lorry - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
lorry Word Meanings
- a large vehicle for transporting goods
- a type of truck used especially in Britain
- a road vehicle for heavy loads
lorry Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
lorry Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈlɒri/
US
/ˈlɔri/
lorry Word Etymology
Root decomposition: lorry (variant of 'lorry') from the early 19th century. Historical origin: from the Old French 'lorie'. Memory image: imagine a big, rumbling metal box carrying goods across a wide road, bringing together different regions.
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 reach out, push the heavy door open, and step into a lorry cab, then turn the key. The engine growls to life, I adjust the seat and mirrors, and pull back the gear to get moving. A tense focus settles in as I grip the wheel, keeping steady and calm as the road grows under the tires. Later, when loading begins, I shift my mind to planning turns, set the pace, and move goods safely into the back of the lorry.
Real Context
lorry is the British term for a large road vehicle used to transport goods; it is similar to the American truck but often implies a heavier payload and long distance hauling. In Britain you hear lorry drivers or large fleets of heavy goods vehicles, including articulated lorries with trailers. The word has early 19th century roots and comes from Old French. For learners, note the regional usage and avoid assuming lorry and truck are always interchangeable in all contexts, especially in the US where truck is standard.
Usage Reminders
- Use lorry to refer to a large British freight vehicle
- Don't confuse with van or car; lorries are larger.
- Plural is lorries.
- Common collocations: lorry driver, heavy goods vehicle, lorry park.
- In American contexts, truck is the preferred term.
Common Misconceptions
- It is only used in the UK and nowhere else
- A lorry is always a truck of any size
- Lorry and truck are interchangeable in all English-speaking countries
- Lorry refers to the person who drives the vehicle
- The word is outdated or obsolete
Thinking Differences
To an English speaker, lorry sounds distinctly British and brings to mind UK roads, lorry drivers, and heavy goods fleets; learners may overgeneralize to all truck contexts or struggle with the plural lorries.
Learning Tips
- Listen to British media to hear lorry in context
- Practice the plural: lorries
- Learn key collocations: lorry driver, heavy goods vehicle, lorry park
- Differentiate from truck by region and usage
- Pronounce with British stress: /ˈlɒr. i/
- Read UK sources to see real world usage
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'lorry'?
A.A large vehicle for transporting goods.
B.A type of small bird.
C.A musical instrument.
D.A part of a bicycle.
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'lorry' correctly?
A.The lorry sang beautifully in the park.
B.She played the lorry at the concert.
C.We packed the lorry with furniture for the move.
D.He wrote a story about a lorry.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'lorry'?
A.Bike
B.Van
C.Train
D.Bike
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'lorry'?
A.Car
B.Bicycle
C.Pedestrian
D.Motorcycle
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where a lorry would be used?
A.My friend delivered groceries using a large vehicle.
B.She rode her bicycle to the store.
C.The concert featured a talented musician.
D.They took a bus on their vacation.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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