nurture - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
nurture Word Meanings
- to take care of and encourage the growth of someone or something
- the process of raising and educating
- to support or promote the development of an idea or talent
nurture Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
nurture Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈnɜːtʃə/
US
/ˈnɜr.tʃər/
nurture Word Etymology
Root: nurture = nurture (from Latin 'nutrire' meaning to feed). Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Picture a gardener gently caring for a plant, ensuring its growth by providing water and sunlight, which symbolizes nurturing and development.
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
To nurture means to take care of someone or something in a way that encourages healthy growth and development. It can refer to caring for a child, a plant, or a skill by providing nourishment, guidance, and protection. In everyday life, nurturing involves regular attention, patient feedback, and the creation of a supportive environment where needs are met and potential can flourish. Beyond persons and living things, it also describes cultivating ideas, talents, or projects—offering resources, feedback, and encouragement so they can mature. The word carries warmth and intention: growth does not happen by chance, but through consistent, attentive effort.
Usage Reminders
- • Nurture describes caring and promoting growth; avoid thinking it means spoiling someone.
- • Use with people, plants, skills, or ideas to show ongoing support.
- • It often pairs with development, education, or talent.
- • Distinguish nurture from passive care; active guidance matters.
- • In formal writing, pair nurture with growth or progress to emphasize outcome.
Common Misconceptions
- Nurture = spoiling or overprotecting
- Nurture only applies to children
- Nurture means removing all risk
- Nurture guarantees success
- Nurture is passive and requires little effort
Thinking Differences
English speakers typically view nurture as an active blend of care and purposeful development, often tied to long-term progress. Learners may confuse it with simple care or with spoiling, so show how guidance, environment, and resources are essential to growth.
Learning Tips
- Practice nurturing a habit with a 30-day plan.
- Use concrete examples to show how nurture differs from mere care.
- Pair nurturing with explicit goals and feedback.
- Notice the environment: supportive settings boost growth.
- Read about mentorship to see nurture in action.
- Create small, achievable milestones to nurture progress.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'nurture'?
A.Growth
B.Destruction
C.Dream
D.Waste
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'nurture' correctly?
A.He sought to nurture his musical talent by practicing daily.
B.The storm nurtured the city with destruction and chaos.
C.She decided to neglect her plants and not nurture them.
D.The teacher nurtured the students' curiosity by discouraging questions.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym of 'nurture'?
A.Hinder
B.Neglect
C.Foster
D.Destroy
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym of 'nurture'?
A.Encourage
B.Support
C.Protect
D.Discourage
Step 5: Mastery
How can parents nurture their child's love for learning?
A.By ignoring their child's interests
B.By criticizing their efforts
C.By limiting their exposure to new ideas
D.By actively encouraging exploration and curiosity
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