postage - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
postage Word Meanings
- the cost of sending mail or packages
- a system for sending letters and parcels
- a fee required for postal services
postage Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
postage Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpəʊstɪdʒ/
US
/ˈpoʊstɪdʒ/
postage Word Etymology
Postage is derived from 'post' (prefix) + 'age' (suffix), originating from Latin 'posta' meaning 'post' which transitioned through Old French 'poste' to English. Picture an ancient postal worker riding a horse, carrying letters from one village to another, symbolizing the journey of mail and its associated costs.
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
Postage is the fee charged by a postal service to send letters and parcels. It describes both the cost and, in a broad sense, the system that handles mail delivery with stamps, meters, sorting offices, and delivery routes. When you buy postage, you might be buying a stamp or a digital label, or paying at a counter for a service that doesn’t require a physical stamp. In American English, 'postage' is more common for mail within a country, while 'postage rate' or 'postage fee' are used for international shipments too. Understanding postage helps you calculate mailing budgets and choose the right service level.
Usage Reminders
- - Postage is the cost to send mail, not the stamp itself.
- - Use 'postage rate' for pricing differences.
- - You can buy postage as a stamp, a meter, or a digital label.
- - For international mail, weight and destination affect postage.
- - 'Postage' is uncountable; you wouldn't say 'a postage'.
Common Misconceptions
- Postage and stamp are the same thing
- Postage is always a countable noun (a postage)
- Postage only refers to international mail
- Postage rates never change
- You must always buy postage in person at a post office
Thinking Differences
English speakers refer to postage as a cost and a system, using terms like postage rate and postage fee; common mistakes include confusing postage with stamps or treating it as countable.
Learning Tips
- Learn that postage is uncountable: you pay postage, not a postage.
- Pair postage with rate or fee when talking about price.
- Know that you can pay postage with stamps, meters, or online labels.
- Remember domestic vs international postage may differ by weight/destination.
- Use example sentences to distinguish 'postage' from 'stamp'.
- Check the service level (standard, tracked, express) as it affects postage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'postage' mean?
A.The cost of sending mail
B.A type of postage stamp
C.The speed of delivery
D.A postal service procedure
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'postage' correctly?
A.The postage was delicious at the restaurant.
B.I need to calculate the postage for this package.
C.She posted a letter with excessive postage.
D.He paid the postage in cash and change.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'postage'?
A.Shipping cost
B.Envelope
C.Freight
D.Delivery
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'postage'?
A.Refund
B.Profit
C.Loss
D.Expense
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context involving postage?
A.Taking a taxi to the airport.
B.Walking to the store to buy a drink.
C.Sending a birthday card through the mail.
D.Preparing a meal for dinner.
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