skyscraper - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
skyscraper Word Meanings
- a very tall building
- a structure that reaches a great height
- a symbol of urban development
skyscraper Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
skyscraper Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈskaɪˌskreɪpə/
US
/ˈskaɪˌskreɪpɚ/
skyscraper Word Etymology
sky + scraper = one that scrapes the sky; from Middle English; relates to the image of something tall reaching toward the clouds.
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
Skyscraper is a noun that refers to a very tall building, typically in a city, designed for office or residential use. The term emphasizes height and the dramatic silhouette it creates against the skyline, and it often signals urban development and modernity. In everyday speech, people might contrast a skyscraper with a low-rise or mid-rise building, focusing on scale rather than function alone. The word carries cultural associations with economic growth, iconic architecture, and tourism, as seen in cities like New York, Dubai, or Shanghai. Although height is central, a skyscraper can also symbolize ambition, planning, and progress, making it a favorite fit for news headlines and travel writing alike.
Usage Reminders
- Pronounce skyscraper as SKY-skreɪ-pər.
- Use with definite/indefinite articles: a skyscraper, the skyscraper.
- Skyscraper emphasizes height and silhouette, not just size.
- Compare with high-rise when speaking about buildings of various heights.
- Practice with city skylines: New York, Dubai, Shanghai.
Common Misconceptions
- A skyscraper is just a very tall building; height alone defines it
- All very tall buildings are skyscrapers
- Skyscraper is interchangeable with high-rise in all contexts
- City landmarks labeled skyscraper are always iconic
- Only modern cities have skyscrapers
Thinking Differences
Think of skyscraper as a culturally loaded image—height and silhouette convey power, ambition, and urban identity. Learners often overgeneralize to all tall buildings or misinterpret it as a generic term for any tower.
Learning Tips
- Practice with a native speaker using skyline descriptions
- Note differences between skyscraper and high-rise
- Read headlines about urban development to see usage
- Learn common Collocations: skyscraper city, skyscraper district
- Build a mini city guide using at least three skyscrapers
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'skyscraper'?
A.Tall building
B.Small house
C.Wide street
D.Deep ocean
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'skyscraper' used correctly?
A.The skyscraper was the tallest building in the city.
B.She lived in a small cottage in the countryside.
C.He drove a fast car around the neighborhood.
D.The cat climbed up the tree.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a synonym for 'skyscraper'?
A.Tower
B.Bungalow
C.Shack
D.Cabin
Step 4: Opposite Words
What would be the opposite of a 'skyscraper'?
A.Hut
B.Palace
C.Cave
D.Dungeon
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you most likely see a 'skyscraper'?
A.Countryside farm
B.Mountain summit
C.City skyline
D.Beachfront
Related Listening
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