mint - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
mint Word Meanings
- to create coins
- to produce a fresh smell
- a place where coins are made
mint Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
mint Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/mɪnt/
US
/mɪnt/
mint Word Etymology
mint: minte (Old English) = mint (root) + -ing (suffix) → Latin 'moneta' (meaning 'coin'). Imagine a shiny new coin being struck and the fresh mint aroma wafting around as it enters the world.
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 InputReal Context
Mint can be both a verb and a noun. As a verb, to mint means to produce coins, especially by stamping metal and officially adding value. It is often used in discussions about government finance or historical references to the way currencies were minted. As a verb in a broader sense, people sometimes say a product or city “mints” money by creating new value, though this is more metaphorical. The phrase to mint a minty aroma describes something that releases a fresh, cool scent similar to peppermint. As a noun, mint refers to the place where coins are made, the institution responsible for coin production. The word also appears in phrases like “mint condition,” meaning pristine.
Usage Reminders
- Use mint as a verb with objects like coins or products
- Remember mint condition is about objects, not feelings or smells
- Distinguish mint from minty as a flavor descriptor
- Acknowledge mint as a place: a mint is where coins are made
- Be aware of metaphorical uses: to mint value or money
- Check collocations like minted coins, minting, and minting process
Common Misconceptions
- Mint only means a flavor (mint/menthol).
- Mint is only a flavor term in everyday speech.
- Mint condition always refers to people, not objects.
- Mint and money are the same thing in all contexts.
- The minting process is instantaneous and simple.
Thinking Differences
English learners benefit from recognizing mint's distinct senses and fixed phrases; it often helps to memorize key collocations like minted coins and mint condition to avoid confusion.
Learning Tips
- Look for mint in finance vs. scent contexts to build sense separation
- Pair with coins or products to practice the verb sense
- Note fixed phrases like mint condition
- Use a coin or mint factory example to anchor meaning
- Practice transforming sentences between coinage and scent metaphors
- Create your own sentences using both senses
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'mint'?
A.A place to make money
B.An herb with a strong smell
C.A type of candy
D.A metal currency
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'mint' used correctly?
A.He earned a lot of mint from his lemonade stand.
B.The criminal wanted to rob the mint.
C.She planted mint in her garden to use in cooking.
D.The teacher asked the students to mint the historic event.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'mint'?
A.Lavender
B.Basil
C.Cinnamon
D.Grape
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'mint'?
A.Stale
B.Cherish
C.Celebrate
D.Create
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you find 'mint'?
A.Coin collecting
B.Rock climbing
C.Baking cookies
D.Skiing
Related Listening
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