excerpt - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
excerpt Word Meanings
- a short segment taken from a larger text
- a passage or quote
- to take a portion from a text
excerpt Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
excerpt Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈɛksɜːpt/
US
/ˈɛk.sɜːrpt/
excerpt Word Etymology
ex- = out + cerpere = to take. Originated in Latin, passed through Old French to become 'excerpt' in English. Imagine a person pulling a short piece of parchment from a larger scroll, highlighting the essence.
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
An excerpt is a short portion taken from a larger text, often used to illustrate a point, provide evidence, or entice a reader. In English, it can function as a noun (an excerpt from a novel) or as a verb in rare usage meaning to select and publish a portion. Excerpts are usually briefer than the full work and may be introduced with quotation marks or a lead in. The word comes from Latin ex and cerpere meaning to take, passing through Old French to English. When you use an excerpt, preserve the original context, attribute the source, and avoid altering meaning by taking it out of context.
Usage Reminders
- Use excerpts to illustrate a point, not to summarize the whole text.
- Quote accurately and attribute source.
- Keep context intact when citing.
- Prefer short excerpts over long passages.
- Avoid misrepresenting meaning by selective editing.
Common Misconceptions
- A short text equals a summary of the whole work
- Excerpts must be exact quotes every time
- An excerpt can replace the entire argument
- Only novels provide good excerpts
- Using an excerpt means you can ignore attribution
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Read several excerpts from different genres to see how context is kept.
- Annotate where the source comes from and how it supports the argument.
- Notice how tone and voice are preserved in short passages.
- Practice selecting excerpts that illustrate a point without distorting meaning.
- Differentiate between excerpt and full quotation in writing tasks.
- Create your own practice excerpts from longer texts.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'excerpt'?
A.A piece of music
B.A brief section taken from a text
C.A type of dance
D.A small insect
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'excerpt' correctly?
A.She danced to the excerpt in the library.
B.The author read an excerpt from his new book.
C.The excerpt flew around the garden.
D.He played an excerpt on the piano.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'excerpt'?
A.Introduction
B.Whole
C.Paragraph
D.Conclusion
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'excerpt'?
A.Entirety
B.Sample
C.Extract
D.Segment
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would you encounter an 'excerpt'?
A.Cooking a meal
B.Reading a book review
C.Fixing a bicycle
D.Playing a musical instrument
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