marathon - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
marathon Word Meanings
- a long-distance race of 42.195 kilometers
- an event involving great endurance
- a prolonged task or effort
marathon Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
marathon Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈmærəθən/
US
/ˈmærəθən/
marathon Word Etymology
marathon = 'marathon' (root), derived from the Battle of Marathon (490 BC) → Greek → English. Picture a Greek runner bringing news of victory from the battlefield, enduring a long run.
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 lace up my shoes, take a breath, and set my pace. I move along the road, feet finding rhythm and adjusting with every mile. The miles push and pull at my legs, I keep going as the timer counts down. When I reach the finish, the line feels like a turn in a long story, proof that endurance can carry me forward.
Real Context
Marathon is a noun that refers to a long-distance running race of 42.195 kilometers, but it is also used metaphorically to describe any task or period of effort that demands sustained endurance. In everyday speech, people say they had a marathon of meetings or a marathon study session to convey a long, exhausting stretch. The term originates from the ancient Battle of Marathon and entered English through runners who carried news of victory over a great distance. In sports writing you’ll see phrases like marathon race, marathon training, or a runner’s marathon pace.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Use marathon for long-distance running and long, demanding tasks. 2) Pair with adjectives like grueling, peak, or annual. 3) Mention 42.195 kilometers when precision matters. 4) Distinguish marathon from half-marathon; the latter is 21.0975 kilometers. 5) Common collocations: marathon race, marathon training, marathon pace.
Common Misconceptions
- Marathon always refers to the 42.195 km race rather than a long day of activities.
- The term is only used in sports and never metaphorically.
- Marathon pace is the same as sprint pace.
- A marathon is never called a 'marathon race' in English.
- You must always mention the exact distance when using marathon.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, focus on the literal distance and the wide metaphorical use. In English, marathon often pairs with endurance features (grueling, long, endless) and is common in both sports and daily life metaphors.
Learning Tips
- memorize the distance 42.195 km, but know you can use the word Marathon metaphorically
- practice common collocations: marathon race, marathon training, marathon pace
- differentiate from half-marathon (21.0975 km) and triathlons
- use adjectives like grueling, demanding, or annual with marathon
- watch/read sports news to see natural usage
- practice short phrases: run a marathon, run a marathon in a day
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'marathon'?
A.Short distance
B.Sprint
C.Long-distance running race
D.Jog
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'marathon' correctly?
A.I ate a big breakfast before the marathon.
B.I ran a marathon to catch the bus.
C.I finished the marathon in under an hour.
D.I took a marathon nap yesterday.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'marathon'?
A.Sprint
B.Hike
C.Swim
D.Bike
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'marathon'?
A.Sprint
B.Triathlon
C.Short distance
D.Relay
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context for a marathon?
A.I ran a marathon while shopping for groceries.
B.I had a marathon study session for my exam.
C.I attended a marathon business meeting that lasted hours.
D.I cooked dinner at a marathon pace.
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