repairs - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
repairs Word Meanings
- to fix something that is broken
- to restore to good condition
- to mend or improve an object or system
repairs Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
repairs Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɪˈpeə/
US
/rɪˈpɛr/
repairs Word Etymology
Re- + pair (from Latin 'parare' meaning to make ready) → Old French 'reparare' → English 'repair'. Imagine a broken vase being carefully glued back together with love, restoring its beauty.
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
Hands find the wrench, I set my stance and move in close. I turn the bolt, hearing the squeak fade as the part beds in. I push here, I pull there, adjusting the fit until every edge holds firm. When the mechanism runs smooth again, I feel repair begin as a quiet sense you can only notice by touch.
Real Context
Repair means to fix something that is broken or not functioning, bringing it back to normal condition. It can refer to physical objects, such as a car, appliance, or piece of furniture, as well as systems like a relationship, a reputation, or a process. You might repair a dented bumper, repair damaged wiring, or repair a damaged agreement by renegotiating terms. The verb implies care, effort, and a return to a usable state rather than building something new. In everyday speech, people often distinguish repairing (fixing) from replacing (getting a new one).
Usage Reminders
- Fix something broken; restore to working condition.
- Distinguish repair from replace; repair keeps the original item.
- Repair can be physical or abstract (relationship, system).
- Common collocations: repair a car, repair a leak, repair a relationship, repair work.
- Use correct tense and voice; "have repaired" vs "am repairing" when appropriate.
Common Misconceptions
- Repair means making something new; it always involves creating something new.
- Repair is only for physical objects, not abstract things like relationships.
- If it’s damaged, you must replace it; repair is rarely an option.
- Repair and mend are always interchangeable in every context.
- Repairs must always be done by professionals.
Thinking Differences
Repair in English often frames fixing as returning to a usable state and contrasts it with replacing. Learners may overuse repair for cosmetic fixes or apply it to abstract concepts without nuance. Remember that repair can be a deliberate, ongoing process (repair work) and that the noun form "a repair" is common in reporting repairs.
Learning Tips
- Learn the core senses: fix, restore, and improve.
- Differentiate repair from replace across objects and relationships.
- Practice collocations: repair a car, repair a leak, repair a relationship.
- Use both physical and abstract contexts to expand usage.
- Observe noun vs verb forms: a repair vs to repair.
- Think in maintenance terms; some repairs are ongoing.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'repairs' mean?
A.breaking something intentionally
B.fixing something that is broken
C.ignoring a problem
D.destroying an object
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'repairs' correctly?
A.He repairs his homework before handing it in.
B.She repairs the car to ensure it runs smoothly.
C.They announced repairs to the school's lunch menu.
D.The artist repairs the painting with new colors.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'repairs'?
A.destruction
B.renovations
C.disassembly
D.sabotage
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of the word 'repairs'?
A.builds
B.constructs
C.damages
D.creates
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario of using the word 'repairs'?
A.He was always involved in websites that offered timely repairs for all appliances.
B.After the storm, the community organized a cleanup day.
C.The building was closed for several weeks due to ongoing maintenance work.
D.The technician finished the job and charged for services rendered.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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