index - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
index Word Meanings
- a list of items, often organized in alphabetical or numerical order
- a sign or indication of something
- to arrange or categorize information digitally
index Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
index Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈɪndɛks/
US
/ˈɪndɛks/
index Word Etymology
Index comes from Latin 'index' meaning 'one who points out' (in- = toward + dicere = to say). It traveled through Old French into English. Imagine a librarian pointing out the exact book you need.
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 push open a catalog, drag my finger along the list, and shift toward the section that holds the index. I hold the page steady, feeling the grain of the paper as I adjust my grip and scan the order. A small turn of the wrist reveals the sign or indication I’m after, and I keep focusing as I decide where to go next. In everyday use, this index becomes a map I place in my mind, helping me find what I need without retracing steps.
Real Context
An index is a flexible word with three common roles. As a noun, it can mean a list of items, often arranged alphabetically or numerically, such as a book’s index or a product index. As a sign or indication, an index points toward information or a trend, like a price index or an economic index. As a verb, to index means to organize or connect items in a data structure or catalog so you can retrieve them quickly. Learners often confuse the book index with the table of contents, or mix up indexing with simply listing items. Understanding the context will guide correct usage.
Usage Reminders
- Index can be a noun or a verb; use the correct form.
- In books, an index is not the same as a table of contents.
- In computing, indexing means creating a data structure for fast lookup.
- Common collocations include index of, index page, price index.
- Avoid confusing index with indicator or pointer in everyday language.
Common Misconceptions
- Index is only a noun, not a verb
- Index equals table of contents
- Index is the same as indicator
- Index always refers to a price measure
- Index and index finger have similar usage
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Learn the three senses separately: list, sign, and to index.
- Use worksheets with book indices and database indexes.
- Practice phrases like index of, index page, price index.
- Pair index with prepositions (index of, on the index page).
- Read a paragraph aloud focusing on where the noun or verb fits.
- Create your own short glossaries for common index phrases.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'index'?
A.A tool for cooking
B.A list of names or topics
C.A type of dance move
D.A type of flower
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'index' correctly?
A.He read the index of the book to find the chapter.
B.She used the index to cook the meal.
C.The index was dancing on the stage.
D.The index bloomed beautifully in the garden.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is the most similar word to 'index'?
A.Swim
B.Catalog
C.Laugh
D.Run
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'index'?
A.Slow
B.Organization
C.Confusion
D.Happy
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario of 'index'?
A.She organized all her recipes in an index for easy reference.
B.He jumped joyfully at the park.
C.The sun was shining brightly in the sky.
D.They sang a beautiful song together.
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