missions - Master This Word
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missions Word Meanings
- a specific task or duty
- a religious assignment
- an important goal or purpose
missions Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
missions Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈmɪʃən/
US
/ˈmɪʃən/
missions Word Etymology
Mission = missio (Latin) = sending. Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a group of explorers setting out on a long journey with a specific purpose to uncover new lands and knowledge.
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 grip the map and pull the edge tight, then I push off and start moving toward the distant sign. The hands, feet, and breath settle into a rhythm as I adjust my route and keep my eyes ahead. It feels like a small task gaining color and purpose, the effort turning into a larger plan taking shape inside me. The mission grows from that movement, a decision to stay the course and place each step toward the goal.
Real Context
Mission is a versatile word in English. It can refer to a specific task or duty assigned to someone, such as a field mission or a project with clear steps; it can also denote a religious assignment, like a mission trip, where the focus is outreach and service. More often, though, mission describes an important goal or purpose that guides actions, for example a company's mission to innovate responsibly or a personal mission to help others. The term appears in common phrases like mission statement, mission-driven, and go on a mission. Pronunciation is /ˈmɪʃən/, with stress on the first syllable. Be aware of related but distinct words like commission and missionary.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Distinguish mission as a concrete task vs a broad purpose. 2) Use mission statement for organizational goals. 3) Say you are going on a mission for travel or assignment. 4) Pronounce /ˈmɪʃən/. 5) Don’t confuse with commission or missionary.
Common Misconceptions
- Mission is only a religious duty.
- Mission means the same as commission.
- A mission must involve travel or going somewhere.
- You cannot have multiple missions at the same time.
- The pronunciation is always miss-ee-on.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Practice with mission statements from real companies
- Notice collocations: mission-driven, go on a mission
- Differentiate mission from related words like commission
- Use plural form missions in appropriate contexts
- Record yourself pronouncing the word to fix stress on the first syllable
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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