reparation - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
reparation Word Meanings
- the act of making amends for a wrong
- compensation for damage or injury
- restitution made for a loss
reparation Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
reparation Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌrɛpəˈreɪʃən/
US
/ˌrɛpəˈreɪʃən/
reparation Word Etymology
reparation = re- (again) + parare (to make ready); Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a skilled craftsman meticulously fixing a broken vase, carefully putting every piece back together to restore it.
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
Reparation refers to the act of making amends for a wrong, as well as compensation for damage or injury, and restitution for a loss. It can involve financial payments, repairs, or restoring someone to their previous situation. In historical contexts, governments offer reparations to victims of atrocities; in everyday use, you might apologize and offer restitution to fix a broken relationship. The word emphasizes restorative action beyond mere apology, often with a formal or legal flavor. Note that reparation differs from repair (fixing a broken object) and from compensation (payment for harm), though the ideas can overlap.
Usage Reminders
- Take responsibility and restore what was lost. It is more formal than 'repair' and is often used in legal or historic contexts. Use 'reparations' for collective harms. It is not the same as simple compensation or repairing an object. In everyday speech, you might say 'make amends' instead of 'make reparations.'
Common Misconceptions
- Reparations are only money
- It's the same as repairing a broken object
- Only governments can give reparations
- Reparations fix every problem
- Reparation is a modern term used only recently
Thinking Differences
English speakers often separate repair (fixing objects) from reparation (restorative justice or formal compensation), which can confuse learners who equate it with simple compensation or with apologizing alone.
Learning Tips
- Distinguish reparation from repair; one fixes objects, the other fixes injustices
- Use make reparations for in formal contexts and reparations for collective harms
- Pay attention to collocations: pay reparations to victims/survivors
- Compare with restitution (return of property) and compensation (money for harm)
- In everyday speech use 'make amends' or 'apologize' when appropriate
- Remember plural reparations when referring to multiple incidents
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'reparation'?
A.A tool
B.A payment
C.A promise
D.A song
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'reparation' used correctly?
A.She sang a reparation to her friend.
B.They used a reparation to fix the car.
C.He promised to give reparation for the damage caused.
D.The bird reparationed its nest.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'reparation'?
A.Punishment
B.Reward
C.Compensation
D.Apology
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life context might you encounter 'reparation'?
A.Customer service offering a refund for a faulty product
B.A teacher giving extra credit to help a student improve
C.A country providing financial compensation for historical wrongs
D.A friend apologizing and making amends for a mistake
Step 5: Mastery
Reflect on when 'reparation' might be necessary in your own life or society.
A.All of the above
B.Repairing relationships with family members
C.Compensating victims of a crime
D.Peace treaties between countries
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App