glare - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
glare Word Meanings
- to shine with a harsh, bright light
- to stare in an angry way
- a fierce, angry look
glare Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
glare Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɡleə/
US
/ɡlɛr/
glare Word Etymology
glare = 'glare' (to shine) + 'ere' (to glare). Origin: Old English 'glears' → Middle English 'glaren' → Modern English. Memory image: Picture the sun glaring in your eyes, making it hard to see and making you squint.
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
Glare can be both a verb and a noun. When used with light, glare means shine with a harsh, bright intensity that can be blinding or uncomfortable to look at. As a verb, to glare at someone means to stare at them in an angry, fierce way, often with narrowed eyes. As a noun, glare refers to a fierce or angry look itself, or to the bright, dazzling light that creates discomfort. In everyday speech you might talk about the glare of car headlights or the sun glare on a sunny day. Memory image: the sun glaring in your eyes makes you squint and tilt your head.
Usage Reminders
- Use glare with at for a person (glare at him); reserve glare for strong, direct light or a fierce look; avoid using glare as a casual glance; differentiate glare from stare by intensity and emotion; count on collocations like glare of headlights and glare from the sun; you can describe a tense moment with a glare
Common Misconceptions
- Glare is only about bright light, not feelings; glare can describe a hostile look as well.
- You say glare someone; the correct form is glare at someone.
- Glare and glare of headlights can be used interchangeably, but context matters.
- Stare is neutral; glare always carries anger or hostility.
- A gentle glance is not glare; use glance or look instead.
Thinking Differences
Glare often blends brightness and emotion; English speakers rely on context and prepositions (glare at) to show a directed, angry look, while light glare can stand on its own.
Learning Tips
- Practice both senses with light and with people
- Pair glare with at for people: glare at him
- Compare with stare and glares in media to sense tone
- Use collocations like glare of headlights and sun glare
- Create memory images linking brightness and anger
- Watch for context clues to decide meaning
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'glare'?
A.To smile happily
B.To shine brightly
C.To cry loudly
D.To jump playfully
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'glare' correctly?
A.He was laughing at the glare of the joke.
B.The cat's glare filled the room with joy.
C.She couldn't hear over the glare outside.
D.The sun was gliding across the sky.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'glare'?
A.Glow
B.Whisper
C.Laugh
D.Skip
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'glare'?
A.Delight
B.Dim
C.Shine
D.Loud
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you see a 'glare'?
A.While baking a cake
B.During a fireworks show
C.Reading a book quietly
D.Sleeping in bed
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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