regiment - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
regiment Word Meanings
- a military unit consisting of several battalions
- to organize or discipline
- a systematic and orderly arrangement or structure
regiment Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
regiment Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈrɛdʒɪmənt/
US
/ˈrɛdʒɪmənt/
regiment Word Etymology
Regiment comes from 'regere' meaning 'to rule' + 'ment' denoting a means or process. Originating from Latin, then passing through Old French before entering English, it evokes an image of soldiers lined up, each ruled by discipline. Much like herding sheep, creating order within chaos.
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
Regiment is a word with two broad uses in English. As a noun, it most often refers to a military unit made up of several battalions, typically commanded by a colonel and part of a larger army. This meaning carries connotations of discipline, routine, and uniformity, as soldiers move and train in close formation. As a verb, to regiment means to organize people or tasks in a strict, orderly way, often by imposing schedules, rules, or quotas, sometimes regardless of personal preference. A third, metaphorical sense describes a systematic, orderly arrangement or structure, such as a regimen of daily routines or a well-ordered procedure.
Usage Reminders
- Use regiment for a formal military unit; the verb form is less common in everyday speech. Do not confuse with regimen, which refers to a fixed routine rather than a military unit. The metaphorical sense often appears in health or productivity talk. Remember the order implied by discipline can be positive (efficiency) or negative (rigidity). The noun and verb forms share a root but different usage patterns.
Common Misconceptions
- Regiment always means a military unit, not a plan or routine
- To regiment and regimen are the same thing
- The verb is common in casual conversation
- A regiment cannot refer to anything nonmilitary
- Discipline always has a negative connotation
Thinking Differences
In English, regiment is unusually common as both a military unit and a verb meaning to impose order; many learners confuse it with regimen, which refers to routines, not units, and may be mistaken as a verb.
Learning Tips
- Link the term to both military and organizational senses.
- Practice verb usage with strict schedules or policies.
- Differentiate from regimen by focusing on unit-related contexts.
- Use metaphorical sense in productivity discussions with caution.
- Watch collocations like regimented discipline and a regiment of soldiers.
- Explore historical texts for authentic usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'regiment'?
A.A type of clothing
B.A type of fruit
C.A musical instrument
D.A group of soldiers
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'regiment' correctly?
A.She ate a tasty regiment for breakfast.
B.The dog chased after a regiment in the park.
C.He wore a regiment to the party.
D.The marching band played a regiment at the parade.
Step 3: Similar Words
Choose the synonym for 'regiment':
A.Mob
B.Disorder
C.Chaos
D.Cohort
Step 4: Opposite Words
What would be the opposite of 'regiment'?
A.Chaotic
B.Structured
C.Disciplined
D.Organized
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context might you hear the word 'regiment'?
A.At a military training camp
B.In a bakery shop
C.During a music concert
D.At a sports stadium
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