intake - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
intake Word Meanings
- the act of taking in something
- the quantity taken in
- an opening through which something is taken
intake Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
intake Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈɪnteɪk/
US
/ˈɪn.teɪk/
intake Word Etymology
intake = in- (into) + take (to seize) → Originated from Old English and Middle English terms meaning 'to take in'. Imagine a funnel that gathers and directs liquids into a container.
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 place a hand on my chest and tilt my head back to inhale. The intake of air moves in a steady flow, and I feel the chest rise. I adjust my pace, keeping the breath smooth, letting the body decide how much to take. In everyday moments, this intake shows up when I sip a drink, swallow, or take in information, guiding small choices.
Real Context
Intake is a versatile word in English, serving as both a noun and a verb form. As a noun, it can refer to the act of taking in something, such as air, food, or information, or to the amount that is taken in, like daily calorie intake. It can also denote an opening or passage through which something is taken, for example an air intake on a machine. As a verb meaning to take in, intake is grammatical mainly in formal or technical contexts, as in you might intake data into a system. People often collocate intake with calories, nutrients, or air, while ‘in take’ is not appropriate.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: 1) Noun vs verb usage 2) Collocations with calories, air, information 3) Openings like air intake 4) Distinguish intake from input/ingestion 5) Use in formal/technical contexts 6) Compare with ingestion in nutrition
Common Misconceptions
- Intake only means eating; it can also mean airflow and data into a system
- Confusing intake with input or ingestion
- Thinking intake always refers to a literal opening
- Using intake to mean admission to a place or program
- Assuming intake always indicates a fixed amount rather than a process
Thinking Differences
English tends to separate intake as both act and amount, with strong collocations like calorie intake and air intake; learners often overgeneralize to other senses or confuse with input.
Learning Tips
- Practice noun and verb forms separately with examples
- Make a list of collocations: intake + calories, intake + air, intake + information
- Differentiate opening passages (air intake) from intake in nutrition
- Compare intake with ingestion and ingestion with consumption
- Read technical texts to see formal usage
- Create your own sentences using daily intake scenarios
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'intake' mean?
A.Output
B.Process
C.Input
D.Consume
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'intake' correctly?
A.She output the food from her body.
B.Her daily water intake is important for hydration.
C.They consumed the meal together.
D.He processed the information quickly.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'intake'?
A.Output
B.Increase
C.Drain
D.Consumption
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'intake'?
A.Emission
B.Decrease
C.Output
D.Discharge
Step 5: Mastery
How is 'intake' relevant in everyday life?
A.Balancing water emission from the body.
B.Controlling information output at work.
C.Managing food intake for a healthy diet.
D.Regulating air discharge in the environment.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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