porous - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
porous Word Meanings
- having holes or spaces that allow air or liquid to pass through
- capable of absorbing or letting fluids pass
- permeable
porous Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
porous Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpɔː.rəs/
US
/ˈpɔr.əs/
porous Word Etymology
porous = por- (from Latin 'porus' meaning 'pore') + -ous (suffix denoting 'full of, characterized by'). Originated from Latin to Middle French to English. Imagine a sponge filled with tiny holes, soaking up water.
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
Porous describes a material that has tiny holes or spaces through which air or liquid can pass, like a sponge or a rock with many pores. It also refers to a surface that easily absorbs liquids. In everyday English you might say a porous brick lets rainwater seep in, or that a filter is porous because it lets water through while catching larger particles. The term emphasizes permeability rather than strength; porous objects are not airtight. It is related to permeable, but porous highlights the holes themselves rather than the overall ability to pass through. Learners should keep the distinction in mind when choosing between porous and permeable.
Usage Reminders
- Think of porous as full of tiny holes.
- Porous emphasizes holes, not speed.
- Compare porous with permeable to avoid confusion.
- Use porous for materials or surfaces that liquids can pass through.
- Porous is not the same as waterproof or airtight.
- Practice with everyday items like sponge and brick.
Common Misconceptions
- Porous = permeable or the same as permeable; not exactly
- Porous means the material leaks water under pressure in all cases
- Porous only describes absorption, not passage
- Porous applies only to solids, not membranes or surfaces
- Porous means something is automatically absorbent and waterproof
Thinking Differences
Porous vs English learners: focus on holes and the general idea of permeability; avoid assuming all porous things soak quickly.
Learning Tips
- Think of porous as full of tiny holes.
- Porous emphasizes holes, not speed.
- Compare porous with permeable to avoid confusion.
- Describe materials or surfaces that liquids can pass through.
- Porous is not the same as waterproof or airtight.
- Practice with everyday items like sponge and brick.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'porous' mean?
A.Hard
B.Permeable
C.Solid
D.Shiny
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'porous' used correctly?
A.The glass is porous and shatters easily.
B.The metal was solid and non-porous.
C.The sponge is porous and absorbs water easily.
D.The fabric is porous and durable.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'porous'?
A.Rigid
B.Transparent
C.Permeable
D.Compact
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life context would you expect to encounter something porous?
A.Concrete wall
B.Sponge
C.Metal spoon
D.Plastic bottle
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a material that is porous and explain why it is important?
A.Answer 4
B.Answer 1
C.Answer 3
D.Answer 2
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