load - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
load Word Meanings
- to put a heavy thing onto something
- a weight that is carried
- to fill a vehicle or machine with something
load Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
load Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ləʊd/
US
/loʊd/
load Word Etymology
load = 'unloaded' + 'to carry'. Originated from Old English 'ladan' which means 'to lead, bring'. Imagine a truck filled to the brim with boxes, ready to deliver to a destination.
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 down, grip the box, and lift. I move it toward the truck, pushing against the ramp. The load sits heavy in my arms and I adjust my stance as it shifts. When I set the last box in place, the effort fades into a quiet ache and I hold the moment, sure the job is done.
Real Context
Load is a versatile word that functions as both a verb and a noun. As a verb it can mean to put a heavy object onto or into something, to fill a vehicle or machine with cargo, or to place data or software into a computer or system. As a noun it refers to the weight or cargo carried, the amount of work or pressure involved, or the process of loading data. Common collocations include load a truck, heavy load, data load, and to load up. The sense can be physical or abstract, so learners must decide whether they mean lifting, filling, or transferring information. Context often dictates the correct preposition and object form.
Usage Reminders
- Load can be transitive; use a direct object after load (load a truck). Distinguish between physical load and data load. Use up with a full container (load up). Don’t confuse unload with load. For software or data, you often say load or load into, not load up. Remember noun vs verb forms in sentences.
Common Misconceptions
- Load only refers to physical weight, not data.
- unload and load are interchangeable
- Load up means completely unload
- Load is always a verb
- Data loading is the same as saving data
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: English often separates physical load from data load and uses many phrasal verbs; learners must map each sense to context and beware of unload vs load and the noun/verb forms.
Learning Tips
- Practice both senses with simple contexts.
- Make flashcards for load as noun and verb.
- Learn common collocations like load a truck and data load.
- Notice the phrasal verb load up and its difference from unload.
- Watch for computer contexts where load means 'load into'.
- Use native examples to memorize prepositions and objects.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'load'?
A.Decrease in weight
B.Amount of something carried or supported
C.Short break
D.Musical instrument
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'load' used correctly?
A.She had a lot of fun at the party and was sad to leave early.
B.The students were quiet and did not talk during the test.
C.John's backpack was very light because he added more books to it.
D.The truck was empty and needed to be filled with goods for delivery.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a similar word to 'load'?
A.Empty
B.Light
C.Packed
D.Full
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'load'?
A.Lighten
B.Reduce
C.Unload
D.Drop
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you hear the word 'load'?
A.At a construction site moving materials
B.At a zoo observing animals
C.At a restaurant ordering food
D.At a library reading books
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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