intern - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
intern Word Meanings
- a student or recent graduate working in a position to gain experience
- to work as an intern
- to confine or detain a person in a specific area
intern Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
intern Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪnˈtɜːn/
US
/ɪnˈtɝn/
intern Word Etymology
intern = inter- (within) + -n (noun suffix); Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a student enclosed within the walls of a company, eager to gain skills and learn from professionals.
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
Intern refers to a person, usually a student or recent graduate, who works in a company or organization to gain practical experience. Interns may be paid or unpaid and often perform tasks under supervision to learn industry practices. The term can function as a noun (an intern) or a verb (to intern someone or to intern at a company). In some historical or legal contexts, to intern also means to confine or detain a person in a specific area, but this sense is less common in everyday use. For learners, it's important to distinguish internship from internal, and to note common collocations like internship program, internship offer, and taking on an intern. Example sentences illustrate role levels and learning focus.
Usage Reminders
- Intern (noun) = a learner in a workplace; intern (verb) = to confine someone in detention (legal/history).
- Pay attention to paid vs unpaid internships.
- Common collocations: internship, intern program, internship offer.
- Do not confuse intern with internal or internet.
- Pronounce IN-tern, stress on the first syllable.
Common Misconceptions
- Interns are always paid employees.
- An internship is just a simple job with no learning value.
- Intern and internal mean the same thing.
- Only students can be interns; recent graduates cannot.
- To intern someone is a common business action.
Thinking Differences
English frames internship as a practical learning position and uses the detention sense only in historical/legal texts; learners often confuse intern with internal or internet and mix up paid vs unpaid internships.
Learning Tips
- Listen to pronunciation: stress on the first syllable.
- Distinguish noun vs verb uses in sentences.
- Practice with common collocations: internship, intern program, internship offer.
- Be careful with the detention sense; use formal/legal contexts if needed.
- Compare with close words: internal, internet, industry.
- Create real-world scenarios to use both senses naturally.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'intern' mean?
A.Temporary worker
B.Experienced professional
C.Remote employee
D.Freelance consultant
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'intern' used correctly?
A.She hired an intern to manage the project.
B.The intern has many years of experience in the field.
C.Interns are usually high-level executives.
D.He interned for a CEO during the summer.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'intern'?
A.Manager
B.Apprentice
C.CEO
D.CFO
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'intern'?
A.Freelancer
B.Consultant
C.Permanent employee
D.Supervisor
Step 5: Mastery
How does the concept of 'intern' apply in real-world situations?
A.Interns rarely contribute to projects.
B.Interns gain valuable work experience.
C.Interns always receive high salaries.
D.Interns never interact with other employees.
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