judgment - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
judgment Word Meanings
- the act of forming an opinion or making a decision
- a legal decision made by a court
- the ability to make considered decisions
judgment Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
judgment Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈdʒʌdʒ.mənt/
US
/ˈdʒʌdʒ.mənt/
judgment Word Etymology
Root decomposition: judge = to form an opinion, ment = the result of. Historical origin: Latin 'judicium' → Old French 'jugement' → English 'judgment'. Memory image: Imagine a wise person sitting on a throne, making a fair decision, weighing evidence in one hand and a scale in the other.
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
Judgment is a word with three closely related meanings. It can mean the act of forming an opinion or deciding something after weighing evidence; it can refer to a formal decision issued by a court; and it can describe the ability to make thoughtful, well‑considered choices in everyday life. In speech you’ll hear about good judgment, poor judgment, or a judgment call when a decision is close and uncertain. In law, judgment is the final ruling after trial. Spelling differs by region: US English usually uses judgment, while some British usages prefer judgement in older or non-legal phrases. Memory image: a wise person weighing evidence on a scale.
Usage Reminders
- Judgment has three meanings: opinion, court ruling, and decision-making ability.
- In law, use judgment for the court ruling; in everyday talk, use it for prudent choices.
- Don't confuse judgment with verdict or decision.
- Spelling varies by region; judgment is standard in American English.
- Beware noun vs adjective forms: make a judgment vs showing good judgment.
Common Misconceptions
- Judgment always means a court ruling.
- Judgment and judgement are always interchangeable.
- Judgment is only about opinions, not decisions.
- Judgment is a verb form, not a noun.
- Confusing judgment with verdict leads to incorrect legal nuance.
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, judgment is a broad concept linking opinion, decision, and a keenness of discernment; learners often over-specialize it as either a legal term only or a generic impression about people.
Learning Tips
- Learn the three core senses: opinion, court decision, decision-making ability
- Pair good judgment with adverbs like sound or poor
- Keep straight: judgment vs verdict vs decision
- Notice regional spelling: judgment (US) vs judgement (UK in some uses)
- Use collocations: good judgment, sound judgment, make a judgment call
- Read/listen for contexts to distinguish legal vs everyday uses
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'judgment'?
A.Confusion
B.Decision
C.Excitement
D.Innocence
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'judgment' used correctly?
A.They showed great judgement in their decision.
B.She held back her judgment until she had all the facts.
C.Her judgment was clouded by bias.
D.He jumped to judgment without any evidence.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is the closest synonym of 'judgment'?
A.Discernment
B.Forgetfulness
C.Indecisiveness
D.Disregard
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'judgment'?
A.Certainty
B.Compassion
C.Tolerance
D.Ignorance
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life situation where good judgment is important?
A.Ignoring advice from experts
B.Choosing a career path
C.Wasting time on social media
D.Being indecisive in a crisis
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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