puerile - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
puerile Word Meanings
- childish or immature
- lacking seriousness
- silly or trivial
puerile Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
puerile Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpjʊəraɪl/
US
/ˈpjʊr.aɪl/
puerile Word Etymology
Root decomposition: puer = child + -ile = capable of. Historical origin: Latin puerilis → Old French pueril → English puerile. Memory image: Picture a child clumsily trying to act serious in an adult setting, highlighting their natural immaturity.
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
Puerile is a formal, pejorative adjective meaning childish or immature, often applied to actions or arguments rather than to people directly. It signals a failure to show maturity and seriousness, and it can feel sharp or condescending when used about behavior. In serious writing you might call a proposal puerile or a complaint puerile, and you may also describe someone's conduct as puerile to emphasize its frivolity. Learners should note that it does not describe children; it critiques adult conduct. It is less common in everyday speech and can sound pompous if overused. Typical collocations include puerile reasoning and puerile jokes, often opposed to thoughtful, mature argument.
Usage Reminders
- Avoid overusing it; reserve for critique in serious writing
- Not for describing children or light humor
- Pair with nouns like reasoning or jokes to sound precise
- Watch for tone; it can feel harsh
- Use in formal contexts rather than everyday conversation
- Remember its strict negative nuance
Common Misconceptions
- It describes people rather than their behavior
- It can be used for children
- It means funny or entertaining
- It is casual and common in everyday speech
- It has no strong negative tone
Thinking Differences
In English, puerile is a sharp, formal critique of adult behavior or arguments; learners often overuse it or apply it to people when describing children, so it can sound pretentious instead of precise.
Learning Tips
- Study with formal writing in mind
- Compare with similar terms like childish and immature
- Avoid using with children
- Watch for tone in critiques
- Practice replacing with precise nouns (reasoning, behavior)
- Listen for native intuition in acceptability
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'puerile'?
A.Lively
B.Immature
C.Intelligent
D.Generous
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'puerile' used correctly?
A.She made a puerile effort to solve the problem.
B.He displayed puerile manners at the formal event.
C.The puerile puppy was full of energy.
D.The teacher praised the student for their puerile behavior.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'puerile'?
A.Sophisticated
B.Sensible
C.Mature
D.Childish
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'puerile'?
A.Immature
B.Mature
C.Juvenile
D.Naive
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would someone be described as 'puerile'?
A.Presenting a professional business plan
B.Attending a university lecture
C.Playing games with friends
D.Volunteering at a charity event
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