quarry - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
quarry Word Meanings
- a place where stone, rock, or minerals are extracted from the ground
- a source of information or resources
- to seek or obtain something, usually by digging or searching
quarry Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
quarry Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkwɒri/
US
/ˈkwɔri/
quarry Word Etymology
(quarry) ‘quarrier’ (Latin 'carrarium' + Old French 'quarrier') → ‘a place where something is obtained.’ Imagine a bustling quarry filled with workers chiseling stone, creating masterpieces of architecture.
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
Quarry is most often a noun referring to a place where stone, rock, or minerals are extracted from the ground. It can also mean a source or supply of information, ideas, or resources that someone searches for. As a verb, to quarry means to extract material by digging or blasting, or more loosely, to search for and obtain something, usually with effort. In everyday use, people talk about a limestone quarry on the hillside, or a journalist who tries to quarry facts from officials. Note that the noun can also mean the prey being hunted, a meaning less common in modern usage but still encountered in literature.
Usage Reminders
- Remember quarry can be a place or a source.
- Use 'to quarry for information' to express active searching.
- Watch for the prey sense in old texts only.
- Pronounce as /ˈkwɒr. i/ in British English and /ˈkwɔːr. i/ in American English.
- Be clear when switching between noun and verb forms.
- Pair with types of material (stone, limestone, minerals) when discussing a quarry.
Common Misconceptions
- Quarry always means a mining site; there is no other sense.
- The verb quarry is common in everyday speech for general searching.
- The prey sense of quarry is the primary meaning in modern usage.
- Quarry and quarrying refer to the same thing in every context.
- A quarry cannot be used to mean 'source of information' in formal writing.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Learn the three core senses: place, source, and verb meaning.
- Use 'quarry for information' to show the searching sense.
- Remember the prey sense exists in older texts but is rare today.
- Practice pronunciation: /ˈkwɒr. i/ (UK) and /ˈkwɔːr. i/ (US).
- Pair with materials: quarry for limestone, quarrying activity, quarry products.
- Distinguish the noun and verb forms by capitalization and context.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'quarry'?
A.A place where stone or other materials are extracted
B.An animal that burrows underground
C.A type of bird known for its hunting skills
D.A sudden flood of water
Step 2: Usage
How is 'quarry' used in a sentence?
A.He went to the quarry to buy fresh vegetables.
B.She found her favorite book at the quarry.
C.The children watched as the workers blasted rocks at the quarry.
D.They enjoyed a picnic near the busy quarry.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'quarry'?
A.Forest
B.Mine
C.Garden
D.Park
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'quarry'?
A.Produce
B.Cultivate
C.Build
D.Conceal
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario involving a quarry?
A.A construction site where materials are gathered for new buildings.
B.An agricultural field growing crops for the market.
C.A playground filled with happy children.
D.A beach where families enjoy the sun.
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