intimate - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
intimate Word Meanings
- in a close and personal way
- with great detail or familiarity
- in a private or secretive manner
intimate Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
intimate Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈɪntɪmət/
US
/ˈɪntɪmɪt/
intimate Word Etymology
intimate = in- (within) + timere (to fear). Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine whispering secrets (no fear) closely to a friend.
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 lean in and move closer, my shoulders easing as I adjust my chair. I whisper, letting my voice drop a touch and pull the mind into the moment. A slight shift in distance makes room for details—little smiles, the crease by a laugh, the warmth of breath on skin. The room seems to listen, and the word feels like a private thread: intimate.
Real Context
Intimate as an adverb is rare in modern English; speakers usually use intimately to describe close, detailed, or private ways of behaving or speaking. Intimately can modify actions such as knowing someone, exploring details, or sharing secrets. When you see the sense 'in a private or secretive manner', choose words like secretly, privately, or confidentially in everyday English. This page focuses on the adverbial usage, which is less common but still correct in some contexts. Note that 'intimate' as an adjective (intimate friend, intimate setting) is common, but the adverbial form is most natural as intimately. Practice by pairing intimately with verbs of communication, relations, and description.
Usage Reminders
- Be aware that the adverb form is typically intimately; avoid forcing intimate into adverb position.
- Pair intimately with verbs of knowing, describing, and sharing.
- Choose secretly or privately for true secrecy, not intimately.
- Remember the contrast between intimate as an adjective and intimately as an adverb.
- Use formal registers when you describe confidential details.
- Listen to native speakers to hear natural adjacency with verbs.
Common Misconceptions
- Intimate is the correct adverb form in all contexts; limbo with intimately is wrong.
- Confusing intimate as a verb (to intimate means to imply) with its adverb meaning.
- Using intimate instead of intimately to describe privacy or detail.
- Thinking intimately always means romantic closeness rather than private closeness.
- Overusing intimate in formal writing where secretly or privately fits better.
Thinking Differences
English tends to reserve adverbial usage for intimately describing how a verb is performed, whereas many languages prefer a direct adverb like 'intimamente' or a phrase such as 'de forma íntima'. Learners often over- or under-use the adverb, or substitute the adjective form in the wrong place, producing awkward phrases.
Learning Tips
- Learn the adverb form intimately first.
- Pair intimately with verbs like know, describe, discuss.
- Use secretly or privately for true secrecy.
- Remember adjective vs adverb distinction with intimate.
- Practice with conversations about personal details.
- Listen to native sentences to hear common collocations.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'intimate'?
A.Close
B.Fast
C.Loud
D.Bright
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'intimate' used correctly?
A.They shared an intimate moment.
B.He shouted at his intimate friend.
C.She wore an intimate outfit.
D.The party was intimate with people.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'intimate'?
A.Distant
B.Random
C.Public
D.Familiar
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'intimate'?
A.Vulnerable
B.Quiet
C.Distant
D.Open
Step 5: Mastery
How would you apply the word 'intimate' to describe a small gathering at a close friend's house?
A.Intimate means loud and crowded in this context.
B.Intimate refers to the feeling of comfort and familiarity in a cozy setting.
C.The intimate setting made everyone feel awkward and uncomfortable.
D.The gathering was not intimate as it was too big and spacious.
Related Listening
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