humility - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
humility Word Meanings
- the quality of being humble
- a modest view of one's own importance
- lack of pride or arrogance
humility Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
humility Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/hjʊˈmɪl.ɪ.ti/
US
/hjuˈmɪl.ɪ.ti/
humility Word Etymology
Humility is derived from the Latin 'humilis', meaning 'low', and 'humus', meaning 'ground'. It evolved through Old French into English. Picture a person bowing their head low to the ground, exemplifying their humbleness as they acknowledge something greater.
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
Humility is the quality of recognizing one’s limitations and the value of others. It means a modest view of one's own importance, not denying talent but avoiding pride or arrogance. In daily life, humility shows as listening before judging, accepting feedback, and giving credit to others. Learners often confuse humility with low self-esteem or subservience, but in English it carries a positive sense of maturity. People express humility through phrases like 'I could be mistaken' or 'I don’t want to boast.' Understanding its nuances helps distinguish humble behavior from passivity, bragging, or self-deprecation, especially in professional or academic settings.
Usage Reminders
- - Use humility to balance confidence with respect
- - Pair humility with accountability, not self-deprecation
- - Practice phrases like I could be mistaken and I don’t want to boast
- - Notice collocations like humility and leadership, humility and teamwork
- - Don’t overuse humble phrases in formal writing, choose precise praise
- - Observe cultural contexts where modesty is valued but clear credit is given
Common Misconceptions
- Humility means thinking you are worthless
- Being humble requires never talking about your achievements
- Humility is the same as shyness or meekness
- Humility means you should always stay quiet in meetings
- Humility forbids anyone to give you feedback
Thinking Differences
English tends to reward overt self-respect balanced by generosity toward others; learners worry that humility sounds fake or weak when they downplay achievements.
Learning Tips
- Read and listen for common collocations (humility and leadership; humility and teamwork).
- Practice short phrases that signal humility without apology (I could be mistaken, I don’t want to boast).
- Observe how speakers give credit to others in professional contexts.
- Record yourself explaining a success and then rephrase to include others’ contributions.
- Note when humility is preferred over blunt self-promotion in different cultures.
- Use humility in both praise and critique to sound respectful.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'humility'?
A.Conceit
B.Pride
C.Arrogance
D.Humbleness
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'humility' correctly?
A.She showed her humility by boasting about her achievements.
B.His humility was evident in the way he treated others with respect.
C.Their arrogance was mistaken for humility by some.
D.The teacher's conceit overshadowed her humility.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'humility'?
A.Pride
B.Ego
C.Modesty
D.Vanity
Step 4: Opposite Words
In which real-life situation would 'humility' be important?
A.Interviewing for a job
B.Competing in a sports competition
C.Accepting praise graciously
D.Talking about one's accomplishments
Step 5: Mastery
Reflect on why practicing humility is valuable.
A.Conceit can hinder personal growth.
B.Pride can lead to conflict.
C.Arrogance often alienates others.
D.Humility promotes empathy and understanding.
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