jury - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
jury Word Meanings
- a group of people sworn to give a verdict in a legal case
- a committee that decides the winner of a contest
- a group tasked with evaluating or deciding on something.
jury Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
jury Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈdʒʊəri/
US
/ˈdʒʊri/
jury Word Etymology
Juror = jur- (to swear) + -y (group/event); Origin: Latin 'jurare' → Old French 'juree' → English 'jury'. Imagine a group of people in a court, raising their hands to pledge their verdict while exchanging serious glances.
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 forward, eyes on the room, and shift my weight as a hush falls. I adjust my notes, hold my breath, and listen as voices around me push and pull on every claim. Gradually the energy changes and we place our voices into a single decision. What we decide becomes a turn in the story, and we let fairness steer the outcome.
Real Context
Jury is a noun with several related but distinct uses in English. Most often it refers to a formal panel of citizens sworn to hear evidence and return a verdict in a court case (the jury). It can also mean a panel of judges or experts who decide the winner of a competition or who evaluate proposals, performances, or products. The term is singular when the group is considered as a unit (the jury was unanimous). It has a close relative juror, a person who serves on a jury. Learners often confuse jury with judge or juror, or forget that jury is a collective noun that takes singular or plural verb depending on the context.
Usage Reminders
- Know it as a collective noun; use a singular verb when the group acts as one. Distinguish jury from juror and from judge. Remember jury duty is a civic obligation, not a paid job. Use jury for both court verdicts and contest panels. Watch for context: law vs competition often swaps meaning. Practice common collocations like jury selection and jury duty.
Common Misconceptions
- Jury is a single person rather than a group.
- Jury and juror are interchangeable terms.
- Jury always refers only to courtroom verdicts.
- Juror and judge are the same role.
- A jury is always plural (the juries).
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Listen for the plural-sounding form in legal contexts
- Practice with 'jury duty' and 'jury selection'
- Compare with 'juror' (one member) and 'judge' (the authority)
- Use 'the jury' vs 'a jury' based on whether you mean a specific panel or any panel
- Read/watch legal cases and contest results to see both uses
- Create flashcards for common collocations
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'jury'?
A.A type of food
B.A group of people selected to make a decision in a court of law
C.A type of bird
D.A type of vehicle
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'jury' used in a sentence?
A.She drove a jury to work
B.The jury found the defendant guilty
C.Let's have jury for dinner tonight
D.I saw a jury flying in the sky
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'jury'?
A.Panel
B.Guilt
C.Innocent
D.Alibi
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'jury'?
A.Individual
B.Morning
C.Night
D.City
Step 5: Mastery
In what context would you hear the word 'jury'?
A.At a concert
B.While shopping for clothes
C.In a cooking class
D.During a court trial
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