notify - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
notify Word Meanings
- to inform someone about something
- to give notice or warning
- to announce or make known
notify Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
notify Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈnəʊtɪfaɪ/
US
/ˈnoʊtɪfaɪ/
notify Word Etymology
notify = no- (prefix for knowledge) + tifi (Latin 'notificare', meaning to make known). Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a messenger carrying an important note to inform you of crucial information, emphasizing the act of making it known.
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 move my finger across the screen, push the notification button, and watch the banner light up. The message changes in my mind as I hold my breath for a moment, then I set the words and send it. There’s a slight shift in the room as the other person sees the alert and I feel the talk begin to change direction. I keep track of the reply, and the flow keeps moving, learning that a simple notify can steer what comes next.
Real Context
Notify means to inform someone about something, often in a formal or official way. You notify people to tell them about changes, upcoming events, or warnings, rather than just telling them casually. The verb is commonly used with prepositions such as notify someone of something or notify that something has happened; you can also use be notified to mean you receive information from an official source. In business and government, notices are sent to ensure everyone is aware of a decision, deadline, or safety instruction. Examples include a manager notifying staff of a schedule change or a city notifying residents of road work. The word carries a sense of obligation and formality.
Usage Reminders
- • Use notify for official or formal information.
- • Notify someone of something, or notify that something has happened.
- • Be notified means you receive information from an official source.
- • Pair with future changes, warnings, or announcements.
- • Do not confuse with inform in casual speech.
Common Misconceptions
- Notify is not the same as inform; inform is broader and casual often.
- Notify is not used for small, everyday tips or reminders unless official.
- You notify someone of something, not 'notify to someone'.
- Be notified is passive; it means you receive notice, not take action.
- Mistaking 'notice' (a noun) for the verb form can mislead usage.
Thinking Differences
Notify sounds formal and official in English, often used in workplaces or laws; learners tend to overuse it in casual chat or confuse it with inform. Focus on collocations: notify someone of something; be notified.
Learning Tips
- Learn the two main patterns: notify someone of something and notify that something happened.
- Distinguish notify from inform; reserve notify for official or formal notices.
- Practice be notified by reading official emails or letters.
- Use passive be notified in contexts like 'you will be notified soon'.
- Remember common collocations: notify someone of a change, notify residents, notify customers.
- Check prepositions carefully to avoid awkward 'notify to someone'.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'notify'?
A.Confused
B.Inform
C.Ignore
D.Excite
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'notify' used correctly?
A.Please notify me what time we are meeting tomorrow.
B.He was excited to receive the notify about his exam results.
C.She decided to ignore the email and notify her boss later.
D.I am confused about who will notify us about the schedule.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'notify'?
A.Hide
B.Explain
C.Forget
D.Alert
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'notify'?
A.Conceal
B.Reveal
C.Convince
D.Question
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life scenario would you need to notify someone?
A.Informing your teacher about an absence
B.Announcing a surprise party
C.Sending a birthday invitation
D.Telling your friend a joke
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