muscular - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
muscular Word Meanings
- having well-developed muscles
- pertaining to muscles
- strong and physically powerful
muscular Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
muscular Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈmʌs.kjə.lə/
US
/ˈməs.kjə.lɚ/
muscular Word Etymology
muscular = musculus (little mouse = muscle) + -ar (related to). Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a mouse scurrying under your skin as it makes your muscles strong; visualize flexing powerful biceps to display strength.
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
Muscular describes someone or something with well developed muscles. It is usually used to talk about a person’s physique, for example a muscular build, muscular arms, or muscular legs. It implies strength and athleticism, but it does not automatically guarantee power in every situation. Muscular is an adjective that contrasts with the noun muscle, or with non-muscular bodies. In everyday speech you might say a muscular athlete or a muscular frame, while a non-muscular body could be called slim or lean. Visualizing a muscle under the skin helps recall the etymology—from musculus, meaning muscle—while focusing on the appearance of strength in the body.
Usage Reminders
- Use muscular to describe physique, not actions; pair with body parts; avoid implying aggression; distinguish from muscle as a noun; common collocations include muscular build and muscular arms; think visuals of strength.
Common Misconceptions
- Muscular only describes men; it can describe anyone with well-developed muscles.
- Muscular implies extreme size or aggression in every context.
- Muscular is interchangeable with strong or powerful in all sentences.
- Muscular refers to action or movement rather than appearance.
- Muscular should be used instead of muscularity when describing a person.
Thinking Differences
English speakers picture muscular as a visible, physical trait of strength; other languages may tie it more to athletic ability or body ideals, so learners might overfocus on appearance or misplace it with general strength.
Learning Tips
- Pair muscular with body parts: muscular arms, muscular legs.
- Compare with the noun muscle to avoid misuse.
- Use in positive fitness contexts to describe appearance.
- Note that muscular does not guarantee strength in all tasks.
- Practice with both athletic and everyday descriptions.
- Visualize the muscle under the skin to recall the meaning.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'muscular' used correctly?
A.The muscular man lifted the heavy weights.
B.His muscular appearance made him weak.
C.She has a muscular voice.
D.The cat is muscular.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'muscular'?
A.Weak
B.Lazy
C.Slim
D.Lean
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which situation best represents 'muscular'?
A.A marathon runner finishing a race
B.A child playing with toys
C.A student reading a book
D.A bodybuilder lifting weights
Step 5: Mastery
How would you describe a person's physique using 'muscular'?
A.Strong and robust
B.Intellectual and thoughtful
C.Funny and sarcastic
D.Shy and quiet
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