lucky - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
lucky Word Meanings
- having good fortune
- favored by chance
- producing good results unexpectedly
lucky Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
lucky Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈlʌki/
US
/ˈlʌki/
lucky Word Etymology
lucky = luck + -y; Middle English lueki, influenced by Old Norse lukka (chance). Imagine winning a lottery ticket by chance and celebrating joyfully with friends.
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
First I adjust my backpack strap, then I push through the door and step into the morning rush. I move with the flow of people, eyes open for tiny chances as the light turns green just ahead of me. A small turn of events seems to favor me—someone steps aside, a seat opens up, the coffee is just right. I hold the moment, letting it land as if luck has quietly nodded yes.
Real Context
Lucky is an adjective that describes someone or something that seems to have good fortune, often due to chance rather than planning. It covers moments when outcomes turn out well, such as winning a prize, avoiding a problem, or stumbling upon a helpful discovery. In everyday speech you might say you were lucky to catch the bus, or that it was a lucky break. The word carries a positive tone, but it can imply luck is unpredictable or out of one’s control. Learners should distinguish luck from talent or skill, and notice collocations like lucky streak, lucky charm, and bad luck.
Usage Reminders
- Be careful not to conflate lucky with skilled or deserved outcomes.
- Use 'lucky' for chance events, not for things earned by effort.
- Remember the structure be lucky to + verb or it is lucky that + clause.
- Mix with collocations like lucky break, lucky number, and lucky charm.
- Avoid overusing 'very lucky' in formal writing; consider 'fortunate' instead.
- Pronounce LUH-kee with the first syllable stressed.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing luck with talent or effort; thinking lucky means you earned it.
- Mistaking 'luck' as a personal trait rather than a situational factor.
- Using 'lucky' to describe ongoing abilities rather than a one-off event.
- Overusing 'very lucky' in formal writing; prefer 'fortunate' for formality.
- Thinking 'lucky' always has a positive emotional tone; it can imply risky outcomes.
Thinking Differences
Think in English terms of chance and outcomes. Learners often overgeneralize luck to mean talent or effort. English favors fixed phrases like lucky break and be lucky to + verb to describe specific moments.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: lucky break, lucky number, lucky charm, lucky dip, be lucky to + verb, it's lucky that + clause.
- Differentiate be lucky to do something from It is lucky that... to avoid awkward phrasing.
- Practice with both positive and negative contexts: lucky vs unlucky.
- Listen for pronunciation: LUH-kee with emphasis on the first syllable.
- Compare with synonyms: fortunate, serendipitous, hasardous (rare); use appropriately.
- Create short dialogues focusing on everyday luck scenarios.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'lucky' mean?
A.Fruit
B.Fortunate
C.Tree
D.Dance
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'lucky' correctly?
A.He found a lucky pencil on the street.
B.The cat was very lucky to have a tail.
C.They went on a lucky vacation.
D.She won the lottery, but she wasn't lucky.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'lucky'?
A.Car
B.Sad
C.Happy
D.Tennis
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'lucky'?
A.Unlucky
B.Funny
C.Pencil
D.Yellow
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario involving luck?
A.They walked their dog in the park.
B.He bought a new car.
C.She found a four-leaf clover.
D.The sun was shining brightly.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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