nuisance - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
nuisance Word Meanings
- something that causes inconvenience or annoyance
- a person or thing causing trouble
- a legal term for an interference with someone's enjoyment of property
nuisance Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
nuisance Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈnjuːs(ə)ns/
US
/ˈnuːs(ə)ns/
nuisance Word Etymology
nuisance = nuire (to harm) + ance (noun suffix); from Old French 'nuisance', derived from Latin 'noxiam' (harmful). Picture someone spilling a drink and ruining a gathering, bringing that feeling of annoyance and inconvenience.
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
nuisance (noun) refers to something that causes inconvenience or annoyance, or to a person or thing that causes trouble. In everyday speech it is often used for trivial irritations, like a noisy neighbor or a recurring small annoyance, but in law it describes an interference with someone’s use or enjoyment of their property; a nuisance may be private (affecting a person or business) or public (affecting the community). Learners should note that nuisance is countable: 'a nuisance' or 'two nuisances', and it can be used metaphorically: 'What a nuisance!' The word carries a slightly formal tone in legal contexts or in careful formal writing.
Usage Reminders
- Nuisance is usually countable: 'a nuisance', 'two nuisances'.
- Distinguish everyday nuisance from legal nuisance.
- Common collocations: nuisance to someone, public/private nuisance, nuisance value.
- Not a strong insult; mostly about inconvenience.
- Use 'What a nuisance!' as a casual exclamation.
Common Misconceptions
- Nuisance means dirt or impurity.
- Only a person can be a nuisance.
- It always has legal consequences.
- It is always used to express strong insult.
- It cannot be used to describe everyday annoyances.
Thinking Differences
Nuisance is a familiar word to English speakers, balancing everyday irritation with a potential legal sense; learners should note the flexibility and the formal tone in legal contexts.
Learning Tips
- Learn nuisance as a countable noun; plural nuisances exists.
- Keep straight the everyday sense vs the legal sense.
- Pair with close synonyms: bother, annoyance, disturbance.
- Recognize common phrases: what a nuisance, nuisance to someone, public/private nuisance.
- Be mindful of tone: nuisance is neutral to slightly formal, not a strong insult.
- Watch spelling: not related to nauseous.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'nuisance'?
A.Peace
B.Delight
C.Excitement
D.Annoyance
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'nuisance' used correctly?
A.The beach was a nuisance place to relax.
B.The party was a nuisance of fun.
C.She enjoyed the nuisance of music.
D.Everyone found his jokes a nuisance.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'nuisance'?
A.Joy
B.Harmony
C.Pleasure
D.Bother
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an opposite word of 'nuisance'?
A.Happiness
B.Excitement
C.Peace
D.Calm
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life situation where 'nuisance' might occur?
A.Taking a relaxing walk
B.Winning a prize
C.Reading a good book
D.Dealing with a noisy neighbor
Related Listening
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