log - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
log Word Meanings
- a record of events or observations
- a piece of wood
- to enter data into a record
log Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
log Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/lɒg/
US
/lɔg/
log Word Etymology
log = log (base word). Origin: Middle English 'logge' from Old Norse 'vag.' Memory image: envision a log floating down a river, tracking its journey and recording details around it, representing both a physical log and a logbook of events.
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 grip the pen, move my wrist, and push the page to note the moment. I shift my gaze, adjust my grip, and turn each new line into a small moment in time. The effort shows in my breath and the careful place I set each word, holding steady as I update the log. By the end, the page becomes a compact log I can pull aside, change, or keep close for later.
Real Context
Log has three main senses in English: as a noun a written record of events or observations kept for reference; as another noun a log is a thick piece of wood from a felled tree; and as a verb to log means to enter data into a record or database. You can read a log of activities, a server log, or a ship log. The etymology traces to Middle English logge from Old Norse loggr, and the image of a log floating downstream helps learners remember both the physical object and the idea of tracing a journey. Learners should note collocations like keep a log, maintain a log, and log in versus log on.
Usage Reminders
- Use log to refer to a recorded sequence of events or data entries, not a personal diary.
- Pair keep a log with dates and times to show when events happened.
- Be careful with log in and log on as used in computing contexts.
- Use log entry or log file for digital records rather than casual notes.
- Remember the physical sense when log means a piece of wood.
- Practice with phrases like maintain a log and make a log entry.
Common Misconceptions
- Log only means a piece of wood and not a digital record
- Confusing log in with log on in computing
- Thinking log is a diary rather than a formal record
- Using log when you mean logbook or journal
- Forgetting the verb form to log data is not the same as to log in
Thinking Differences
Log is a true polyseme in English with clear physical and digital senses; learners must memorize distinct collocations and be careful with prepositions in technical phrases.
Learning Tips
- Master the three senses first: record, wood, and to record data.
- Memorize key phrases: keep a log, log a entry, log in, log out.
- Practice differentiating log in versus log on in computing contexts.
- Use real examples with dates and times to reinforce sequential sense.
- Create mock logs for different domains like travel, IT, and maintenance.
- Review common collocations and keep a small personal glossary.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'log'?
A.A written record of events
B.A tree
C.A type of dessert
D.To jump
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'log' used correctly?
A.She decided to log in the forest
B.He kept a log of his exercise routine
C.I love to eat log cake
D.The cat tried to log over the fence
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym for 'log'?
A.Branch
B.Fly
C.Sprint
D.Diary
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'log'?
A.Record
B.Forget
C.Add
D.Delete
Step 5: Mastery
When would you most likely keep a log?
A.At a party
B.On a vacation
C.During a nap
D.While swimming
Related Listening
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