squat - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
squat Word Meanings
- to crouch down
- to occupy a place without permission
- a short and stocky person
squat Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
squat Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/skwɒt/
US
/skwɑt/
squat Word Etymology
squat = squat (no prefix/suffix) → Old French 'esquatir' → English. Picture a person crouching low to hide, resembling a compact and defensive stance like a squat position in exercise.
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
Squat is a versatile English word with verb, noun, and occasional adjective uses. As a verb it can mean to crouch down, to lower the body by bending the knees, often to hide or rest. It can also mean to occupy a place without permission, especially a building or land, by settling in and making it home without legal rights. As a noun it can refer to the act of crouching, to a squat position, or informally to a short, stocky person. In fitness, a squat is a common lower-body exercise where you bend the knees and hips and then rise again. The word carries connotations of concealment, rebellion, or physical strength, depending on context.
Usage Reminders
- - Use squat to mean crouching or bending the knees, often when hiding or resting.
- - Use squat to describe illegally occupying a place, especially a building or land.
- - As a noun, squat can refer to the act, the position, or a short, stocky person.
- - In fitness, squat denotes a specific lower-body exercise.
- - Distinguish squat from close synonyms like crouch or duck depending on nuance.
Common Misconceptions
- Squat is only a noun referring to a person.
- It always means illegal occupation.
- It only describes the physical posture, not a wider sense.
- Adjective use is common and frequent in everyday speech.
- Confusing squat with scout or squatty as a generic descriptor.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: English often treats squat as a multi-sense word with distinct verbs, nouns, and contextual cues. Learners may overgeneralize the noun sense to people and ignore the legal/illegal occupancy sense.
Learning Tips
- Make a map of senses: verb, noun, adjective usage.
- Pair with close verbs: crouch, bend, duck, kneel.
- Practice illegal-occupancy contexts to avoid misusage.
- Watch collocations with fitness terms (squat rack, squat jump).
- Review pronunciation: sharp initial 'sk' sound can differ from 'scout'.
- Use context clues to decide meaning quickly.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'squat'?
A.Lean
B.Sit
C.Jump
D.Laugh
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'squat' used correctly?
A.She danced squat the whole night.
B.The cat ran through the park.
C.I like to squat bananas.
D.He decided to squat on the floor.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'squat'?
A.Stand
B.Crouch
C.Float
D.Stretch
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'squat'?
A.Stand
B.Big
C.Fast
D.Sing
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use 'squat' in a real-life context?
A.Describing a tall building
B.Talking about exercise positions
C.Referring to a form of currency
D.Mentioning a type of music genre
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