poison - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
poison Word Meanings
- a substance that can cause harm or death
- to taint or corrupt something
- to cause a harmful effect
poison Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
poison Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpɔɪ.zən/
US
/ˈpɔɪ.zən/
poison Word Etymology
poison = poson (fish poison) + -in (substance). Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a vial filled with a dangerous liquid, warning people to stay away.
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 a bottle, twist the cap, and keep my hand steady. As I tilt it a touch, a sharp nerve prick passes my nose, I pull back and adjust my stance. The room grows heavier and I weigh the risk, setting the bottle aside with care. In that moment, the word poison drifts into my thoughts, and I choose caution, letting safety hold fast.
Real Context
Poison is a substance that can cause harm or death when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. In everyday English, poison as a noun refers to any toxic material with a clear sense of danger, while as a verb it means to contaminate, injure, or cause harm, sometimes accidentally. The word's history traces back to older word forms in Latin and French, shaping the modern sense of danger and malice. People encounter poison in warnings, medical information, and forensic contexts, where precise dosage and symptoms matter. Metaphorically, someone might say a rumor or policy poisons a situation, signaling corruption or damaging influence.
Usage Reminders
- - Remember poison is a noun for a toxic material and a verb for causing harm;
- - Distinguish poison from poisonous and toxic;
- - Use warnings and medical contexts to show seriousness;
- - Be careful with metaphorical uses that imply corruption;
- - Check dosage, exposure route, and legal context in discussions.
Common Misconceptions
- All toxic substances are poisons, which is not always true.
- Poison and toxic are interchangeable in everyday speech.
- Something toxic cannot be poisonous to a person if it's not ingested.
- Poison always acts quickly, which is false.
- Metaphors like 'poisoning the atmosphere' are not literal usage.
Thinking Differences
In English, poison centers on a concrete toxic substance or a deliberate act, with a strong safety/legal context; learners often mix up toxin-related words and overextend metaphors.
Learning Tips
- Learn the two senses (noun and verb) separately in context.
- Make verb collocations with common agents (poison someone, poison gas).
- Contrast poison with poisonous and toxic in real examples.
- Practice warning labels and medical contexts.
- Use metaphors carefully, noting when not literal.
- Review etymology to remember the sense of danger.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'poison' mean?
A.A delicious food
B.An important message
C.A harmful substance
D.A new invention
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'poison' correctly?
A.She enjoyed sipping on poison apple juice.
B.The chef prepared a poison-free dinner.
C.He sent a poison thanking note.
D.The cat purrs when he smells poison.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which is a synonym for 'poison'?
A.Heal
B.Cure
C.Venom
D.Wholesome
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which is an antonym for 'poison'?
A.Harmless
B.Pure
C.Healthy
D.Safe
Step 5: Mastery
In what situation would someone need to identify a poisonous substance?
A.Cooking a delicious meal
B.Taking a relaxing bath
C.Exploring in the wilderness
D.Creating a beautiful painting
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