinguishes enlist from simply signing up or registering.
Usage Reminders
- Use enlist for joining or enrolling in a group, especially military.
- Enlist can take an object: enlist someone or enlist the help of someone.
- Common prepositions: enlist in, enlist with; not typically enlist to.
- It can also mean to list or specify items, though this is less common.
- Pronounce en-list, with stress on the second syllable.
Common Misconceptions
- Enlist is only about military joining; it can also mean getting someone's help or listing items.
- Enlist is not the same as enroll or register; enroll is more formal and generic.
- You enlist in something, not enlist to something.
- Enlist someone usually needs an object (enlist him/her).
- Confusing "enlist" with "inlist" (incorrect spelling) or with nouns like enlistment (noun form).
Thinking Differences
English tends to pair enlist with active, voluntary participation (often in the military) and with helping or mobilizing others; speakers may confuse it with enroll or register, which can imply formal or passive action.
Learning Tips
- Think of enlist as active joining, not merely signing up.
- Pair with in for military context (enlist in the army).
- Use enlist someone to emphasize recruiting help.
- Contrast with enroll to highlight formality or passive registration.
- Listen for phrases like enlist the support of and enlistment as a noun.
- Practice with varied objects: enlist volunteers, enlist a backer, enlist the team.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'enlist' used correctly?
A.She decided to enlist the puppy for a walk.
B.He enlisted the book back to the library.
C.They decided to enlist the party early.
D.The army encouraged people to enlist for service.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'enlist'?
A.Recruit
B.Engage
C.Join
D.Discharge
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life situation would someone 'enlist'?
A.Buying groceries
B.Enrolling in a new school
C.Sleeping in late
D.Watching a movie
Step 5: Mastery
Can you create a sentence using the word 'enlist'?
A.Enlisting for the project was not a good idea.
B.The cat likes to enlist in catching mice.
C.I decided to enlist in the volunteer program.
D.Let's enlist for a picnic this weekend.
Related Listening
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