shun - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
shun Word Meanings
- to deliberately avoid or reject someone or something
- to keep away from
- to turn aside or prevent from happening
shun Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
shun Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ʃʌn/
US
/ʃʌn/
shun Word Etymology
Root: shun = to avoid. Historical origin: Old English 'scunian' meaning 'to avoid'. Memory image: Picture someone actively dodging a flying object, illustrating the act of avoidance.
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
Shun is a strong, deliberate verb meaning to avoid or reject someone or something on purpose. It goes beyond casual avoidance and often signals social disapproval or moral judgment. You might shun a coworker who betrayed trust, shun a risky trend, or shun a topic that makes you uncomfortable. In literature and news, shunning can describe collective behavior or ostracism within a group. The word carries a sharper tone than avoid or ignore, and it is less common in everyday speech unless the speaker wants to imply a principled stance or moral consequence. Common collocations include shun someone, shun a person, shun risks, and shun attention.
Usage Reminders
- - Use shun to describe deliberate social avoidance with a moral undertone.
- - It is stronger than simply avoiding or ignoring and is not common in casual speech.
- - Commonly followed by a person, topic, or action: shun someone, shun a topic, shun risks.
- - Can describe social ostracism or self-imposed withdrawal by an individual.
- - Best in formal, literary, or journalistic contexts to emphasize intentional distancing.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing shun with simply avoiding or ignoring; shun carries a moral or social judgment.
- Shun is not typically used for casual, everyday decisions.
- It often targets people or ideas, not inanimate objects.
- Shun can describe a group’s collective behavior, not just one person.
- Overusing shun can sound literary or harsh in informal settings.
Thinking Differences
Shun is a moralizing, socially loaded term in English; learners should note its stronger tone and potential literary feel, which can clash with casual everyday talk.
Learning Tips
- Learn the core meaning: deliberate avoidance or rejection.
- Note the stronger, sometimes literary tone compared to avoid/ignore.
- Practice with people and topics, not inanimate objects.
- Watch for collocations: shun someone, shun a topic, shun risks.
- Identify contexts: literature, journalism, formal discourse.
- Compare with synonyms (avoid, abstain) to choose the right nuance.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'shun'?
A.Rely
B.Ignore
C.Embrace
D.Reveal
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'shun' correctly?
A.He embraced the opportunity to shun his fears.
B.She revealed her plans to shun the new student.
C.They rely on others to shun their problems.
D.The group decided to shun the dishonest member.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'shun'?
A.Approach
B.Welcome
C.Avoid
D.Engage
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'shun'?
A.Despise
B.Reject
C.Sidestep
D.Embrace
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would someone 'shun' another person?
A.During a class presentation to engage with classmates
B.In a job interview to showcase skills
C.At a party to avoid a former friend
D.At a family gathering to reveal personal stories
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