nobody - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
nobody Word Meanings
- no person at all
- not anyone
- a person who is not important
nobody Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
nobody Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈnəʊ.bə.di/
US
/ˈnoʊ.bɑː.di/
nobody Word Etymology
nobody = no + body (body meaning person). Originated from Old English 'nān' + 'bodig' to mean a non-existent person. Imagine a silhouette of a person disappearing into thin air with the word written above.
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 set down my bag and move into the quiet room, shoulders soft and careful. I adjust my steps, listening for a voice that might break the hush. When no one arrives and the seats stay empty, the moment leans toward me with stillness. I keep talking aloud anyway, and the space holds that nobody is there, not a single person, not even a reminder.
Real Context
Nobody is a pronoun meaning no person at all. It can function as the subject of a sentence or as a subject complement after linking verbs, and it emphasizes absence in a situation. It combines 'no' and 'body' and derives from older English forms; you may also see the formal 'no one' as an alternative. In everyday speech you can say 'Nobody showed up' or 'There is nobody here' to emphasize emptiness. Remember that 'nobody' requires a singular verb: 'Nobody is here' rather than 'Nobody are here.' In informal speech you might hear 'Nobody's coming'; in careful writing, 'No one is coming' is often preferred. The nuance is clear: absolute nonexistence, not merely a small lack of participants.
Usage Reminders
- Use nobody as a subject; it takes singular verbs.
- Don't split 'no' and 'body' in standard usage.
- Remember it's a negation: it implies not anyone.
- No need for double negatives with other negatives.
- No rhyme, just simple, natural pronunciation of 'nobody'.
- Prefer 'no one' in very formal writing or polite speech.
Common Misconceptions
- Nobody is singular, so use 'is' not 'are'.
- Don't separate 'no' and 'body' into two words.
- Think of 'nobody' as a negation, not a plural noun.
- No, you don't pair 'nobody' with a plural verb.
- No confusion with 'no body'—it's one word.
Thinking Differences
English often uses nobody as a tight negation with a clear subject and singular verb, whereas many languages use a more explicit form like no one/no person or a generic negative with the verb. Learners from languages with less explicit subject negation may over- or under-use the singular/plural agreement and struggle with when to prefer no one vs nobody.
Learning Tips
- Practice with negation: pair nobody with singular verbs.
- Compare with no one for formal contexts.
- Use contractions like Nobody's to sound natural in speech.
- Remember no plural verbs with nobody.
- Mix up everyday sentences and questions for intuition.
- Listen for tone: nobody feels informal and firm.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'nobody' used correctly?
A.Everybody is here except nobody.
B.Nobody knows the answer except Sue.
C.Nobody and everybody went to the party.
D.Nobody can go to the movies except everybody.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an opposite of 'nobody'?
A.Anyone
B.Someone
C.Somebody
D.Everybody
Step 4: Opposite Words
Can you provide a real-life context where 'nobody' would be used?
A.At a concert, someone played the drums.
B.In a classroom, somebody answered all the questions.
C.At the beach, everyone was building sandcastles.
D.At a party, nobody wanted to dance.
Step 5: Mastery
Explain the meaning of 'nobody' in your own words.
A.Friendly and outgoing
B.No one
C.Always busy
D.Very important
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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