hollow - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
hollow Word Meanings
- having a hole or empty space inside
- not sincere or genuine
- to make or become empty inside
hollow Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
hollow Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈhɒl.əʊ/
US
/ˈhɑː.loʊ/
hollow Word Etymology
hollow = hole + -ow (adjective suffix); Old English 'holh' → Middle English 'holw' → Modern English 'hollow'. Think of a tree trunk that is hollow, where the inside is empty—imagine a rabbit happily hopping around inside its cozy, dark home.
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 place my palm on a mug and turn it slowly, watching the air fill the hollow inside. I shift my grip and sense the empty space press back against my fingers, cool and quiet. That small hollow becomes a cue, nudging me to speak with warmth rather than a quick, hollow compliment. Later, I hold my tone steady and avoid letting my words feel hollow.
Real Context
Hollow describes something with a hole or empty space inside, such as a log, a shell, or a cavity in rock. It also carries a figurative sense: not sincere or genuine, as in a hollow promise or hollow words. As a verb, hollow means to remove material and create an empty interior, for example to hollow out a pumpkin or a piece of wood. The primary sense is physical and concrete, while the metaphor invites skepticism about the thing’s substance or honesty. Learners should distinguish adjective and verb use, note common collocations, and watch for context clues that signal physical emptiness versus deceit.
Usage Reminders
- Use hollow to describe a physical cavity or empty space.
- Use hollow figuratively for insincerity or emptiness of content.
- As a verb, hollow out means to remove material and create an interior.
- Differentiate hollow from holey (full of holes) and hollowed (made hollow).
- Pay attention to pronunciation and typical collocations in context.
Common Misconceptions
- Hollow always means something is empty inside physically, which is not always true in the figurative sense.
- Confusing hollow with holey; holey emphasizes perforations, hollow emphasizes a cavity.
- Assuming hollowed out is the same as hollow; hollowed out is the process of making something hollow.
- Thinking hollow only describes objects, not people or promises.
- Mispronouncing the word due to regional pronunciation differences.
Thinking Differences
Hollow is taught as a two-track concept: a tangible cavity and a figurative lack of substance. Learners often pick one sense and apply it everywhere, so practice with both contexts and compare with synonyms like cavity and empty/insincere.
Learning Tips
- Read aloud to feel the rhythm of hollow in sentences.
- Create a mini glossary of physical vs figurative uses.
- Compare with synonyms like cavity and empty as adjectives.
- Practice using hollow in both noun-like? No noun form; ignore.
- Listen for collocations like hollow inside and hollowed out.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'hollow' mean?
A.Full of joy
B.Empty inside
C.Hard to understand
D.Colorful
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'hollow' used correctly?
A.His hollow smile showed his true emotions.
B.She painted the hollow wall with bright colors.
C.The hollow of the tree was filled with water.
D.The hollow sky was filled with stars.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'hollow'?
A.Solid
B.Full
C.Hollowed
D.Shallow
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'hollow'?
A.Packed
B.Thick
C.Solid
D.Dense
Step 5: Mastery
In what situation would you describe a 'hollow' sound?
A.An empty bucket being hit
B.A bell ringing softly
C.A drum beaten lightly
D.A waterfall flowing loudly
Related Listening
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