membership - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
membership Word Meanings
- the state of being a member
- a group or organization of which one is a member
- the rights or privileges of being a member
membership Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
membership Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈmɛmbəʃɪp/
US
/ˈmɛmbərʃɪp/
membership Word Etymology
member (Latin 'membra') + ship (Old English 'sceap') = state of being a part. Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a ship full of members sailing together towards a common goal, illustrating unity and belonging.
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 push open the door and step into the room, my feet move toward the circle. I set my bag down, adjust my chair, and keep my eyes on the faces around me. A nod from someone makes the space feel a little bigger, as if the room shifts to include me. I learn what it means to belong by watching who speaks, who listens, and who lets me join the moment.
Real Context
Membership is the state of belonging to a group, organization, or community. It usually grants rights, such as voting privileges or access to events, and carries responsibilities, such as paying dues or following rules. People join for practical benefits, a sense of belonging, or the chance to connect with others in a network of specialists and supporters. The term covers formal statuses in clubs, professional associations, and online communities, as well as informal ties within a team or family. Common collocations include membership card, renewal, and lifetime membership, all signaling an ongoing relationship between the individual and the group.
Usage Reminders
- Think of membership as both belonging and the set of rights that come with it.
- Use phrases like membership card, membership fee, and renewal to express the full idea.
- Distinguish membership from a simple subscription; membership often includes status and participation, not just access.
- Be specific about the group when you mention membership (which club, organization, or community).
- Watch for possessives: say 'my membership' rather than 'the membership of X' to avoid ambiguity.
Common Misconceptions
- Membership is the same as a simple subscription.
- Becoming a member guarantees access to every event.
- Membership implies agreement with all opinions of the group.
- Membership lasts for life by default.
- Membership always costs money.
Thinking Differences
In English, membership is often framed as a durable status with specific rights and duties within a group; learners frequently confuse it with subscriptions or simply having a card, so examples should emphasize both belonging and participation.
Learning Tips
- Learn these six items: become a member, membership card, membership benefits, renewal, lifetime membership, be part of a group.
- Practice 'become a member' vs 'join a club' to express initiation.
- Use 'my membership' for personal status; 'the membership of' for belonging to a group.
- Pair with verbs like grant, award, renew to show changes in status.
- Compare with 'belonging' to emphasize shared identity.
- Create quick flashcards for common collocations.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'membership' mean?
A.Ignoring group activities
B.Expressing willingness to join
C.Belonging to a group or organization
D.Excluding others from a group
Step 2: Usage
How is 'membership' used in a sentence?
A.He applied for membership at the club.
B.They closed the membership to new applicants.
C.She ignored the membership invitation.
D.The membership was lost in the mail.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'membership'?
A.Alienation
B.Exclusion
C.Belonging
D.Distraction
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'membership'?
A.Participation
B.Separation
C.Inclusion
D.Belonging
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you encounter 'membership'?
A.Finding your way in a new city
B.Ordering food at a restaurant
C.Library card application
D.Learning a new language
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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