outlets - Master This Word
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outlets Word Meanings
- An opening for the passage of something, such as air or electricity.
- A store or shop that sells goods directly to the public.
- A means of expression or release.
outlets Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
outlets Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈaʊt.lɪt/
US
/ˈaʊt.lɛt/
outlets Word Etymology
out- = external + let = allow (Old English). Origin: Middle English through Old French. Imagine an electric socket where you can connect and release energy, similar to letting it out.
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 reach for the plug and move my wrist to line it up with the wall outlet. I push it in, feel the click, then adjust my grip as the current settles. The room brightens and energy finds an outlet, a place where I can direct it. Later I walk into an outlet shop and, as the racks unfold, I let my hands take hold of what I want and set my pace.
Real Context
Outlet is a versatile English word with three main senses. First, it describes an opening that allows something to pass through, such as an air vent, a water outlet, or an electrical outlet. Second, it denotes a store that sells goods directly to the public, often at discounted prices, like an outlet mall or factory outlet. Third, outlet can mean a means of expression or release, a channel through which feelings, energy, or creativity can be shown or vented. Learners should note the common collocations: power outlet, outlet store, emotional outlet. Be careful not to confuse outlet with exit, inflow, or outlet as a verb.
Usage Reminders
- Use outlet for openings or passages; use power/electrical outlet for electricity; use outlet store for discounted goods; use emotional/creative outlet for release; avoid treating outlet as a verb; don’t confuse with exit or outlet as a synonym of vent.
Common Misconceptions
- Outlet is only a shop.
- Outlet always means electricity.
- Emotional outlet is the same as venting anger.
- Outlet can be a verb.
- Confusing outlet with exit or outlet as a channel.
Thinking Differences
In English, outlet spans concrete physical senses (hole, store, release) and relies on context for disambiguation. Learners often assume all meanings relate to shopping or exits, and may miss the idea of an emotional or creative channel.
Learning Tips
- memorize three main senses separately
- collocate with power outlet, outlet store, emotional outlet
- practice distinguishing physical openings vs stores
- note common synonyms and opposites (exit, inlet)
- listen for context clues in conversation
- use real-world examples to reinforce sense shifts
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