repel - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
repel Word Meanings
- to drive away or keep something from approaching
- to cause disgust
- to reject or refuse something
- to push back against an attack
repel Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
repel Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɪˈpɛl/
US
/rɪˈpɛl/
repel Word Etymology
re- (again) + pel (to drive) → Latin origin (repellere) → Old French (repel) → English. Imagine pushing away a pesky insect repeatedly, emphasizing the action of driving it back.
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
Repel means to drive something away or keep it from approaching, whether by physical force, by creating a sense of disgust, or by firmly opposing an idea or attack. It can describe a shield or spray that pushes an invader back, or a feeling that makes you recoil from a proposal. In everyday usage you might repel a suggestion by challenging it, or repel an attacker by taking a defensive stance. The word comes from Latin repellere, with re- meaning back or again and pellere meaning to drive; it reached English via Old French repeler, reinforcing the sense of pushing things back again and again.
Usage Reminders
- Repel requires a direct object; you repel something or someone. Use with physical or metaphorical push. You can be repelled by something, but you rarely say something repels you. Distinguish repel from resist or reject in nuance. For insects, use repellents; for ideas, think in terms of pushing away uncertainty. Collocations: repel a projectile, repel pests, repelled by a sight, repelling attack.
Common Misconceptions
- Repel is only about disgust; it also means actively driving something away.
- Being repelled by something is the same as disliking it; it often involves an active reaction.
- Repel cannot describe an idea; use 'reject' or 'deter' for ideas.
- You can be repelled by something, but you rarely say something repels you in everyday speech.
- Mistaking 'repel' for 'repulse' or 'resist' in every context.
Thinking Differences
French, German, and other languages often map repel to concrete physical or moral barriers, while English uses a broader range of contexts. Learners tend to over-literalize pushing away and may misplace agents or miss the passive be repelled by construction.
Learning Tips
- Create a mental image of pushing something away.
- Distinguish between repel (active push) and be repelled by (feeling).
- Pair with concrete agents: repel a projectile, repel pests.
- Note the common collocations and passive forms.
- Practice both physical and emotional contexts.
- Compare with similar verbs like resist, reject, and deter.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'repel'?
A.Attract
B.Gather
C.Push away
D.Mix
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'repel' used correctly?
A.She tried to attract the bees with honey.
B.He gathered all his friends for a party.
C.The strong odor of garlic can repel mosquitoes.
D.Let's mix oil and water together.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'repel'?
A.Attract
B.Draw in
C.Invite
D.Scare away
Step 4: Opposite Words
In which situation would you use the word 'repel'?
A.Spraying insect repellent
B.Walking a dog
C.Planting flowers
D.Baking a cake
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example sentence using the word 'repel'?
A.I wanted to attract the birds with birdseed.
B.The strong smell of the repellent can repel insects effectively.
C.Let's mix all the colors together for the painting.
D.She tried to invite all her classmates to the party.
Related Listening
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