espouse - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
espouse Word Meanings
- to support or adopt a cause
- to marry or become the spouse of someone
espouse Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
espouse Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪsˈpaʊz/
US
/ɪsˈpaʊz/
espouse Word Etymology
From 'es-' (a prefix meaning 'out' from Latin) + 'spouse' (one's partner in marriage). Originated in Middle English from Old French 'espouser', which derives from Latin 'sponsare'. Imagine a wedding where the couple pledges their commitment to each other and embraces a shared life together, vividly pictured by entwined rings symbolizing their union.
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
Espouse is a formal verb meaning to adopt or support a particular idea, belief, or course of action, and in older usage to marry someone. In contemporary writing you would typically say espouse a cause or espouse the idea that..., rather than a casual sense of support. The marriage sense is rarer today but still understood from historical context, and one might say a couple espoused each other in a ceremony in very formal or literary prose. It conveys active commitment and advocacy, not passive agreement. Learners should remember the common collocation espouse a cause and avoid treating espouse as a casual synonym for support.
Usage Reminders
- Use espouse with a cause, belief, or policy; not with a person.
- Reserve espouse for formal or literary contexts; in everyday speech say support or advocate.
- Do not say 'espouse to' someone; the object is a thing or concept.
- Past tense is espoused; passive voice is uncommon but possible in historical writing.
- Contrast with spouse, which is a noun meaning husband or wife.
- Common collocations: espouse a cause, espouse conservative/liberal values, espouse the idea that...
Common Misconceptions
- Espouse means marry someone in modern usage.
- Espouse is a casual synonym for 'support'.
- You can say 'espouse to' a person.
- Espouse is interchangeable with 'spouse' in all contexts.
- Espouse is always used with people as the object.
Thinking Differences
In English, espouse often carries a formal, sometimes literary tone and emphasizes active advocacy rather than casual support; learners should watch for its formality and its use with abstract objects like causes or beliefs.
Learning Tips
- Collocate with a cause, belief, or policy.
- Avoid using with people; do not say espouse to someone.
- Espoused vs espouse d), espoused is the past tense.
- Reserve for formal or literary contexts; everyday speech favors support/advocate.
- Be aware of the subtle marriage sense in historical texts.
- Keep a separate word-family note: spouse is a noun for a partner.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'espouse'?
A.Promote
B.Marriage
C.Criticize
D.Ignore
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'espouse' correctly?
A.She hated the idea of compromise.
B.He espoused the benefits of a plant-based diet.
C.They decided to end their relationship.
D.The teacher criticized the student's effort.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'espouse'?
A.Denounce
B.Reject
C.Support
D.Condemn
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'espouse'?
A.Embrace
B.Promote
C.Oppose
D.Advocate
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use 'espouse' in a real-life situation?
A.Talking about the benefits of recycling.
B.Ignoring important social issues.
C.Avoiding discussions about political views.
D.Saying negative things about a friend.
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