infection - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
infection Word Meanings
- the invasion of the body by pathogens
- a disease caused by germs
- the act of infecting
infection Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
infection Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪnˈfɛk.ʃən/
US
/ɪnˈfɛk.ʃən/
infection Word Etymology
The word 'infection' comes from the Latin root 'infectio', from 'in-' (into) + 'facere' (to make) - meaning to make into something harmful. This historical path shows how a simple process can lead to serious consequences, much like a small cut can become infected. Imagine a tiny wound that spreads germs, turning from a small injury into a serious illness.
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 press a finger to my wrist and feel the pulse, imagining a tiny intruder slipping in. In my head, the scene move unfolds: a door opens, air shifts, and an unseen crowd presses inside. I breathe a little heavier, adjust my posture, and keep watching how a small change can ripple through a day. It’s through this feeling of effort and control that I sense what infection might mean in real life, not as words, but as a lived moment to notice and respond.
Real Context
In everyday English, infection refers to the invasion of the body by germs that multiply and disrupt normal function. It can describe a condition caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, and you may hear about a skin infection, a lung infection, or a systemic infection. The act of infecting is about the process by which a host is exposed to pathogens and the pathogen establishes itself. The word traces back to Latin infectio, from in- (into) + facere (to make), giving a sense of turning something into harm. Learn to distinguish infection from inflammation, contamination, or contagion, and note how medical contexts tailor the term to particular organs and severities.
Usage Reminders
- 1. Use infection for disease-causing invasion, not just dirt or mess
- 2. Pair with organ: a lung infection, a skin infection
- 3. Distinguish infection from inflammation: inflammation is the body's response
- 4. Be careful with contagious vs infectious in different contexts
- 5. Common collocations: bacterial/viral infection, opportunistic infection
Common Misconceptions
- Infection always means a serious illness
- Infection is the same as inflammation
- Contagious means infection
- All infections require antibiotics
- Infection only happens with dirty environments
Thinking Differences
Learners of English often treat infection as a single event; English prefers to talk about organ-specific infections (lung infection) and contrasts infection with inflammation or contamination.
Learning Tips
- Practice with organ + infection phrases (lung infection, skin infection)
- Compare infection with inflammation
- Remember 'infection' is about pathogens invading, not just dirty conditions
- Learn common collocations: bacterial/viral infection
- Watch for 'opportunistic infection' in medical contexts
- Use context to determine severity
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'infection'?
A.A type of plant
B.To clean something thoroughly
C.A sickness caused by a virus
D.To jump high in the air
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'infection' correctly?
A.The beautiful flowers in the garden had an infection of colors.
B.He caught an infection after eating a healthy meal.
C.She felt an infection of joy after finishing her work.
D.The infection of the computer was fixed by the technician.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a similar word to 'infection'?
A.Symptom
B.Detection
C.Inflammation
D.Receipt
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'infection'?
A.Health
B.Wellness
C.Cure
D.Happiness
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario of 'infection'?
A.Eating a delicious meal at a restaurant
B.A student getting the flu from a sick classmate
C.Taking a relaxing bath at home
D.Buying a new book at the bookstore
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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