items - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
items Word Meanings
- a distinct object or thing
- a piece of information or news
- a unit or element in a list
items Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
items Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈaɪtəm/
US
/ˈaɪtəm/
items Word Etymology
item = 'one' + -em (a suffix denoting singular items). Originated from Latin 'item', meaning 'also' or 'likewise'. Imagine a shopping list where each 'item' you check off adds to your satisfaction of completing a task.
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 reach into a box and pull out an item, then move it to my desk and turn it to feel its edges. I set it down and push aside a stray note to make space, watching how the space shifts around it. The act of keeping one object in focus while discarding others makes the moment feel practical and alive. When you work with a list or catalog, you pick an item, place it in its spot, and adjust as new bits of information appear.
Real Context
An item is a single, distinct object or thing, or a unit of information, data, or news. In everyday English it refers to concrete objects you can touch, like a notebook or a chair, as well as items in a list: each line on a shopping list or to-do list is an item. The word can also mean a piece of information or a news item reported by a newspaper or broadcast. The etymology traces to Latin item meaning 'also' or 'likewise', but in modern use it simply marks a unit in a set. In many contexts, 'item' emphasizes individuality within a collection rather than quantity.
Usage Reminders
- Use item for a single object or entry, not for a person.
- In lists, each line is an item.
- Item can refer to information or a news item, not only a physical object.
- It is countable: one item, several items; avoid saying 'an items'.
- Choose article, product, or entry depending on context, since item is broad.
Common Misconceptions
- An item always refers to a physical object.
- Item and article are interchangeable in all contexts.
- A news item cannot be about information that isn't news.
- Items must always be part of a list.
- A single item cannot be used to refer to information.
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, item often signals a single unit within a collection and is common in lists, menus, and news contexts; learners tend to over-specialize to 'thing' or misinterpret its duty in legal or technical phrases.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: list item, shopping item, news item, menu item.
- Differentiate item from article, product, or entry by context.
- Remember the plural: one item, several items.
- Practice 'to itemize' and related phrases to describe lists.
- Read and listen for item in varied contexts (shopping, news, forms).
- Use item with countable nouns and avoid overgeneralizing to non-items.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of the word 'items'?
A.A group of people gathered together
B.Individual thoughts that are not organized
C.Physical things that can be counted or listed
D.An unfinished task in a list
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'items' correctly?
A.The items were running in the park.
B.He cooked the items for dinner.
C.Please pack the items we need for the trip.
D.The items of the team cheered loudly.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'items'?
A.products
B.thoughts
C.interruptions
D.gatherings
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'items'?
A.none
B.whole
C.single
D.collective
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where things are listed or packed?
A.For the charity event, we have various items to donate.
B.My dog plays fetch every day.
C.She enjoys walking through the park and meeting friends.
D.I need to get my groceries and prepare for dinner.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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