immortal - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
immortal Word Meanings
- unable to die
- living forever
- not subject to death
immortal Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
immortal Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪˈmɔːtəl/
US
/ɪˈmɔr.təl/
immortal Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'im-' (not) + 'mortal' (subject to death). Historical origin: Latin 'immortalis' → Old French 'immortal' → English. Memory image: Picture a powerful being who exists beyond time, like a guardian angel watching over the world, never fading or dying, maintaining eternal presence.
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
Immortal is an adjective used for beings that cannot die or seem to live forever. In everyday speech it often describes mythic or literary figures, gods, heroes, or characters with extraordinary longevity, as opposed to a real person who ages. You can also speak of immortal fame or an immortal legacy, meaning that something will be remembered or celebrated for all time. In formal writing you may contrast mortal and immortal to emphasize the boundaries of life and time. The word comes from im- not + mortal (subject to death), through Latin immortalis to Old French immortal and into English. Picture a timeless guardian watching over the world.
Usage Reminders
- Use with beings or abstract ideas that seem timeless
- Not for ordinary people; often humorous or mythical
- Look for collocations: immortal soul, immortal fame, immortal memory
- Contrast immortal with eternal to show different kinds of permanence
- In fiction, it is a hyperbolic, not literal, descriptor
- Check pronunciation: /ɪˈmɔːrtl/ and stresses
Common Misconceptions
- Immortal means never dying in any real situation
- All immortals are human with eternal youth
- Immortal always implies positive connotations
- You can use immortal for historical figures who lived long ago
- Immortal is interchangeable with eternal in all contexts
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: immortal emphasizes not dying and is often used for mythic or metaphorical notions rather than real people.
Learning Tips
- Practice with mythic or literary samples.
- Note the collocations (immortal soul, immortal fame).
- Avoid using for real people; use ironic or hyperbolic contexts.
- Compare with eternal to sense nuance.
- Use in fiction reviews and analysis.
- Record multiple examples.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of the word 'immortal'?
A.Not lasting long
B.Capable of dying
C.Able to live forever
D.Easily forgotten
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'immortal' correctly?
A.The flowers are immortal and bloom every spring.
B.In many legends, heroes are often considered immortal.
C.She described the taste of the soup as immortal.
D.The school fight was an immortal event.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym for 'immortal'?
A.Temporary
B.Unending
C.Fleeting
D.Finite
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'immortal'?
A.Eternal
B.Everlasting
C.Mortal
D.Indestructible
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario involving the concept of 'immortal'?
A.Historians study the lives of immortal figures in ancient cultures.
B.Many people believe in the idea of being immortal through their legacy.
C.The athlete was known for his immortal speed during the competition.
D.Fossils give insights into immortal creatures from the past.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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