obituary - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
obituary Word Meanings
- a notice of someone's death
- an article summarizing a person's life after death
- a formal announcement of a death
obituary Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
obituary Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈbɪtʃuəri/
US
/əˈbɪtʃuˌɛri/
obituary Word Etymology
obit- = death + -uary = related to; Latin → Middle English → English. Imagine a delicate parchment containing final words, elegantly honoring a life once lived and now passed.
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
An obituary is a notice of a death and a short biography published in newspapers, on websites, or in funeral programs. It informs the public about the passing and honors the deceased by highlighting important life events, achievements, and character. Typical details include date of death, age, surviving relatives, funeral or memorial arrangements, and sometimes the cause of death. The word comes from obit (death) and the suffix -uary, linking it to a format or record. In modern usage, obituaries also appear online as memorial pages and can serve as a concise record of a person’s life and contributions.
Usage Reminders
- Check spelling and suffix -uary
- Use formal tone, not slang
- Include key facts: date of death, age, survivors, funeral details
- Avoid sensational language
- Online obituaries can be memorial pages; treat as respectful biography
- Mind regional publication rules
Common Misconceptions
- An obituary is only about the death date and funeral time
- Obituaries are only for famous people
- An obit is the same as a gossip column
- Obituaries must be long and highly sentimental
- Obituaries exist only in print
Thinking Differences
In English, obituaries blend biographical detail with a respectful, often somewhat neutral tone. Learners may over-personalize or oversentimentalize, misplace focus on sensational aspects, or confuse obituary with a simple death notice. English also frequently uses fixed phrases like 'survived by' and standard biographical order; mastering these helps produce clear, publishable notices.
Learning Tips
- Practice the spelling: obituary
- Remember the obit + -uary etymology
- Use 'survived by' to list relatives
- Match tone to formal notices
- Differentiate obituary from death notices
- Check regional style guidelines
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'obituary'?
A.A type of flower
B.A method of cooking
C.A type of dance
D.A written report of a person's life and death
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'obituary' used correctly?
A.She received a beautiful obituary for her birthday.
B.The obituary of the new book was exciting to read.
C.They obituary the importance of exercise in their daily routine.
D.He read the obituary of his deceased relative in the newspaper.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a synonym for 'obituary'?
A.Life story
B.Exaggeration
C.Adventure
D.Celebration
Step 4: Opposite Words
What would be the opposite of an 'obituary'?
A.Biography
B.Birthday party
C.Wedding invitation
D.Inheritance
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you expect to see an 'obituary'?
A.In a magazine about fashion trends
B.In a newspaper announcing a person's death
C.In a newspaper announcing the winner of a contest
D.At a zoo during an animal show
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