nose - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
nose Word Meanings
- The organ used for smelling.
- The front part of the face.
- To inclinate or poke into something.
nose Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
nose Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/nəʊz/
US
/noʊz/
nose Word Etymology
nose = no- (related to smell) + se (an ancient root). Originates from Old English 'nosu', which has roots in Latin 'nasus'. Picture a dog sniffing the air with its nose to remember its importance in sensing 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 InputEnglish Brain Route
I rest my hand near my nose and gently move my fingers to test the space on my face. I breathe in and adjust my breath, letting the air pass through the nose as I keep my focus there. The nose sits there, steady and ordinary, a small anchor for smell and breath. When I lean, turn, or nudge forward, I adjust the angle, and the nose becomes the doorway where scent and air meet my daily life.
Real Context
Nose is a short, versatile word with concrete and metaphorical meanings. It refers to the organ used for smelling, and to the front part of the face. It also appears in verbs like nose into something, meaning to push or intrude, and in phrases about sensing or perceiving. In everyday use, people describe smells, talk about a runny nose, or describe actions such as noseing around (informally). The word is involved in many idioms, such as keep your nose clean or have a nose for news. Spelling is nose; plural noses. Learners often mix it up with nostril (the opening of the nose) and with related terms like nasal or nasally.
Usage Reminders
- Pronounce nose as /noʊz/.
- Differentiate nose from nostril and nasal-related words.
- Use nose in two main senses: body part and to poke or intrude (nose into).
- Learn common phrases: runny nose, nose for news, keep your nose clean.
- Avoid confusing homophones like know/knows/noes.
Common Misconceptions
- Nose is only about smelling; it has no other uses.
- To nose into something is a common, everyday verb elsewhere.
- Nostril and nose are the same thing.
- Noses always refer to one person; noses always plural.
- Nose sounds like noes or knows in speech.
Thinking Differences
English treats nose as both a concrete body part and a base for many idioms and phrasal verbs. Learners often focus on smelling alone and miss expressions like nose into something or nose around. The metaphoric uses tie into perception and judgment, which may not map directly to learners’ languages.
Learning Tips
- Practice the /noʊz/ pronunciation with rhymes like rose and hose.
- Learn nose as both a body part and a verb in phrases like nose into something.
- memorize common phrases: runny nose, nose for news, keep your nose clean.
- Distinguish nose from nostril and nasal terms.
- Use real contexts: describe smells, weather, or facial features.
- Practice to avoid confusing nose with knows (homophone).
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence below uses the word 'nose' correctly?
A.The cat licked its nose with its paws.
B.The book fell on my nose while I was reading.
C.I can hear a nose coming from the kitchen.
D.She wore a dress with a nose pattern.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'nose'?
A.Eyes
B.Ear
C.Hand
D.Mouth
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'nose'?
A.Foot
B.Chin
C.Elbow
D.Forehead
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario involving a 'nose'?
A.The flowers in the garden looked beautiful under the bright sun.
B.The chef used his sense of smell to determine if the food was cooked properly.
C.I enjoy listening to music while walking in the park.
D.He wore a hat to protect his head from the sun.
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