renewable - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
renewable Word Meanings
- able to be renewed or replaced
- related to resources that can be regenerated
- refers to energy sources like solar and wind
renewable Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
renewable Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɪˈnjuːəbl/
US
/rɪˈnuːəbl/
renewable Word Etymology
Renewable: re- (again) + new (to make new) + able (capable of). Originated from Latin 'renovare' → Old French → English. Imagine a plant sprouting anew from the ground after a storm, symbolizing regeneration.
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
Renewable describes resources or energy sources that can be replenished naturally or replaced over time, rather than being exhausted like fossil fuels. The term is commonly used for energy, where solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and biomass sources provide power with minimal long term depletion and typically lower emissions. In everyday language, renewable also means processes or materials that can be renewed, such as forests or water sources that are protected or restored. People contrast renewable with nonrenewable resources to discuss sustainability, energy security, and climate goals. When teaching this word, highlight how it colors policy, business, and technology conversations, as well as everyday decisions about consumption and waste.
Usage Reminders
- Place before a noun: renewable energy, renewable resources.
- Common collocations include renewable energy, renewable resources, renewable technologies.
- Represents the ability to be renewed, not a verb.
- Pair with sustainability, climate action, or policy contexts.
- Be mindful of pronunciation and the common misspelling renewible.
Common Misconceptions
- Renewable sources are infinite and never need maintenance.
- All renewable energy is 100% clean and reliable.
- Renewable means you can exhaust it if you overuse it.
- Any green action is automatically renewable.
- Renewables can instantly replace all fossil fuels.
Thinking Differences
English learners often default to 'renew' meaning an action you do to something, so they may misread renewable as a verb form. The word here describes the characteristic of resources, especially energy, that can naturally replenish; collocations like 'renewable energy' are essential.
Learning Tips
- memorize common collocations: renewable energy, renewable resources, renewable technologies
- listen for pronunciation stress on -able
- contrast renewable with nonrenewable to discuss sustainability
- note that renewable describes nouns, not actions
- practice reading policy or news headlines to see real-world usage
- create flashcards with key examples and definitions
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'renewable'?
A.Broken beyond repair
B.Inflexible
C.Able to be reused
D.Limited in quantity
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'renewable' correctly?
A.The old chair was not renewable anymore.
B.The company refused to renew their contract.
C.She decided to use renewable energy sources for her home.
D.The roadblock was renewable by the workers.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'renewable'?
A.Replenishable
B.Expendable
C.Fixed
D.Permanent
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'renewable'?
A.Nonrenewable
B.Disposable
C.Depletable
D.Sustainable
Step 5: Mastery
How is the concept of 'renewable' energy important in reducing carbon emissions?
A.It helps decrease carbon emissions
B.It has no effect on carbon emissions
C.It increases carbon emissions
D.It's unrelated to carbon emissions
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App