reservation - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
reservation Word Meanings
- an arrangement to secure accommodations
- a limit or doubt about something
- a formal request to keep something available
reservation Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
reservation Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɛzəˈveɪʃən/
US
/ˌrɛzərˈveɪʃən/
reservation Word Etymology
re- = again, servare = to keep; from Latin to Old French, meaning 'to keep back'. Picture a person holding a table reservation slip, ensuring they have a seat waiting for them.
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
I move from the couch to the desk, my fingers hovering before I press to hold a room for tomorrow. The screen shifts as I set a date and confirm the details, watching the slot change from open to saved. I feel a pull between need and price, a tiny push-pull in my chest. I adjust the time a notch, then let the receipt sit and keep the plan quiet until it's needed.
Real Context
Reservation is a noun with several related senses. The most common meaning is an arrangement to secure accommodations or services in advance, such as a hotel room, a restaurant table, or a seat on a flight. It can also refer to a doubt or hesitation about something, as in have reservations about a plan. Finally, a reservation can be a formal request to keep something available for you, under your name. The word comes from Latin servare, to keep, via Old French, and it signals the idea of setting aside time, space, or resources. Learners often confuse reservation with booking or with the verb reserve, and they can mix up prepositions like for, at, or with in different contexts.
Usage Reminders
- - Use reservation for prebooking or doubts about a plan.
- - Say make a reservation for a restaurant table or hotel room.
- - Have reservations about something means you have doubts.
- - Compare reservation with booking and with reserve.
- - Watch prepositions: a reservation for, not a reservation with a person.
- - Keep the noun form, not the verb form when you mean the object.
Common Misconceptions
- reservation is the same as booking
- reservation only means hotel or restaurant seating
- have reservations means you will definitely cancel
- reserve and reserve for are interchangeable
- reservation always requires a formal setting
Thinking Differences
Reservation in English often splits the idea of keeping a place aside (reserve) from the act of booking and sometimes from having doubts about a plan, which learners may mix up with related words like booking or reserve.
Learning Tips
- Learn the main senses first: prebooking, doubt, and a formal hold.
- Practice common collocations: make a reservation for, have reservations about.
- Distinguish reserve (verb) and reservation (noun).
- Notice prepositions: for a table, at a hotel, with a provider.
- Use a calendar or app to track reservations.
- Compare with booking to see subtle differences in nuance.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'reservation'?
A.Confirmation
B.Cancellation
C.Waiting
D.Approval
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following scenarios would you make a reservation?
A.Planning a dinner at a restaurant
B.Deciding on a movie to watch
C.Choosing a new book to read
D.Taking a walk in the park
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'reservation'?
A.Unavailability
B.Rejection
C.Booking
D.Neglect
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'reservation'?
A.Reservation
B.Spontaneous
C.Scheduled
D.Arrangement
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life context where you might need to make a reservation?
A.Booking a table at a busy restaurant for a special occasion
B.Skipping school to play video games
C.Forgetting to show up for a doctor's appointment
D.Taking a last-minute trip without planning ahead
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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