exigency - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
exigency Word Meanings
- a pressing or urgent situation
- a necessity or requirement
- an emergency situation needing immediate attention
exigency Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
exigency Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈɛksɪdʒənsi/
US
/ˈɛksɪdʒənsi/
exigency Word Etymology
Root: 'ex' (out of) + 'agere' (to drive) → Latin 'exigentia' (need) → Old French 'exigence' → English. Memory: Imagine a busy street where cars are driving outwards quickly due to an emergency - that's exigency in action.
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
Exigency refers to a pressing, urgent situation that demands immediate attention or action. It can describe a sudden need or constraint, a scarce resource, or a policy or moral obligation triggered by circumstances. The term is more formal than everyday emergency but often overlaps with emergencies and crises. In law, politics, and business, exigency signals that ordinary routines must be set aside because the moment demands are compelling. People sometimes confuse it with necessity in general; the key distinction is the immediacy and severity, not just any required condition. Pair it with in times of exigency to emphasize the contextual pressure.
Usage Reminders
- Exigency is formal and context-specific.
- It refers to urgent needs or pressures, not everyday preferences.
- Common collocations include in times of exigency and exigent circumstances.
- Avoid using it for minor inconveniences or ordinary requirements.
- Pair with times of to stress situational pressure.
Common Misconceptions
- Exigency is the same as an emergency.
- It is used only in legal or formal writing.
- It refers to a temporary situation that will pass quickly.
- It means a general necessity rather than a specific urgent moment.
- It is a casual synonym for need.
Thinking Differences
English often reserves exigency for formal, policy, or legal contexts; everyday speech tends to use emergency or urgent need. Learners may think it equals emergency overall or that it always implies law-like restraint. Emphasize immediacy and context.
Learning Tips
- Learn formal vs casual use and when to prefer exigency
- Memorize common collocations like in times of exigency
- Practice replacing everyday needs with more precise urgency words
- Read formal texts to encounter authentic contexts
- Create own sentences using in times of exigency
- Listen for context cues that signal immediacy
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of 'exigency'?
A.A type of fruit
B.An enjoyable event
C.A state of urgent need
D.A form of punishment
Step 2: Usage
Identify the correct usage of 'exigency' in a sentence.
A.The exigency of the situation required immediate action.
B.Her exigency for a new dress was evident at the party.
C.The exigency of the news was celebrated by the audience.
D.They faced an exigency that let them stay home.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'exigency'?
A.Routine
B.Happiness
C.Crisis
D.Joy
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'exigency'?
A.Emergency
B.Calmness
C.Urgency
D.Stress
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where an exigency might arise?
A.When planning a vacation without any constraints.
B.During a natural disaster requiring fast evacuation.
C.When picking a restaurant for dinner.
D.While discussing weekend plans with friends.
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