notices - Master This Word
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notices Word Meanings
- to become aware of something
- to observe or perceive
- to pay attention to something
notices Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
notices Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈnəʊtɪs/
US
/ˈnoʊtɪs/
notices Word Etymology
Notice = notice (root) + -ed (past tense). Historical origin: Latin 'notitia' → Old French 'notice' → English. Memory image: Imagine someone noticing a hiding cat by making a sudden stop and staring at the hidden figure.
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 my mug aside and turn the page, my eyes move along the lines. The light shifts just enough to lift a word from the rest, and I notice it. I pause, adjust my posture, and push my attention a little closer to what it hints at. From that moment, this noticing becomes a tiny decision I carry into reading, listening, and responding.
Real Context
Notice is a versatile verb that ranges from becoming aware of something to simply observing or paying attention. It covers both moments of sudden perception ('I noticed a change in her expression') and deliberate attention ('Please notice the warning labels'). It also pairs with 'take' in phrases like 'take notice' and 'notice that...' to introduce a clause. Learners often confuse notice with 'watch' or 'see' because those verbs describe perception, but notice implies awareness or attention, sometimes with a purpose. This verb thus bridges quick awareness and sustained focus, making accurate usage context-dependent.
Usage Reminders
- Be mindful of when to use notice vs observe vs look
- Use notice to show awareness, not just sight
- Remember 'take notice of' = pay attention to a detail
- Notice that introduces a clause about new information
- Distinguish between sudden noticing and sustained attention
- Watch for phrases with notice in phrasal forms
Common Misconceptions
- Notice is not the same as simply seeing something
- Notice is not a synonym for observe in every context
- Notice does not mean the same as 'to inform' (that's a noun: notice)
- Notice can indicate awareness, not just perception
- Incorrect: 'I will notice you' or 'I noticed him' in passive contexts
Thinking Differences
In English, notice often foregrounds a moment of awareness or a directed attention, while other languages may use verbs that stress continuous attention or explicit perception; learners must map the nuance to context and avoid overgeneralizing to 'see'.
Learning Tips
- Identify common collocations (notice that, take notice of).
- Compare notice with see, look, observe in sample contexts.
- Practice noticing changes in narratives or news.
- Create your own sentences focusing on awareness vs observation.
- Watch for time-related phrases and warnings when you edit writing.
- Use flashcards for phrasal forms like notice of and notice that.
Related Listening
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