law - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
law Word Meanings
- a system of rules created and enforced by social or governmental institutions
- the profession of legal practice
- a particular set of rules or principles governing conduct
law Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
law Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/lɔː/
US
/lɔ/
law Word Etymology
Root: law (from Old English 'lagu' meaning 'lay, something laid down'). Historical Origin: Old English → Middle English → Modern English. Memory Image: Imagine a gavel striking down to enforce rules, symbolizing governance and order.
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 move my hand along a table edge, then push a chair back to clear space. I watch how my choice to place or step changes the room’s flow, and I pull my focus to follow its line. I adjust my pace, keeping steady, and I feel the weight of a simple rule guiding where I can go and what I can do. That unspoken order, like a quiet law, sits in the air and shapes how I act in everyday moments.
Real Context
Law is a system of rules created and enforced by governments and societies to maintain order, resolve disputes, and protect rights. It ranges from constitutional principles to everyday regulations, and it shapes how people behave in public and private life. The word also covers the legal profession, including lawyers and judges, and the practice of legal theory and advocacy. In daily use, law describes both the institution that writes rules and the body of rules itself. When people speak of following the law, they mean complying with established rules and the consequences of breaking them.
Usage Reminders
- Follow the law, avoid confusion with legal vs lawful, use law in singular with broad sense, discuss laws in different countries, remember 'the law says' is a quote, use 'the laws' for multiple jurisdictions
Common Misconceptions
- Law equals the entire justice system
- Law is only about criminal rules
- The law and the legal system are the same as 'the law' everyone follows
- Lawyers are all politicians
- If something is legal, it is always fair
Thinking Differences
Law in English often blends rules with the profession that practices them; learners may mix 'law' with 'legal' or think laws always require formal statutes.
Learning Tips
- Learn the main collocations with law (the law, obey the law, follow the law)
- Differentiate law from legal and lawful
- Practice 'the law says' vs 'the law is' for quotes and descriptions
- Study how 'the laws' are used across different countries
- Read short passages about famous legal cases to see law in action
- Keep a glossary of related terms: statute, regulation, code, doctrine
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'law'?
A.A type of animal
B.A type of food
C.A set of rules established by a society or government
D.A piece of jewelry
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'law' used in a sentence?
A.He studied criminal law in college
B.They walked their law to the park
C.She wore a beautiful law
D.I ate a delicious law
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'law'?
A.Book
B.Rule
C.Cheerful
D.Play
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'law'?
A.Fun
B.Chaos
C.Order
D.Peace
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you encounter the word 'law'?
A.At a bakery
B.In a movie theater
C.In a swimming pool
D.At a law firm
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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