shave - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
shave Word Meanings
- to cut hair from the skin with a razor
- to remove hair from someone or something
- to make something thinner or smaller
shave Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
shave Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ʃeɪv/
US
/ʃeɪv/
shave Word Etymology
shave = shave (root), from Old English 'sceafan' → Middle English 'shaven' → Modern English 'shave'. Imagine a person carefully gliding a sharp razor over their skin, creating smoothness as they go, reflecting the act of removing hair.
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
Shave is a verb meaning to cut hair from the skin with a razor; to remove hair from someone or something; or to make something thinner or smaller by removing a small amount. In everyday use, people shave facial hair, legs, or underarms, usually with a razor and shaving gel or soap. The phrase shave off describes reducing a number or amount by trimming it slightly, for example shaving a few seconds from a race time or shaving costs. Shave can be used reflexively with body parts (shave oneself) or transitively (shave someone’s beard). The pronunciation is /ʃeɪv/, and learners should note that some idioms vary by region (close shave).
Usage Reminders
- Shave refers to removing hair with a razor.
- Shave off describes reducing a number or time.
- Shave can be reflexive (shave yourself) or transitive (shave someone’s beard).
- Pronounce /ʃeɪv/ clearly in all contexts.
- Idioms vary by region (close shave, shave ahead).
Common Misconceptions
- Shave always means removing all hair (not only a little).
- Shave refers only to facial hair on men.
- Shave and shave off are the same meaning.
- Shaving makes hair disappear permanently.
- Shaving someone else’s hair is rude or never done.
Thinking Differences
In English, shaving is common and literal for hair removal, but learners must also grasp idioms like 'shave off' for time or cost and 'close shave' for a risky moment; mistakes often mix up these extensions or overgeneralize to all hair removal.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: shave your beard, shave your legs.
- Practice shaving off time in sports contexts.
- Distinguish shave from trim; not every cut is a shave.
- Listen for idioms like close shave and shave off.
- Use a mirror when practicing pronunciation of /ʃeɪv/.
- Record yourself to compare American vs British phrasing.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'shave'?
A.To brush the teeth
B.To wash the face with soap
C.To apply makeup on the skin
D.To cut off hair or beard with a razor or blade
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'shave' used correctly?
A.He spent hours choosing a tie to wear for the shave.
B.After waking up, he likes to shave before breakfast.
C.She decided to shave her hair using a comb.
D.The kitten playfully tried to shave the ball of yarn.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'shave'?
A.Grow
B.Clip
C.Trim
D.Comb
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite meaning of 'shave'?
A.Shine
B.Grow
C.Cleanse
D.Groom
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would you commonly need to shave?
A.Playing soccer
B.Taking a bath
C.Attending a job interview
D.Reading a book
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