score - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
score Word Meanings
- the number of points achieved in a game or test
- to record or indicate a value
- a musical composition
score Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
score Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/skɔː/
US
/skɔr/
score Word Etymology
score = score (root). Origin: Latin 'scoria' → Old French 'escore' → English. Imagine marking a score like tally marks on a chalkboard, each stroke representing a point gained in a competition.
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 grip the pencil and move it across the page. I push a key, watch the score on the screen shift. I adjust my grip, hold my breath a moment, and set the moment when the tally feels right. Later, hearing a melody, I keep the rhythm in my fingers as the score finally settles.
Real Context
Score has several connected senses in English. It most commonly means the points you earn in a game or on a test, and you can refer to your final score or to the score of a match. As a verb, score means to gain points or to record a value, as in score a goal or score 95 on a quiz. Score can also refer to a musical score, the written music for an orchestra or film. People use phrases like “high score,” “to score points,” and “keep score.” The pronunciation is typically /skɔːr/, and many collocations hinge on whether score is used as a noun or a verb.
Usage Reminders
- - Score can refer to points in a game or test.
- - As a verb, score means to gain points or to record a value.
- - A musical score is written music for an orchestra or film.
- - Common collocations: high score, score a goal, keep score, score points.
- - Pronounce score as /skɔːr/ and watch for noun/verb differences.
Common Misconceptions
- Score only means points in sports; it does not apply to other contexts like music or measurements.
- The musical meaning of score is the same as a single note or beat, which is incorrect.
- Score as a verb always means to win or succeed; it can also mean simply to record a value in some contexts.
- Confusing 'score' with 'score sheet' as a synonym for 'tally' in every situation.
- Mispronouncing score as skoh-re or skore-related variants in some dialects.
Thinking Differences
Think in context: English often uses score as a concrete outcome (points) or an action (to score). Learners must decide if the meaning is numeric (points), action (to gain points), or a music term (score).
Learning Tips
- 1) Learn the three core meanings (points, verb to score, musical score).
- 2) Practice common collocations: high score, keep score, score a goal.
- 3) Distinguish noun vs verb by sentence context.
- 4) Listen for pronunciation cues in different dialects.
- 5) Use real contexts (games, tests, music) to reinforce meaning.
- 6) Create your own sentences to solidify usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'score'?
A.To keep track of a sports game
B.To obtain a high grade on a test
C.A musical instrument
D.To measure the weight of an object
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'score' correctly?
A.The orchestra played music from the score.
B.The teacher asked us to score the textbook for our next exam.
C.She used a hammer to score a piece of wood.
D.I used a ladder to score a goal in basketball.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'score'?
A.Track
B.Penalty
C.Play
D.Win
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of the word 'score'?
A.Goal
B.Record
C.Lose
D.Measure
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where 'score' would be used?
A.The chef had to score the meat before cooking it.
B.She got a high score on her math test.
C.He couldn't score tickets to the concert.
D.The team managed to score a touchdown in the final seconds.
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App