sensation - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
sensation Word Meanings
- a physical feeling or perception from something that happens to or comes into contact with the body
- an awareness or impression that something is present or happening
- a widespread reaction or excitement about something.
sensation Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
sensation Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/sɛnˈseɪʃən/
US
/sɛnˈseɪʃən/
sensation Word Etymology
sensation = sens- (feeling) + -ation (process); Latin 'sensatio' → Old French 'sensacion' → English. Imagine a wave of excitement washing over you, capturing a feeling that sends shivers down your spine.
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 place my hand on the glass and press a bit, then move it slowly across the cool surface. The touch changes as heat rises from the room and a pulse of warmth travels under the skin, a tiny sensation waking up. I adjust my grip, hold steady for a beat, and keep listening to what my body is telling me about what’s there. That moment of awareness - how something feels in the body - gives me a simple sense of what's happening around me, a sensation I can name only by noticing it in real time.
Real Context
In English, sensation primarily refers to a physical feeling produced by the body, such as a tingling sensation or a dull ache. It also covers a perception or impression that something is present, often with a slightly more formal tone than just a feeling. Additionally, sensation can describe a widely noticed event or phenomenon, especially in media or pop culture, as in a product becoming a global sensation. Learners should note that sensation often collocates with adjectives like strong or tingling and with verbs like create, evoke, or provoke. Distinctions from feeling and perception arise when describing subjective states; sensation emphasizes physical input or a strong reaction rather than mood.
Usage Reminders
- Not the same as a mood or emotion. Use sensation for bodily feelings like pain, tingling, or warmth. Pair with adjectives such as strong, dull, or tingling. Use with verbs like create, evoke, or provoke a sensation. When describing a trend, a 'sensation' means a large, widespread reaction.
Common Misconceptions
- Sensation = emotion or mood
- Sensation only refers to touch or physical pain
- Sensation cannot describe abstract or social phenomena
- Confuses sensation with perception in psychology
- Overuses sensation where 'feeling' or 'impression' is more natural
Thinking Differences
In English, sensation emphasizes a concrete bodily input or a strong immediate reaction. Learners often default to 'feeling' for both physical cues and moods, which sounds less precise. Remember to reserve sensation for tactile or perceptual experiences and for notable social or media phenomena described as a 'sensation'.
Learning Tips
- Practice distinguishing physical feelings from moods.
- Pair sensation with body parts: a sensation in my arm, a sensation of warmth.
- Use 'media sensation' for trending topics, not everyday feelings.
- Combine with adjectives: strong, dull, tingling to shade meaning.
- Compare with 'feeling' and 'perception' to choose the right word.
- Remember natural collocations: create a sensation, evoke a sensation.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'sensation'?
A.A feeling of smell
B.An event that surprises
C.A physical feeling resulting from something external
D.A loud noise
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'sensation' used correctly?
A.She heard a sensation outside the window.
B.The sensation of happiness filled her heart.
C.The movie created a sensation among the audience.
D.The sensation of history was taught in school.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'sensation'?
A.Perception
B.Ambiguity
C.Apathy
D.Inhibition
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite meaning of 'sensation'?
A.Tingle
B.Stimulation
C.Emotion
D.Boredom
Step 5: Mastery
How would you describe 'sensation' in a real-life context?
A.Feeling of emotions
B.Taste of a delicious meal
C.Reaction to a thrilling movie
D.Physical reaction to touching something hot
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