league - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
league Word Meanings
- a group of people or organizations that work together
- a unit of distance (approximately 3 miles)
- a level or rank in a competition
league Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
league Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/liːɡ/
US
/liɡ/
league Word Etymology
From Old French 'liga', derived from the Latin 'ligare' meaning 'to bind'. Imagine a group of teams tying their influence together, bound for success.
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
Start by holding the chalk in my hand and set a clean line on the board. I move the pieces, push teams along the grid, and adjust their spacing as I shift my focus. The feeling is steady and a little tense, like I’m shaping a circle of players who will act as one league. The idea tightens with the line, and soon the word sits in my mind as a shared stage and a clear level among rivals.
Real Context
League is a versatile English word with three core senses. It can describe a group of people or organizations that work together toward shared goals, such as a sports league or a business league. It also refers to a unit of distance historically used in Britain, approximately three miles. Finally, league denotes a level or rank in a competition, where teams move up or down based on performance. In everyday English, context cues determine which meaning is intended: sport, alliance, distance, or rank. Teaching this word highlights its formal and informal uses, and its figurative sense of collaboration and competition, helping learners recognize when a newly formed group or a high or low tier is being described.
Usage Reminders
- Use league for groups working together, not for casual friendship. Distinguish distance sense only in historical contexts or fixed phrases. In sports contexts, league implies a competition tier or association. Remember common collocations: league table, join a league, in the same league. Not every group is a league; some are clubs or associations. If unsure, rephrase with group or federation.
Common Misconceptions
- League always means a sports competition.
- A league is a club, not an alliance.
- League is a distance unit only in old texts.
- All groups with a similar purpose are leagues.
- League and team are interchangeable in every context.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (keep it short and clear).
Learning Tips
- Make a quick map of the three senses and their typical collocations.
- Practice with sports articles to spot the sense of competition.
- Note historical texts or old maps to see the distance meaning.
- Create sentences using league with collaboration, distance, and ranking.
- Watch for fixed expressions: league table, in the same league, join a league.
- Use flashcards that pair league with related words like team, alliance, mile.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'league'?
A.A method of transportation
B.A group of sports teams competing against each other
C.A musical instrument
D.A type of vegetable
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following scenarios would you use the word 'league'?
A.Buying groceries
B.Talking about a football competition
C.Fixing a leaky faucet
D.Playing a video game
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a similar word to 'league'?
A.Alliance
B.Enemy
C.Isolate
D.Accept
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'league'?
A.Friendship
B.Connected
C.Solo
D.United
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you hear the word 'league'?
A.Doing homework
B.Baking a cake
C.Discussing a basketball game
D.Watering plants
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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