precious - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
precious Word Meanings
- valuable or highly esteemed
- beloved or cherished
- of great worth or importance
precious Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
precious Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
//ˈprɛʃ.əs/
US
//ˈprɛʃ.əs/
precious Word Etymology
precious = pre- (before) + ciosus (costly). Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a glowing gemstone, expensive and cherished, symbolizing rarity and importance.
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 cradle a worn keepsake, then move my thumb along its edge to open the lid. The room narrows to that small shine, and I feel the moment change from casual to treasured. I hold it close, set my breath, and adjust my grip so the memory stays safe. In hands like this, precious becomes what I guard and keep near every day.
Real Context
Precious describes both value in money or worth and deep personal significance. In everyday English we speak of precious metals and precious stones to signal high monetary value, and we say a person or moment is precious when it is greatly valued or cherished. Learners often confuse it with expensive, or overstate it as flippant. Use it with nouns that are cherished or of high importance: precious time, precious memory, a precious friend. Note that we can intensify with very or highly, and with to emphasize personal attachment: you are precious to me. The nuance shifts from price to value and affection depending on context.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: 1) precious is not the same as expensive; 2) pair with time/memory/people, not just goods; 3) use to express emotional value with to me/to you; 4) avoid overusing in formal writing; 5) choose very or highly to intensify; 6) contrast with priceless when the value is inexpressible.
Common Misconceptions
- Precious always means expensive; it does not.
- You can use precious for any person without emotional nuance.
- Precious and priceless are interchangeable in every context.
- Itonly applies to objects, not memories or time.
- Using precious with negative or sarcastic tone is never acceptable.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: precious covers both value (money/quality) and affection; emphasize contexts where it denotes sentiment vs price.
Learning Tips
- Practice with collocations: precious time, precious memory, precious metal.
- Differentiate with priceless when the value is beyond price.
- Use in personal contexts with to me or to you.
- Avoid using it to mean simply expensive; reserve for emotion or intrinsic value.
- Pair with adjectives like very or incredibly for emphasis.
- Compare scenes: museum objects vs beloved people to see natural usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'precious'?
A.Harmful
B.Ordinary
C.Empty
D.Valuable
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'precious' used correctly?
A.His careless attitude towards his work was truly precious.
B.The polluted river was a precious sight to see.
C.She always kept her precious memories in a locked box.
D.The teacher scolded the students for their precious behavior.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'precious'?
A.Worthless
B.Common
C.Invaluable
D.Dangerous
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what context would you describe something as 'precious'?
A.A rare and valuable gemstone
B.A dirty and common rock
C.A harmful and toxic substance
D.A meaningless and empty gesture
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life situation where 'precious' would be used to describe something?
A.Reflecting on childhood memories
B.Throwing away garbage
C.Ignoring a loved one's birthday
D.Destroying important documents
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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