slim - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
slim Word Meanings
- thin in build or form
- not bulky or heavy
- to reduce in size or weight
slim Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
slim Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/slɪm/
US
/slɪm/
slim Word Etymology
From Middle English 'slim', possibly a blend of 'sly' and 'slim', suggesting a smooth, slender form. Imagine a sleek figure gliding effortlessly through space, showcasing grace and lightness.
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
Slim as adjective describes someone or something with a slender, narrowly built form, and it also means not bulky or heavy. It is a positive, everyday word you can use for people who are fit or fashionably lean, and for products or designs that are sleek and compact, such as a slim laptop or a slim wallet. As a verb, to slim means to become thinner or to reduce size or weight, often through dieting, exercise, or careful trimming. In many contexts, slim carries a professional, stylish tone, different from thin, which can sound harsher, and from slender, which can feel more formal. Context matters for tone, audience, and whether you aim for practical description or aesthetic praise.
Usage Reminders
- 1. Use slim for a positive, stylish tone. 2. Reserve 'thin' for a less healthy or more fragile sense. 3. As a verb, say slim down rather than merely reduce. 4. Common collocations: slim figure, slim profile, slim design. 5. For people, avoid implying weakness. 6. In marketing, 'slim' implies sophistication and efficiency.
Common Misconceptions
- Slim means being underweight or unhealthy.
- Slim always describes people, not objects.
- Slim is the same as thin in every context.
- Using slim with negative contexts sounds natural.
- Slim cannot describe a design or product.
Thinking Differences
In English, slim often carries a positive, modern tone about body or design. Learners should avoid using it where thin suggests fragility or malnourishment; use slender for formality and reserve slim for sleek marketing language.
Learning Tips
- 1. Compare slim with thin and slender to feel tone differences.
- 2. Use slim for products to convey a sleek, modern vibe.
- 3. For people, pair with adjectives like fit or healthy.
- 4. Remember slim down is a phrasal verb, not a simple reduction.
- 5. Check collocations: slim figure, slim profile, slim design.
- 6. Practice marketing copy to sound confident and stylish.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'slim' used correctly?
A.The cat was slimy.
B.I slimmed down the street.
C.He is a slim distance away.
D.She has a slim figure.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'slim'?
A.Skinny
B.Fat
C.Short
D.Big
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'slim'?
A.Wide
B.Healthy
C.Heavy
D.Small
Step 5: Mastery
How would you describe a 'slim' opportunity in a real-life scenario?
A.Rare and valuable
B.Abundant and accessible
C.Temporary and unstable
D.Obvious and certain
Related Listening
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