revelation - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
revelation Word Meanings
- a surprising and previously unknown fact
- the act of revealing something
- an insight or understanding
revelation Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
revelation Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɛvəˈleɪʃən/
US
/rɛvəˈleɪʃən/
revelation Word Etymology
re- = again + velare = to unveil. Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a curtain being drawn back again to reveal a hidden treasure.
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 reach out, pull back the curtain, and the light moves across the room. I adjust the lamp’s angle and the shadows shift. With effort and attention, a revelation begins to surface inside me, like a small door turning open. This isn’t a definition or an explanation, just a feeling that grows real as I experience it.
Real Context
Revelation is a noun with three broad senses in English: a surprising and previously unknown fact; the act of revealing something; and an insight or understanding that feels sudden. It can appear in science, journalism, personal life, or religious contexts, often signaling a turning point in thinking or a new piece of information that changes what you believed. The etymology traces to re- (again) and velare (to veil), evoking the image of drawing back a curtain to expose hidden treasure. Learners should note its formal tone and common collocations like 'a revelation about …' or 'a stunning revelation', and distinguish it from the verb reveal and the adjective revelatory.
Usage Reminders
- Use it for major, surprising information.
- Do not confuse with reveal (verb).
- Note its religious senses may differ from secular uses.
- Common collocations include 'a revelation about …' and 'a major revelation'.
- Prefer formal contexts; use in writing or careful speech.
Common Misconceptions
- It always has a religious sense; many discoveries are not revelations.
- Revelation and reveal are interchangeable as nouns; they are not.
- It means just discovering something, not the act of disclosing it.
- It cannot describe everyday factual findings.
- People misuse it when referring to simply quirky or minor information.
Thinking Differences
In English, revelation often centers on a dramatic uncovering or sudden insight; learners may overemphasize religious sense or treat it like a casual discovery.
Learning Tips
- Differentiate the three senses (fact, act of revealing, insight).
- Use 'a revelation about …' for new information.
- Note religious vs secular usage to avoid tone errors.
- Pair with adjectives like 'major', 'shocking' for emphasis.
- Compare with reveal (verb) and revelatory (adjective).
- Practice with news, science, and personal anecdotes.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'revelation'?
A.Jump
B.Excitement
C.Sleep
D.Discovery
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'revelation' used correctly?
A.He slept peacefully after the revelation of the news.
B.I jumped in excitement at the revelation of the book's ending.
C.The cat meowed loudly after a revelation.
D.She made a great discovery which was a revelation to everyone.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'revelation'?
A.Secret
B.Mundane
C.Obvious
D.Dull
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite meaning of 'revelation'?
A.Silence
B.Joy
C.Revenge
D.Concealment
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you expect to hear the word 'revelation'?
A.Courtroom testimonies
B.Casual conversation about the weather
C.Parent-teacher conference
D.Scientific research presentation
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