redound - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
redound Word Meanings
- to have a consequence, especially a good one
- to flow back or rebound
- to contribute to a result or effect
redound Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
redound Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɪˈdaʊnd/
US
/rɪˈdaʊnd/
redound Word Etymology
The root 'dound' meaning 'to flow' combined with 're-', a prefix meaning 'back' indicates something flowing back, originally from Latin 'redundare' meaning 'to overflow'. Imagine a river that flows back on itself, suggesting the idea of returning benefits or consequences.
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
Redound is a formal verb meaning to have a consequence, especially a good one; to flow back or rebound; to contribute to a result or effect. It is most often found in literary or academic contexts rather than everyday speech. Common collocations include 'to redound to someone's credit' and 'to redound to the benefit of an organization.' The sense carries an image of effects returning or reflecting back on someone or something, like a river that feeds back into its source. Its Latin origin from redundare (to overflow) helps explain the sense of things returning to influence outcomes.
Usage Reminders
- Use in formal writing only; do not confuse with 'rebound' or 'redundant'.
- Often pairs with 'to the benefit of' or 'to one's credit'.
- Subject-verb agreement: one thing redounds, many things redound.
- Can refer to consequences, returns, or influences; not a simple cause-and-effect verb.
- Prefer culturally or historically appropriate contexts; avoid slang translations.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing redound with rebound or redundant.
- Thinking it always refers to negative consequences.
- Assuming it is a common everyday verb.
- Believing it is a phrasal verb needing a preposition.
- Misinterpreting as a synonym for 'return' in simple cause-effect terms.
Thinking Differences
In English, redound reads as a lofty, historical or literary verb; learners should recognize its formal tone and its idea of benefits flowing back to influence outcomes, not a simple cause-and-effect verb. Common mistakes include treating it as everyday jargon or translating it too literally into modern equivalents like 'rebound' or 'return.'
Learning Tips
- Note its formal register and reserve for written contexts.
- Pair with 'to the benefit of' for natural collocations.
- Remember plural subjects take 'redound' (they redound), singular takes 'redounds'.
- Use as a synonym for consequences that positively influence outcomes.
- Practice translating to languages with strong equivalents like 'repercutir' or 'conllevar' in appropriate contexts.
- Keep it away from everyday verbs; reserve for essays, reports, and classic prose.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'redound'?
A.To result in or bring about a certain outcome
B.To fail or fall short
C.To function improperly
D.To merely exist without purpose
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'redound' correctly?
A.The rain redounded the plants and made them wilt.
B.Her hard work will redound to her success.
C.His efforts redounded the charity's budget.
D.The meeting redounded on their schedule.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'redound'?
A.Contribute
B.Retreat
C.Diminish
D.Hasten
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'redound'?
A.Recede
B.Enhance
C.Support
D.Assist
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone's actions might redound positively?
A.He was given a promotion after not participating in the project.
B.The teacher praised her student for the work that led to improved test scores.
C.The athlete's injury caused a decrease in team morale.
D.The community garden failed to attract any volunteers.
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