equipment - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
equipment Word Meanings
- tools or machines used for a specific purpose
- the necessary items for a particular activity
- the act of equipping something
equipment Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
equipment Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪˈkwɪp.mənt/
US
/ɪˈkwɪp.mənt/
equipment Word Etymology
equip = to fit out; ment = the act of; Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Picture a knight donning armor, preparing for battle, symbolizing the process of equipping.
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 hover my hands over the box, move the latch, and pull out the equipment one by one. The metal cools my palms as I set it on the table and adjust the straps. A tiny shift in weight makes me tilt the case, decide which tool to pick first, and hold it steady. I know I’m ready when everything sits in its place and I can move from planning to action.
Real Context
Equipment refers to the tools and machines used to complete a task. In everyday speech it covers a wide range of items, from kitchen gadgets to sports gear and laboratory instruments. The plural form is common when talking about sets of items: camping equipment, safety equipment, and the like. The word can also describe the act of equipping something: to equip a team means to supply them with the necessary gear. When learning this word, pay attention to context: is it the items themselves, the overall setup, or the process of fitting things out? Practice by pairing equipment with concrete nouns and varied activities.
Usage Reminders
- - Equipment is usually uncountable; don’t add s.
- - Use concrete nouns after it: camping equipment, lab equipment.
- - Distinguish between the items and the act of equipping.
- - Learn domain-specific collocations (sports, tech, travel).
- - Check whether the context refers to the items, the setup, or the process.
Common Misconceptions
- Equipment is always plural; it is a mass noun and does not take -s in standard usage.
- Equipment only refers to large tools or machines, not small items or software.
- Equipment and tools are the same thing, with no important difference.
- Equipment means clothing or personal outfits in sports contexts.
- You should say 'equipments' when talking about a whole set.
Thinking Differences
English tends to treat equipment as a mass noun with several domain-specific collocations; learners often stumble between items vs process and forget that equipment is usually singular.
Learning Tips
- 1) memorize key collocations (camping equipment, lab equipment).
- 2) treat equipment as uncountable; avoid equipments.
- 3) practice distinguishing items vs the act of equipping in context.
- 4) pair with concrete nouns to build memory (equipment + noun).
- 5) note field-specific phrases (sports equipment, travel equipment).
- 6) listen for small phrases with equipment in authentic speech.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'equipment'?
A.House
B.Carrot
C.Tools
D.Ocean
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'equipment' correctly?
A.He watered the equipment in the garden.
B.She used the equipment to bake a cake.
C.The cat played with the equipment.
D.They drove the equipment to work.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'equipment'?
A.Fish
B.Furniture
C.Air
D.Breakfast
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'equipment'?
A.Warm
B.Empty
C.Laugh
D.Fast
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario involving 'equipment'?
A.They went swimming in the pool.
B.She read a book at the library.
C.He fixed a broken car engine.
D.He ate a delicious sandwich.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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