marriage - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
marriage Word Meanings
- The legally recognized union of two people.
- A ceremony in which two people are united.
- The state of being married.
marriage Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
marriage Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈmærɪdʒ/
US
/ˈmɛrɪdʒ/
marriage Word Etymology
marriage = mari- (to marry) + -age (noun forming) from Latin matrimonium → Old French mariage → English marriage. Imagine two people standing hand in hand under a beautiful arch, symbolizing their union.
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 across the table and hold my partner's hand, feeling warmth rise into my fingertips. We move closer, the room narrowing to just us as the idea of a shared life begins to settle. I notice the small decisions weaving together—the promises we keep, the routines we adjust, the plans we set—like objects sliding into a common space. In that quiet moment, the word gathers around us not as a label but as a new sense of being together.
Real Context
Marriage is the legally recognized union of two people, often accompanied by social, religious, or cultural expectations. In everyday English, the word can refer to the institution itself, the state of being married, or the ceremony that joins a couple. People talk about marriage as a lifelong partnership, as well as a legal contract that determines rights and duties such as inheritance, taxation, and parental responsibility. When learners say we got married or our marriage, they are focusing on different aspects: the act of tying the knot versus the commitment or legal status. Context matters for formality and tone.
Usage Reminders
- marriage can refer to the institution, the state of being married, or the ceremony.
- Remember to pair with adjectives like legal, religious, or formal to clarify meaning.
- Distinguish to marry (verb) from marriage (noun).
- Avoid translating marriage as a specific ritual; context matters.
- Cultural differences affect how marriage is described in different countries.
Common Misconceptions
- Marriage equals a wedding alone and nothing more.
- To marry and marriage always refer to the same thing.
- Marriage guarantees lifelong happiness.
- Marriage is the same as dating and getting serious only for youth.
- All cultures define marriage in exactly the same way.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, marriage is a flexible concept covering institution, status, and ceremony. Learners often mix up to marry with marriage, or assume wedding equals marriage. Focus on context and collocations to choose the right sense, and watch for cultural differences in how rights and obligations of marriage are discussed.
Learning Tips
- Label contexts clearly: institution, status, and ceremony.
- Practice sentences that pair to marry with the correct sense.
- Note collocations: lasting marriage, marriage contract, civil marriage.
- Compare formal and informal usage in real dialogues.
- Watch for cultural nuances in rights and duties.
- Use authentic examples from news or interviews.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'marriage'?
A.Type of food
B.Union between two people
C.Transportation method
D.Piece of furniture
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'marriage' correctly?
A.Alice decided to eat a marriage for dinner.
B.The wedding was a celebration of their marriage.
C.John drove his marriage to work.
D.Sara bought a new marriage for her living room.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'marriage'?
A.Contract
B.Dessert
C.Car
D.Shoes
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'marriage'?
A.Sleep
B.Education
C.Divorce
D.Friendship
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario related to 'marriage'?
A.Attending a graduation ceremony
B.Starting a new job
C.Going on a vacation
D.Buying a house
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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