organism - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
organism Word Meanings
- a living creature
- any individual form of life
- a system with interconnected parts
organism Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
organism Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈɔːɡənɪzəm/
US
/ˈɔrgənɪzəm/
organism Word Etymology
organism = organ + ismus (from Greek 'organon' meaning 'tool, instrument, or organ'). The term originated from Greek and passed through Latin and French into English. Imagine a complex machine where all the parts work together, like a heart pumping blood in a living body, symbolizing life itself.
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 organism is a living being that can grow, reproduce, respond to stimuli, and maintain homeostasis. The term covers every form of life from single cells to complex multicellular creatures. In science, an organism is often described as an integrated system with parts such as organs, tissues, and cells that work together to sustain life. The concept contrasts with non-living systems and with abstract ideas like a machine, reminding learners that life is a property of the whole organism rather than any single part. When describing scientific study, we refer to organisms as units of biology, ecology, and evolution.
Usage Reminders
- - Remember that an organism is a living whole, not just a part.
- - Use organism for living beings, and 'cell' or 'organ' for individual parts.
- - In biology, organisms range from single cells to complex animals and plants.
- - A living system can be called an organism when its parts function together.
- - Be careful not to mix 'organism' with 'organization' or 'organ'.
Common Misconceptions
- Organism equals an organ or a machine, not a living being.
- Organism only means animals.
- All organisms are large multicellular creatures.
- A system can be an organism if parts interact.
- Organism is the same as a species.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker that organism refers to a whole living being, not a body part, and that life is a property of the entire organism.
Learning Tips
- Read biology passages to see how 'organism' is used in context.
- Compare 'organism' with 'organ' and with 'organization' to keep meanings straight.
- Create a mini-glossary of synonyms like living being, creature, and life form.
- Practice with examples from animals, plants, and microbes.
- Look for common collocations such as 'homeostasis of the organism' or 'environmental requirements of the organism'.
- Record and listen to your own sentences to improve pronunciation and rhythm.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'organism'?
A.A type of bird
B.A living being
C.A piece of furniture
D.A musical instrument
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'organism' correctly?
A.She played the organism beautifully.
B.He fixed the organism with a hammer.
C.The doctor studied the organism under the microscope.
D.The dog barked at the organism.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'organism'?
A.Plant
B.Creature
C.Mineral
D.Inanimate object
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'organism'?
A.Living being
B.Dead matter
C.Human
D.Pet
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you likely encounter the word 'organism'?
A.At a car repair shop
B.At the zoo observing animals
C.In a library reading books
D.At a computer coding class
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