social - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
social Word Meanings
- related to society or its organization
- involving companionship or communication
- seeking the company of others
social Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
social Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈsəʊ.ʃəl/
US
/ˈsoʊ.ʃəl/
social Word Etymology
social = socius (Latin for 'companion') + -al (suffix indicating 'related to') ➔ Originated from Latin, via Old French into English. Imagine a gathering of friends sharing stories under the stars—'social' evokes a sense of community.
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 shift toward a circle of friends and pull a chair a little closer. I listen, adjust my posture, and let the tempo of the talk guide my steps. If the topic changes, I change my stance a bit, keep my attention, and stay warm. In that moment, social feels like the way we move together, a small act of belonging.
Real Context
Social is a versatile English adjective with two broad senses. In one sense it relates to society, its institutions, structures, or issues, as in social policy, social class, or social change. In the other sense it describes activities that involve companionship, interaction, or communication, such as social events, a social club, or social life. Learners often confuse social with sociable when describing people; sociable is used for someone who enjoys other people, while social can describe contexts and relationships. Remember that not every use of social describes a person; it can refer to systems, groups, or activities as well.
Usage Reminders
- Be aware that social has two main senses: society-related and interaction-related. Do not assume social always describes a person; use sociable for people who enjoy others. Remember common collocations: social media, social life, social event, social policy. Distinguish social from societal in contexts about systems and structures. Use social when discussing groups, organizations, or issues, not just individuals. Finally, check if the meaning is about a context or a person before choosing a synonym.
Common Misconceptions
- social = friendly; social is not only about people, it also describes contexts and systems
- social is always about sociability; it can refer to societal issues or groups
- social = sociable when describing a person
- social is a noun modifier only; you cannot say 'a social' to mean a person
- social and societal are interchangeable in all contexts
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker that social has two main senses: relating to society and relating to social interactions; emphasize the common mix-up with sociable and with social media contexts.
Learning Tips
- 1) Learn two senses first: societal and interpersonal
- 2) Distinguish social from sociable when describing people
- 3) Use common collocations: social media, social life, social event
- 4) Practice contexts: policies vs gatherings
- 5) Watch for noun phrases: social policy, social class
- 6) Read/watch for formal vs informal usage
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'social' mean?
A.Related to sunlight
B.Related to society
C.Related to technology
D.Related to animals
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'social' correctly?
A.She always prefers socializing alone.
B.She enjoys socializing with her friends.
C.She avoids social situations.
D.She is afraid of social media.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'social'?
A.Private
B.Confidential
C.Friendly
D.Introverted
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'social'?
A.Interactive
B.Outgoing
C.Isolated
D.Engaging
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context for the word 'social'?
A.Playing a sport
B.Cooking a meal
C.Attending a social gathering
D.Taking a nap
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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