popular - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
popular Word Meanings
- liked or admired by many people
- widely accepted or used
- well-known and fashionable
popular Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
popular Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpɒpjʊlə/
US
/ˈpɑpjʊlər/
popular Word Etymology
popular = popu- (from Latin 'populus' meaning 'people') + -lar (suffix meaning 'related to'). Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a large crowd of people at a concert, all joyfully united by the same hit song, showcasing how ideas or trends gather popularity among the masses.
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 push open the cafe door and slip into the buzz, watching the room shift as people settle into a common rhythm. A song drops, jokes bounce around, and soon more faces pull out their phones to share the moment, as a pattern takes hold. I adjust my pace, keep my ears open, and notice how what people actually pick up or imitate travels fast. The air feels like a signal—when many choose the same thing, it becomes popular, easy to notice and easy to copy.
Real Context
Popular is an adjective used for something that is liked or admired by many people, or for ideas and practices that are widely accepted or used. It describes items that are well known and often fashionable, such as a popular song, a popular brand, or a popular opinion. People say something is popular with a group or that a trend is gaining popularity. Note that popular does not imply perfection or superiority; it simply signals broad appeal. It is often contrasted with famous, widely known, or trendy, highlighting wide appeal rather than rarity or prestige. Common collocations include popular with, popular choice, and popular culture.
Usage Reminders
- Use popular to express broad appeal; pair with with for groups, or use as a noun via popularity. Do not mistake for famous; something can be popular without being famous. Prefer well-known or trendy when you mean widely recognized or fashionable. Common collocations include popular with, popular choice, popular culture. Remember that the root relates to people. Etymology is from Latin populus, meaning people.
Common Misconceptions
- Popular = famous; widely known does not always mean widely liked
- Something can be popular in one country but not elsewhere
- Popular describes appeal, not quality or superiority
- Confusing popular with trendy; trends can be popular temporarily
- Avoid using popular to describe niche interests
Thinking Differences
In English, popular often emphasizes broad appeal and can describe people, brands, ideas, or trends. It focuses on how many people like something, not necessarily that it is of high quality. Learners sometimes think popular equals famous, but English uses popular to stress mass liking rather than obvious notoriety.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: popular with, popular choice, popular culture.
- Compare with famous and well-known to feel the nuance.
- Practice describing items you personally find popular.
- Listen for speakers using popular in media phrasing.
- Note that popularity can vary by group or region.
- Use popularity as a noun via popularity to discuss trends.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'popular'?
A.Big
B.Purple
C.Happy
D.Famous
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'popular' used correctly?
A.She enjoys eating popular ice cream flavors.
B.The tree had popular leaves in the fall.
C.The popular singer had a sold-out concert.
D.He wore a popular hat to the party.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'popular'?
A.Unknown
B.Uncommon
C.Isolated
D.Renowned
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'popular'?
A.Common
B.Trendy
C.Obscure
D.Well-liked
Step 5: Mastery
How is the word 'popular' relevant in real-life?
A.Popular books often become bestsellers.
B.Celebrities are often popular among fans.
C.Being popular means having many friends.
D.Popularity is more important than integrity.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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