monuments - Master This Word
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monuments Word Meanings
- a structure built to remember a person or event
- a lasting symbol of an event
- a significant historical building or site
monuments Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
monuments Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈmɒn.jə.mənt/
US
/ˈmɑːn.jə.mənt/
monuments Word Etymology
monu- = remind, ment = result of; Latin 'monumentum' from 'monere' meaning to remind. Picture a massive stone slab that commands attention, memorializing something significant in history.
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 step forward and move toward a quiet square, my fingers brushing the cold edge of a stone bench. I shift my gaze to a tall monument across the plaza and set my pace to take it in. I adjust my stance, pull the camera closer, and let the moment settle. In that quiet scene the sight feels like more than stone, a lasting symbol you keep watching.
Real Context
A monument is a structure, sculpture, or site built to remember a person or event. It can be a lasting symbol of a moment in history, inviting reflection or civic pride. Monuments can stand in cities, parks, or battlefields and come in many forms, from grand museums to simple plaques. The word emphasizes memory and public recognition, often tied to national or local identity. When you refer to a monument, you may also discuss its purpose, its time period, its design, and the story it tells about the past.
Usage Reminders
- Use monument as a noun for a public structure or site.
- Say 'a monument to' someone or 'a monument commemorating' an event.
- Avoid using monument to refer to private keepsakes.
- Monuments can be singular or plural: this monument, these monuments.
- Note the noun is distinct from the adjective monumental, which means 'very large' or 'of great importance'.
Common Misconceptions
- Monument always means a statue; not all monuments are statues.
- A memorial and a monument are the same thing in every context.
- Monuments are only about famous people or battles.
- A monument must be grand or old to be 'a real monument'.
- Monument is a proper noun when referring to a specific place.
Thinking Differences
In English, monument conveys public memory and civic significance; it often contrasts with more private memorials or statues. Learners may assume all monuments are statues or confuse monument with memorial, leading to awkward phrasing like 'historic memorial' when 'historic monument' is meant.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: monument to, monument commemorating, public monument.
- Differentiate monument from memorial and statue by context.
- Practice pluralization: this monument vs these monuments.
- Pronunciation: /ˈmɒn. ju. mənt/ or /ˌmɒn. jəˈmen(t)/ depending on dialect.
- Read labels on real monuments to see how description is phrased.
- Use mnemonic: think 'monu- remind, -ment as a result' to remember memory purpose.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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