indemnify - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
indemnify Word Meanings
- to compensate for damage or loss
- to protect someone from legal responsibility
- to secure against future loss or harm
indemnify Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
indemnify Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪnˈdɛmɪfaɪ/
US
/ɪnˈdɛmɪfaɪ/
indemnify Word Etymology
in- = not + demn = harm, damage + -ify = to make. Originated from Latin through Old French into English. Visualize a shield that protects your possessions from harm, representing safety against loss and damage.
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
Indemnify means to compensate someone for damage or loss, or to protect them from legal responsibility. It is commonly used in contracts, insurance, and risk management to shift financial risk away from one party to another. When you indemnify someone, you agree to reimburse costs, cover damages, or secure protection against future harm. The idea combines monetary compensation with risk mitigation, rather than simply assigning blame. In everyday business English, you will see phrases like indemnify you against losses or be indemnified for damages. Learn the formal usage, common collocations, and how it differs from similar verbs such as insure or compensate.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Distinguish indemnify from insure and compensate
- 2) Use indemnify someone against something in formal contexts
- 3) Remember the noun form: indemnification
- 4) Watch for passive voice: be indemnified by/for
- 5) Compare with insurance terms in contracts to spot nuances
Common Misconceptions
- Indemnify = admit fault; it always means you were at fault.
- Indemnify is the same as insure.
- Indemnify only means paying damages, never protection.
- Indemnify can only be used with people, not objects.
- Indemnify and compensate are always interchangeable.
Thinking Differences
English learners often pair indemnify with blame or punishment, but it is a formal risk-transfer term. Focus on collocations like indemnify someone against something and the noun indemnification; avoid mixing with insure unless the context is about policy protection.
Learning Tips
- 1) Map indemnify to both compensation and protection.
- 2) Learn key collocations: indemnify someone against something.
- 3) Recognize the noun: indemnification.
- 4) Practice with contracts and insurance clauses.
- 5) Compare with insure and compensate to see subtle differences.
- 6) Use passive forms: be indemnified by/for.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'indemnify'?
A.Sing
B.Sleep
C.Jump
D.Compensate
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'indemnify' correctly?
A.She danced at the party.
B.I watched a movie last night.
C.They cooked a delicious meal.
D.He indemnified his friend for the damages.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'indemnify'?
A.Punish
B.Ignore
C.Reward
D.Hurt
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'indemnify'?
A.Apologize
B.Protect
C.Compensate
D.Penalize
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would someone need to 'indemnify' another person?
A.Cooking a meal
B.Going for a walk
C.Breaking someone's property by accident
D.Dancing at a party
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App