landslide - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
landslide Word Meanings
- a sudden collapse of earth or rock down a slope
- a decisive victory in an election or contest
landslide Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
landslide Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈlænslaɪd/
US
/ˈlænˌslaɪd/
landslide Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'land' + 'slide'. Historical origin: Old English 'land' + 'slidan' (to slide). Memory image: Picture a mountain where dirt and rocks suddenly shift downward, causing a massive flow, much like a winning team overwhelming their opponents in a game.
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
Landslide has two main senses in English: a geological event in which earth, rock, or debris suddenly slides down a slope, and a figurative use describing a sweeping, decisive victory in a contest or election. The literal sense evokes a powerful, dangerous force of nature, while the figurative sense conveys overwhelming support or a landslide margin. The etymology comes from land + slide, tracing back to Old English roots. For learners, linking both meanings to the same imagery—a mountain giving way or a race tilted by a huge margin—helps recall when to use each form in speaking and writing.
Usage Reminders
- Remember two meanings
- Use 'landslide' with 'victory' to emphasize size and speed
- visualize a mountain/rock slide for the literal sense
- Don't use 'landslide' to describe a small win or a typical fall
- Common collocations: landslide victory, landslide margin
- Pronounce: LAND-slyde, stress on the first syllable
Common Misconceptions
- A landslide always means an election win; it cannot describe a regular victory.
- It is not used for minor or close margins.
- Do not treat 'landslide' as a verb.
- Confusing 'landslide' with 'slip' or 'collapse' in all contexts.
- The literal sense is about natural events, not emotional overturns.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: landslide blends a literal disaster image with a strong, easily understood metaphor for overwhelming victory.
Learning Tips
- 1) Practice both senses in sentences.
- 2) Learn common collocations: landslide victory, landslide margin.
- 3) Visualize a mountain giving way to remember the literal sense.
- 4) Distinguish context: news vs. sports vs. politics.
- 5) Pronounce clearly with stress on LAND.
- 6) Compare with related terms like collapse and avalanche.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of 'landslide'?
A.A type of flower that grows in mountainous areas
B.A large increase in the number of votes for a candidate
C.A mass of rock and earth moving suddenly down a slope
D.A sudden failure of a structure
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct sentence that uses 'landslide' appropriately.
A.They had a landslide of paper work that needed to be completed for the project.
B.The politician won the election by a landslide, earning a vast majority of the votes.
C.The landslide of snow fell silently on the forest floor.
D.She experienced a landslide of emotions when she learned of her friend's success.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'landslide'?
A.Avalanche
B.Crater
C.Mudslide
D.Flood
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'landslide'?
A.Destruction
B.Stability
C.Movement
D.Downhill
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where a landslide might occur?
A.After heavy rains, a sudden mass of mud and rocks came tumbling down the mountainside.
B.Many students passed the exam, completely acing it without any trouble.
C.An artist created a beautiful sculpture representing nature's tranquility.
D.The buildings were safe and strong, showing no signs of weakness.
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