guess - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
guess Word Meanings
- to estimate or suppose something without sufficient information
- to make a choice or decision based on intuition
- to arrive at an answer through a process of elimination or deduction
guess Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
guess Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɡɛs/
US
/ɡɛs/
guess Word Etymology
Guess comes from the Old Norse 'giska' (to guess) + its roots in Icelandic and Middle English leading to this practical action of estimating. Imagine a person tentatively choosing an option in a game, filling in a blank without any clues.
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 rest my hand on the card's edge and move my eyes across the clues, letting the possibilities line up in my mind. I shift through options, pushing away the ones that don't fit and holding on to the ones that feel promising. I turn the page and set a hunch, feeling the effort of weighing risk and intuition as the answer starts to take shape. When the choice clicks, the room tilts a little and I know I’ve arrived at a guess, not because I’m sure, but because the pattern finally feels right.
Real Context
Guess is a verb meaning to estimate or suppose something when you lack enough information, or to decide based on intuition rather than solid evidence. It can also describe arriving at an answer through a process of elimination or deduction, as in guessing a puzzle or a multiple-choice test. In everyday speech we say 'guess what?' to invite surprise, or 'take a guess' when we ask someone to estimate. Use 'guess' when you acknowledge uncertainty, but prefer 'estimate' or 'calculate' when numbers or data are involved. Common collocations include make a guess, guess right, and guesswork, which often carries a sense of provisional conclusion.
Usage Reminders
- Use guess when you estimate something without enough information
- Use estimate or calculate when you have numbers or data to back up your claim
- 'Guess at' means you are approximating and often uncertain
- Common collocations: make a guess, take a guess, guess right
- 'Guess what?' is a casual way to introduce a surprise or new information
- In formal writing, prefer more precise verbs like estimate or determine
Common Misconceptions
- A guess is the same as a fact and a sure answer
- Guess is always based on luck or random chance
- You should always guess instead of estimating when numbers are involved
- Guess and guesswork are interchangeable in formal writing
- Using 'guess' means you have to avoid reasoning or evidence
Thinking Differences
In English, guess is a casual, flexible verb signaling uncertainty. Learners often overuse it or apply it where a more precise word like estimate or deduce would be appropriate.
Learning Tips
- Distinguish guess (uncertain estimate) from estimate (numbers or data).
- Use take a guess or make a guess in informal contexts.
- Know that guess at implies approximation with limited evidence.
- Avoid using guess in formal writing for facts.
- Practice with everyday situations and games to hear natural usage.
- Learn common collocations like guess right and guesswork.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'guess' mean?
A.Clear
B.Precise
C.Unknown
D.Estimate
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following scenarios would you use the word 'guess'?
A.Predicting future events
B.Stating facts
C.Calculating exact measurements
D.Recalling memories
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'guess'?
A.Confirm
B.Assume
C.Reveal
D.Clarify
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite meaning of 'guess'?
A.Truth
B.Knowledge
C.Fact
D.Certainty
Step 5: Mastery
In a game of charades, players often have to ______ each other's actions.
A.Know
B.Guess
C.Understand
D.Infer
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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