prey - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
prey Word Meanings
- an animal hunted for food
- victim of a predator
- something or someone that is exploited or harmed
prey Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
prey Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/preɪ/
US
/preɪ/
prey Word Etymology
prey (from Latin 'praeda', meaning loot/spoils) → Old French 'preie' → English. Imagine a small animal caught in the clutches of a larger predator, emphasizing the vulnerability of the prey.
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
Shift your weight, eyes scanning the grass as you move your feet, listening for footsteps. A shadow edges closer; you turn your head, pull back a little, and hold your breath to stay quiet. The moment tightens, your pulse quickens and you adjust your stance, ready to react. In that hush, what you are becomes clear not by words but by the urge to hide, the feel of prey under a hunter's gaze.
Real Context
Prey refers to an animal hunted for food, a victim of a predator, or something or someone that is exploited or harmed. As a noun it denotes the object of predation, for example a deer is prey to wolves; as a verb phrase, to prey on means to exploit, harass, or harm, often by deceit. The word carries a sense of vulnerability and imbalance of power, and it appears in wildlife discussions as well as in metaphorical uses about people or groups being taken advantage of. Common collocations include predator and prey, prey on, and preyed upon; note that the word can be uncountable when talking about animal groups, remaining the same in plural form.
Usage Reminders
- Remember prey is the object of predation; prey is also a verb in the phrase prey on; avoid confusing prey with predator; use prey on for exploitation; treat prey as uncountable when talking about animals in general; check whether you mean the animal or the act of exploiting.
Common Misconceptions
- Prey is never used for humans in any context.
- Prey and predator are always opposites in nature, not depending on context.
- Prey as a verb only means to hunt, not to harm or exploit.
- All animals are prey to something bigger, which is not always true in controlled ecosystems.
- Prey can be plural in everyday use, not just as an uncountable noun.
Thinking Differences
English often treats prey as a concrete object in wildlife and as a vivid metaphor for vulnerability; learners must distinguish literal prey from symbolic prey on.
Learning Tips
- Label prey as animal target in wildlife contexts
- Practice using prey on in sentences about exploitation
- Differentiate plural prey from animal groups
- Mix examples of literal vs metaphorical prey
- Use collocations like predator and prey to recall roles
- Review common phrases and test with translations
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'prey'?
A.Predator
B.Hunted animal
C.Water
D.Sky
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'prey' used correctly?
A.She preyed on her little sister.
B.The tiger is a predator.
C.The prey was hiding in the bushes.
D.He saw a flying prey.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'prey'?
A.Happy
B.Hunt
C.Friend
D.Answer
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite meaning of 'prey'?
A.Hunter
B.Food
C.Ally
D.Predator
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would the word 'prey' be used?
A.Swimming in a pool
B.Baking a cake
C.Bird watching
D.Playing video games
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