legs - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
legs Word Meanings
- a limb of the body used for walking
- a support structure for furniture
- a part of a journey or route
legs Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
legs Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/lɛg/
US
/lɛg/
legs Word Etymology
From Old English 'leg' (meaning 'leg, limb'), connected to the Proto-Germanic 'legō', resembling 'to lie' - a leg lies down. Picture a strong leg standing firm, supporting the body's weight and taking steps forward.
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 bend my knee, push off with my leg, and lift my foot to move. I shift my weight, place that leg forward, and feel the surface catch under me. The effort is real but steady, and I keep balance, keep control as I step. Later on a longer journey, that leg becomes a leg of the route, helping me move forward.
Real Context
Leg is a simple noun with three main senses: a limb of the body used for standing and walking; a support part of furniture such as a chair or table; and a figurative segment of a journey or route, as in 'the first leg of the trip.' In everyday English, leg collocates with verbs like move, bend, and break for the body sense, and with materials or furniture terms for the furniture sense. The phrase 'the leg of a journey' is common in travel talk, though more natural is 'the first leg' or 'the next leg' of a trip. Etymology traces to Old English leg, related to Proto-Germanic roots.
Usage Reminders
- Leg is a countable noun for body parts and furniture; use the legs of a chair or table; leg of a journey = a segment of travel; distinguish from foot and limb; the idiom break a leg is a separate expression
Common Misconceptions
- Foot and leg are the same in all contexts.
- Leg always means the full piece of furniture.
- The leg of a journey describes physical distance.
- Limb and leg are always interchangeable.
- Break a leg literally means to injure the leg.
Thinking Differences
English often divides leg by function (body part vs furniture vs travel leg); learners must map senses to native concepts (e. g., 'leg' of a journey) rather than literal length or distance.
Learning Tips
- Practice the three senses with 3 sentences each.
- Memorize common collocations: leg of a chair, first leg of the journey.
- Compare leg with foot and limb to avoid confusion.
- Learn idioms: break a leg (good luck).
- Use leg in travel contexts to describe segments, not distances.
- Use plural legs when talking about furniture or bodies.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'legs' refer to?
A.A type of furniture
B.A part of the body used for walking
C.A fruit that grows on trees
D.An emotional state
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct sentence that uses 'legs' appropriately.
A.She wears beautiful legs every day.
B.The tree had strong legs that held it up.
C.He ran so fast, his legs were a blur.
D.They used the legs to paint the wall.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'legs'?
A.Arms
B.Fingers
C.Limbs
D.Head
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'legs'?
A.Feet
B.Head
C.Torso
D.Wings
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where the word 'legs' is relevant?
A.The athlete trained to improve his speed.
B.After a long day of work, she felt her body needed stretching.
C.The dog jumped over the fence and ran with excitement.
D.At the park, children played on the swings and slid down the slides.
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