scandal - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
scandal Word Meanings
- an action or event that causes public outrage or shock
- a disgraceful or discreditable action
- a situation that is considered immoral or wrong
scandal Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
scandal Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈskændl/
US
/ˈskændl/
scandal Word Etymology
scandal = scan- (to bring to light) + dal (to tear); From Greek 'skandalon' → Latin 'scandalum' → Old French 'escandle' → English. Imagine a crowd gasping in shock as a hidden truth is revealed, causing a wave of outrage.
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 lean toward the room, pull the curtain aside and feel the air tighten. As the rumor moves through faces, the mood shifts. What started as a private misstep changes into a public storm, and I brace, holding my breath. In that moment, the scene lets the truth be judged by others, and embarrassment rises to the surface.
Real Context
Scandal is a noun describing a public outrage caused by an action or event that many people find shocking, immoral, or discreditable. It can refer to a single sensational act or to a broader pattern of behavior that damages trust in individuals or institutions. In everyday English you might hear about a political scandal, a corporate scandal, or a personal scandal that becomes tabloid fodder. The word often collocates with verbs like erupt, rock, unfold, swirl around, or be exposed. People may describe something as scandalous, an adjective meaning extremely improper or morally wrong. Scandal carries a strong moral weight and is more formal than casual gossip.
Usage Reminders
- Remember that scandal is countable: a scandal, several scandals. Use scandal with erupts, breaks, or rocks; scandalous describes something morally wrong. Not every controversy is a scandal. Scandal often targets public figures or institutions. In formal writing, prefer precise terms like misconduct or malpractice when appropriate.
Common Misconceptions
- Scandal is the same as gossip or controversy.
- All scandals involve crime.
- A scandal must be famous or large-scale to exist.
- Scandal and scandalous are interchangeable as adjectives.
- You can only say 'a scandal' when there is a public investigation.
Thinking Differences
English tends to separate private rumors from public scandals; learners should note that scandal refers to serious public wrongs and is distinct from mere controversy.
Learning Tips
- Study common collocations: scandal erupts, scandal breaks, under a scandal; scandalous describes something morally wrong; learn related nouns like misconduct, malpractice.
- Practice pronouncing with stress on the first syllable: SCAN-dal.
- Remember it's countable: a scandal, two scandals.
- Learn how to describe scope: political scandal, corporate scandal.
- Use precise verbs: 'the scandal erupted' rather than 'the scandal happened'.
- Distinguish 'scandal' (public outrage) from 'scandals' (plural) and from 'scandalous' (strong judgment).
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'scandal'?
A.Gossip
B.Reliable
C.Sunshine
D.Happiness
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences use the word 'scandal' correctly?
A.The scandal of the cake was delicious.
B.She caused a scandal by being honest.
C.He enjoys scandal in the rainy weather.
D.They scandal to go swimming.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'scandal'?
A.Joy
B.Peace
C.Controversy
D.Hope
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'scandal'?
A.Secret
B.Praise
C.Happiness
D.Justice
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where the word 'scandal' would be appropriate?
A.Talking about a sunny day at the beach
B.Discussing a political scandal in the news
C.Describing a peaceful walk in the park
D.Planning a surprise party for a friend
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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