hate - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
hate Word Meanings
- to strongly dislike someone or something
- to feel intense aversion
- an intense dislike or ill will
hate Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
hate Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/heɪt/
US
/heɪt/
hate Word Etymology
The word 'hate' is derived from the Old English 'hatan', which means 'to have a strong aversion.' Root: 'hāt' = 'angry'. Historical origin: Old English → Middle English → Modern English. Memory image: Imagine a person turning away in disgust, unable to bear the sight of something they deeply despise.
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 grip the edge of the desk and lean back, tightening my posture. I move my attention away from a person or idea that stings, turning my head to settle elsewhere. I breathe with effort, adjust the pace of my thoughts, and push away the impulse to lash out. In that quiet push and hold on myself, the feeling lands as a sharp aversion, a simple, real sense of hate that helps me keep my distance.
Real Context
hate is a strong feeling that can work as both a verb and a noun: as a verb, it means to strongly dislike someone or something; as a noun, it denotes intense aversion or ill will. The word signals a higher level of emotion than merely disliking and can carry hostility depending on context. You might say I hate rainy days, or I hate cheating, or there is a lot of hate between rival groups. In conversation, some speakers soften it to dislike or not like, especially in polite settings, but in passionate speech hate can appear in phrases like hate to say it or hate doing this.
Usage Reminders
- Use hate to express very strong feelings, not mild preferences.
- Avoid using hate about people in casual settings; consider 'dislike' or 'not like' instead.
- As a noun, 'hate' often refers to deep hostility or animosity, not a momentary feeling.
- Be mindful of tone: hate can sound harsh or judgmental.
- Practice with neutral contexts first, then move to emotionally charged examples.
Common Misconceptions
- Hate and dislike are interchangeable in all contexts.
- Hate always refers to people, not things.
- Using hate as a noun is common in casual speech.
- Hate cannot be used with mild statements.
- Hate is never used with positive contexts.
Thinking Differences
Think in English: hate is a strong, explicit emotion; avoid implying universal disgust; learners often overuse it when they mean 'dislike'.
Learning Tips
- Pair hate with strong adjectives to convey intensity accurately.
- Distinguish between dislike, not like, and hate through context.
- Use hate primarily for people or deeply disliked actions, not casual preferences.
- Practice softening phrases with would rather, prefer, or don’t enjoy.
- Note noun form hatre isn't common in all contexts; prefer 'hatred' in formal writing.
- Avoid overusing hate in polite conversation; choose neutral alternatives when appropriate.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'hate'?
A.Dislike
B.Adore
C.Love
D.Enjoy
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'hate' correctly?
A.I hate ice cream on a sunny day.
B.She hates to go on vacation.
C.They hate studying for exams.
D.He hates broccoli, it's his favorite.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is the most similar word to 'hate'?
A.Despise
B.Adore
C.Cherish
D.Revile
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'hate'?
A.Love
B.Neutral
C.Unconcerned
D.Indifferent
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where 'hate' would be used?
A.The intense feeling of dislike towards someone.
B.The great joy of spending time with friends.
C.The love for a favorite hobby.
D.The appreciation of a beautiful sunset.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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