immunity - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
immunity Word Meanings
- the state of being resistant to disease
- the legal protection from prosecution
- exemption from an obligation or duty
immunity Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
immunity Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪˈmjuː.nɪ.ti/
US
/ɪˈmjunɪti/
immunity Word Etymology
Immunity comes from 'in-' (not) + 'munus' (gift or service), originally referring to exemption from the duties of a citizen. It evolved through Latin and Old French before entering English. Imagine a knight who is freed from service, allowing him to wander freely rather than being tied to obligations.
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
Immunity is the state of being resistant to disease, usually through a healthy immune system, vaccination, or prior exposure. It also covers legal protections from prosecution in certain roles and exemptions from obligations in specific contexts. The word immunity comes from Latin munus (duty or gift) with the negating prefix in-, and it entered English through Latin and Old French. In everyday use we talk about the immune system and being immune to a disease, as well as legal immunity, diplomatic immunity, and exemptions in taxation or inquiries. Learners should note that immunity is a positive resistance, not an absolute guarantee against illness, and that impunity is a different concept: the absence of punishment.
Usage Reminders
- Use immunity for biological resistance (the immune system, vaccines, and protection from disease).
- Use immunity for legal protection from prosecution or exemptions in specific roles.
- Do not confuse immunity with impunity, which means punishment is avoided.
- Common collocations include immune system, immune to, and grant immunity.
- Note that immunity can be partial or conditional by disease and context.
Common Misconceptions
- Immunity means never getting sick
- Immunity equals impunity
- Only old people have immunity
- Vaccines are the only way to gain immunity
- Immunity is permanent for all diseases
Thinking Differences
English uses immunity across three domains: health, law, and formal exemptions. Learners often mix biological and legal senses, and confuse immunity with impunity.
Learning Tips
- Learn key collocations: immune system, immune to, grant immunity
- Differentiate biological immunity from legal immunity
- Use immune to with diseases and immunity from with legal protection
- Be careful with impunity as a false friend
- Read real-world texts about vaccines and laws to see immunity in action
- Practice with sentences about people gaining immunity
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'immunity'?
A.Protection
B.Illness
C.Freedom
D.Fear
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'immunity' used correctly?
A.She was afraid of getting immunity to the cold weather.
B.He felt immunity after eating too much candy.
C.Her immunity to the flu helped her stay healthy.
D.The immunity of the flowers was blooming.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'immunity'?
A.Resistance
B.Secure
C.Defend
D.Vulnerability
Step 4: Opposite Words
How does the concept of 'immunity' apply in a real-life situation?
A.Ignoring safety measures in dangerous situations
B.Taking risks without consequences
C.Wearing protective clothing in extreme weather
D.Avoiding illness by getting vaccinated
Step 5: Mastery
Reflect on a time when you experienced 'immunity' in your life.
A.Trying a new food and feeling ill
B.Confronting a fear and feeling protected
C.Getting injured from not wearing protective gear
D.Feeling scared in a safe environment
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