quality - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
quality Word Meanings
- the standard of something as measured against other things
- a characteristic or feature
- the degree of excellence of something
quality Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
quality Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkwɒl.ɪ.ti/
US
/ˈkwɑː.lə.ti/
quality Word Etymology
qua- = of or relating to, lity = state or condition. Originated from Latin 'qualitas' → Old French 'qualité' → English. Picture a fine wine's taste, comparing it to an average one to assess its quality.
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 start with a hand on the knob, turn it slowly and listen to how the device responds. I move from rough to smooth, adjust the settings, and push a little farther to feel the edge. Holding my breath, I compare the result with what I expect, keeping the pace steady. As the finish settles in, quality emerges as a felt standard—the way careful work lands with clarity and care.
Real Context
Quality is a noun that describes the standard or excellence of something, usually measured against a benchmark, a customer expectation, or a set of specifications. It can refer to a concrete feature, such as the build quality of a device, or to a more abstract dimension, like the quality of life in a city. We talk about high quality and low quality, and we use phrases like quality control, quality assurance, and quality standards to describe processes that ensure products and services meet expectations. Quality can also refer to a character trait in people, for example 'she has a high quality of judgment.' When comparing items, English often pairs quality with adjectives rather than with quantities, which is a common learner pitfall.
Usage Reminders
- Use quality with adjectives (high quality, low quality) rather than with quantity
- Think of quality of life and quality of workmanship, not quantities of items
- Pair quality with standard/feature when describing product specs
- When describing a person, say a quality of leadership rather than leadership quantity
- Be careful with 'quality' as a countable noun; it is often uncountable when talking about overall standard
- Remember common collocations: quality control, quality assurance, quality standards
Common Misconceptions
- Quality is the same as quantity
- Quality always means perfection
- Quality only refers to products, not people
- Quality cannot be discussed without a measure or standard
- Quality of life must be a subjective feeling
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: English treats quality as a standard, feature, or trait, with many fixed collocations like quality control.
Learning Tips
- Know the difference between quality (standard) and quantity (amount)
- Use high quality/low quality, not a high quantity of quality
- Pair quality with nouns like life, workmanship, product
- Learn common phrases: quality control, quality assurance, quality standards
- When assessing people, use a quality of character, not a count
- Remember quality of life is a fixed expression; do not translate literally
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'quality' used correctly?
A.She loves quality food.
B.She buys clothes of great quality.
C.She is a quality student.
D.She lives in a quality house.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'quality'?
A.Rarity
B.Excellence
C.Quantity
D.Mediocrity
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'quality'?
A.Purity
B.Superiority
C.Quantity
D.Defectiveness
Step 5: Mastery
How important is 'quality' in a product or service?
A.Not important at all
B.Somewhat important
C.Unnecessary
D.Very important
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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