sow - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
sow Word Meanings
- to plant seeds in the ground
- to introduce something that will grow
- an adult female pig
sow Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
sow Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/saʊ/
US
/saʊ/
sow Word Etymology
sow = sow (root) | Old English 'sawan' → Middle English 'sowen' → Modern English. Imagine a farmer casting seeds into the earth, envisioning a strong crop sprouting up.
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
Sow is a versatile word with two main senses. As a verb, it means to plant seeds in the ground, often with care or in rows, and it can also mean to introduce ideas, actions, or resources in a way that will grow or develop later. In this second sense, you might hear phrases like sowing seeds of doubt or sowing hope, where the result is not immediate but expected over time. As a noun, sow refers to an adult female pig. Because English treats seed-planting and animal gender differently, remember to pronounce and spell the noun form distinctly from the verb. Learners often confuse the two meanings or mix up the noun with other farm animals.
Usage Reminders
- Plant seeds in soil when talking about crops
- Use sow metaphorically with doubt or hope for future impact
- Sow is also a noun meaning a female pig, plural sows
- Pronunciation differs between noun and verb forms but spelling is the same
- Avoid confusing sow with sew; they are different words with related but distinct meanings
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing sow with sew as similar sounds but different meanings
- Thinking sow only refers to farming crops, not animals
- Using sow in place of plant or plant seeds without specifying seeds
- Forgetting sow as a verb and sow as a noun share the same spelling but different senses
- Mispronouncing the noun (sow) as the verb (sow) in speech
Thinking Differences
English often relies on a single spelling for two related but distinct senses (verb and noun). Learners must notice context and pronunciation cues to choose the right sense, especially in metaphors like sowing doubt.
Learning Tips
- Make a mini glossary of senses (planting vs metaphor vs pig)
- Practice with collocations like sow seeds, sow doubt, sow hope
- Listen for context clues to determine sense
- Use a dictionary that marks pronunciation for each sense
- Read farming or gardening texts to see literal usage
- Create your own sentences focusing on both senses
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'sow'?
A.Build houses
B.Harvest crops
C.Cook food
D.Plant seeds
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'sow' used correctly?
A.He decided to sow money into the bank.
B.The farmer will sow the dish for dinner.
C.She will sow the seeds in the garden tomorrow.
D.They sow the crops in the storage.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'sow'?
A.Pick
B.Reap
C.Harvest
D.Gather
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life context would you most likely encounter the word 'sow'?
A.Restaurant menu
B.Construction site
C.Botany class
D.Library book
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a situation where someone would need to sow something?
A.Cooking a meal
B.Starting a garden
C.Building a house
D.Reading a book
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