remote - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
remote Word Meanings
- distant in space or time
- operated from a distance
- a device to control something from afar
remote Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
remote Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɪˈməʊt/
US
/rɪˈmoʊt/
remote Word Etymology
re- = again + mote = move (from Latin 'movere'). Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Visualize a remote control, allowing you to 'move again' through channels without getting up.
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
First I reach for the remote, my fingers finding its cool shape. I push a button and shift my wrist to aim the glow toward the TV. I adjust my chair a touch so the screen stays in view as the scene changes. The sense of control grows as I keep the moment close, as if distance itself could be managed with a gentle turn of the hand.
Real Context
Remote describes something far away in space or time, or something operated from a distance. It often refers to places that are physically distant, such as a remote island, or to processes that occur without close proximity, like remote work or remote sensing. As a noun, remote commonly appears in compounds like remote control or remote access, a device or capability that lets you act from afar. Students should note that remote is an adjective and usually precedes the noun (a remote location) or follows a linking verb (The location is remote). The adverb form is remotely. Learners often confuse remote with far or distant, and may overuse the word in everyday contexts.
Usage Reminders
- 1) remote = distant in space or time; 2) remote control = device to operate from afar; 3) remotely = adverb form; 4) not a verb; 5) pair with remote location or remote work; 6) distinguish from far/distant in nuance
Common Misconceptions
- Remote is not a verb; do not say 'to remote' something.
- Mistaking remote for just 'far away' in everyday speech.
- Using remote as a noun outside fixed phrases (avoid 'a remote' as a place).
- Confusing remotely with remotely operated vs remote operating as kept as noun.
- Forgetting the adverb remotely when describing how something is done.
Thinking Differences
In English, remote commonly marks spatial distance or distance in time, and also tech contexts like remote control. Learners often treat it as a generic synonym for far, which hides its nuance in tech phrases and fixed collocations like remote work or remote sensing.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: remote control, remote work, remotely operated, remote sensing, remote location, remotely.
- Distinguish remote from far and distant; note the nuance of being physically far vs operated from afar.
- Pronounce the second syllable with stress: re-MOTE.
- Use remote with places and technologies; practice both adjectives and nouns.
- Remember remotely is the adverb; do not use remote as an adverb.
- Practice with real tech texts (user manuals, IT notes) to see natural usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'remote'?
A.Bright
B.Distant
C.Sunny
D.Close
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'remote' used correctly?
A.She is a remote person.
B.The television remote is on the table.
C.I can see my house from a remote location.
D.The water is so remote.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'remote'?
A.Crowded
B.Vibrant
C.Intimate
D.Isolated
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'remote'?
A.Far
B.Small
C.Busy
D.Close
Step 5: Mastery
In what context would you use the word 'remote'?
A.Referring to a bustling city street
B.Talking about a small garden
C.Describing a faraway mountain peak
D.Discussing a colorful painting
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