expire - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
expire Word Meanings
- to come to an end
- to die
- to lose validity
expire Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
expire Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪkˈspaɪə/
US
/ɪkˈspaɪr/
expire Word Etymology
ex- = out + pire = to breathe. Originated from Latin 'exspirare', which meant 'to breathe out' and evolved to refer to the end of life or validity. Picture someone taking a final breath and letting go of air, symbolizing the end.
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 reach to set the timer, turning the knob with a slow push and careful twist. The numbers shift under my fingers and the room shifts from busy to quiet. I hold my breath, adjust my grip, and feel time push us toward an ending. That end—when something expires—brings a quiet, inevitable change you notice in what you do next.
Real Context
Expire means to come to an end, to die, or to lose validity. It can describe something that is no longer valid after a date, such as a passport or a contract, or something that ends by time or usage. In everyday speech, you might say a subscription expires next month, or a loaf of bread has expired. In a medical or formal context, expire can refer to death, as in "the patient expired." The key idea is cessation of validity or life; the exact sense depends on the subject and tone. Context will usually tell you which meaning is meant.
Usage Reminders
- Remember the date for expiry
- Do not confuse with 'to end' in abstract sense
- Check collocations like expires vs expired
- Use polite alternatives when talking about death
- Know common phrasings for documents and contracts
- Practice with real-world labels like 'expires' on food and meds
Common Misconceptions
- Expire always means death
- Expired is a physical thing that ends forever
- Expire and end are interchangeable in all contexts
- To expire is the same as to finish a task
- Food that expires is no longer dangerous or usable
Thinking Differences
For English learners, expire often pairs with specific nouns (date, deadline, contract) and with death in formal contexts. Learners may assume it always means death or use expired when something just ends, not understanding the validity angle.
Learning Tips
- Learn key collocations: expires, expired, expiration date
- Differentiate death sense using 'passed away' for politeness
- Practice with foods, meds, and official documents
- Notice the subject to choose forms correctly
- Use past tense 'expired' for past expiry
- Read labels and contracts to see common phrases
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'expire'?
A.To open
B.To close
C.To start
D.To end
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'expire' used correctly?
A.The coupon expired yesterday.
B.She will begin her new job next week.
C.He just bought a new car.
D.We are planning a vacation
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'expire'?
A.Finish
B.Start
C.Continue
D.Pause
Step 4: Opposite Words
In a real-life context, when might something 'expire'?
A.When a project continues
B.When a race begins
C.When a sale starts
D.When a subscription ends
Step 5: Mastery
Create a sentence using the word 'expire'.
A.I love to read books.
B.I enjoy cooking dinner.
C.The sun shines brightly.
D.My gym membership will expire next month.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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