retard - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
retard Word Meanings
- to delay or slow down
- to hinder the progress of
- to make something less effective or strong
retard Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
retard Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɪˈtɑːd/
US
/rɪˈtɑrd/
retard Word Etymology
Re- = again + tard = late. Latin -> Old French -> English. Imagine someone trying to move forward in a race but being held back, making them late.
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
Retard is a verb meaning to delay, slow down, or hinder progress. It is commonly used in both everyday and formal contexts, such as 'to retard progress' or 'to retard a process.' It can also describe making something less effective or slower, for example in phrases like 'retard the growth of a plant' or 'retard the spread of a disease' in scientific writing. The word carries a risk of offense when used to describe a person, so in most cases you should choose neutral alternatives like delay or slow down and avoid personalization.
Usage Reminders
- Be precise with the meaning: delay, slow down, or hinder. Avoid using it for people. Use neutral alternatives like delay or slow down in sensitive contexts. Not common in polite conversation about people. Consider context: technical vs. everyday use. Use synonyms in less formal language when possible.
Common Misconceptions
- It always means insulting someone
- It only appears in technical writing
- It is never used for things that slow things down
- It is interchangeable with delay in all contexts
- It describes moral failure rather than timing
Thinking Differences
English tends to prefer a direct, literal sense for retard as delay or slow down, but many learners fear offense when applied to people; keep caution and choose neutral synonyms in social contexts.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: retard progress, retard growth, retard the spread.
- Avoid person-focused usage; prefer delay, slow down in social contexts.
- Practice with neutral contexts in science or engineering.
- Note historical and sensitive usage to avoid offense.
- Combine with verbs of causation for clearer meaning (will/should/has).
- Use translations to compare how each language encodes delay ideas.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'retard'?
A.To reverse
B.To speed up
C.To stop
D.To slow down
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'retard' correctly?
A.He stopped learning new skills.
B.She accelerated the process of the experiment.
C.She tried to retard the growth of the plant.
D.The car moved backwards quickly.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'retard'?
A.Hasten
B.Reverse
C.Advance
D.Delay
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'retard'?
A.Pause
B.Accelerate
C.Reverse
D.Cancel
Step 5: Mastery
In what context would you use the word 'retard'?
A.Discussing a fast racing car
B.Talking about a slow computer program
C.Describing a new invention
D.Explaining a scientific theory
Related Listening
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