lifetime - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
lifetime Word Meanings
- The duration of a person's life.
- The time during which something exists or functions.
- A period of existence.
lifetime Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
lifetime Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈlaɪftaɪm/
US
/ˈlaɪftaɪm/
lifetime Word Etymology
Life + time; 'life' from Old English 'līf', meaning 'the condition of living', and 'time' from Old English 'tīma', meaning 'measured or measurable period'. Visualize a ticking clock next to a vibrant tree growing through the years, symbolizing the passage of life over time.
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 rest my hand on a weathered photo and slowly turn the corner of the page, watching the images move under my touch. The scene shifts as memory stretches from one moment to the next, and I feel the effort to keep these moments in place. With each quiet breath and careful choice, the years set themselves in my chest, a soft measure of time I carry forward. lifetime stops sounding like a label and becomes the way I keep days alive through small acts and ongoing decisions.
Real Context
Lifetime refers to the total duration of a person’s life or the entire existence of something from start to finish. It can describe how long a person will live, or the period during which a thing exists or functions, such as a product’s lifetime. The concept also appears in idioms like lifetime achievement or a lifetime warranty, where it signals permanence or comprehensiveness. When describing living beings, English often uses the phrase 'in my lifetime' to talk about possibilities within a person’s experience. Visualize a ticking clock beside a tree growing through the years to represent the passing of life and time together.
Usage Reminders
- Use lifetime for the total duration of life or existence.
- Distinguish between the literal lifetime and idioms like lifetime warranty or lifetime achievement.
- For people say in my lifetime / in her lifetime.
- One word, not life time.
- Common collocations: lifetime of experience, lifetime partner, for a lifetime.
Common Misconceptions
- Lifetime = lifespan for people only; incorrect to use for non-living things without a separate phrase.
- Lifespan is not the same as lifetime when talking about products.
- Lifetime is not a fixed number like a countdown; it can be figurative.
- Do not split into two words like life time in normal usage.
- Avoid confusing lifetime with age or birthday years; context matters.
Thinking Differences
Lifetime blends life length and life experience; learners should note idioms like lifetime warranty and lifetime achievement, and distinguish it from lifespan.
Learning Tips
- Use lifetime for the total duration of life or existence.
- Distinguish from lifespan (biological life) in biology contexts.
- Learn fixed collocations: lifetime warranty, lifetime achievement.
- When referring to a person, use in my lifetime / in her lifetime.
- Remember it is one word: lifetime (not life time).
- Practice with both literal and figurative contexts.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'lifetime'?
A.Momentary
B.Short-lived
C.Timeless
D.Duration of a person's life
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'lifetime' used correctly?
A.He had a lifetime opportunity.
B.Her lifetime love for music was evident.
C.I will cherish this lifetime memory.
D.The flower's lifetime was short.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'lifetime'?
A.Eternal
B.Temporary
C.Hourly
D.Brief
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'lifetime'?
A.Momentary
B.Endless
C.Brief
D.Temporary
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you use the word 'lifetime'?
A.Referring to a fast meal
B.Discussing a short vacation
C.Talking about a person's longevity
D.Describing a fleeting moment
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