sanctuary - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
sanctuary Word Meanings
- a place of refuge or safety
- a sacred or holy place
- a wildlife reserve where animals are protected
sanctuary Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
sanctuary Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈsæŋk.tʃu.ə.ri/
US
/ˈsæŋk.tʃu.ˌɛr.i/
sanctuary Word Etymology
sanctuary = sanctus (sacred) + -ary (place for); historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Picture a serene holy place where weary travelers find a safe haven.
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
Sanctuary is a noun with three core senses: a place of refuge or safety for people, a sacred or holy place such as a church or shrine, and a wildlife reserve where animals are protected. Etymology traces to Latin sanctus meaning holy, via Old French into English, suggesting a protected, consecrated space. In everyday English, you can talk about seeking sanctuary in a difficult situation, visiting the sanctuary of a temple, or visiting a wildlife sanctuary to observe animals. The term is flexible; it is not used for ordinary shelters, nor for secular buildings unless they carry protected or sacred status. Learn its nuances to choose refuge, haven, or reserve appropriately.
Usage Reminders
- • Sanctuary has three core senses: refuge, sacred place, wildlife reserve.
- • Use seek/shelter when talking about refuge; use visit/enter for sacred spaces.
- • Wildlife sanctuary = protected area for animals; not a zoo.
- • Distinguish sanctuary from sanctify (to make holy) and sanctimonious (hypocritically holy).
- • For cities or politics, specify 'sanctuary city' or 'sanctuary policy' to avoid confusion.
Common Misconceptions
- Sanctuary always means a religious place; it can also be secular.
- All refuges are sanctuaries; treat 'refuge' and 'sanctuary' as interchangeable.
- Sanctuary city automatically protects all undocumented migrants.
- Sanctuary is the same as sanctification or sanctimony.
- A zoo can be called a sanctuary.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- 3-4 common uses shown in context
- Notice collocations: seek sanctuary, sanctuary city
- Differentiate from sanctify and sanctimonious
- For wildlife, prefer 'wildlife sanctuary' or 'nature reserve'
- Practice with 1) religious space 2) refuge 3) protected area
- Mind pronunciation: first syllable stressed
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'sanctuary'?
A.A dark place
B.A dangerous place
C.A safe place
D.A loud place
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'sanctuary' used correctly?
A.He found sanctuary in the forest.
B.The sanctuary was filled with danger.
C.Sanctuary can be noisy sometimes.
D.She avoided the sanctuary for safety.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym for 'sanctuary'?
A.Danger
B.Noise
C.Chaos
D.Haven
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'sanctuary'?
A.Chaos
B.Haven
C.Peace
D.Quiet
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation might someone seek a sanctuary?
A.Walking in a park
B.Being chased by a wild animal
C.Attending a loud concert
D.Reading a book at home
Related Listening
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