statues - Master This Word
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statues Word Meanings
- a carved or cast figure of a person or animal
- a three-dimensional representation of an object
- a symbol or memorial typically made of stone
statues Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
statues Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈstætʃuː/
US
/ˈstætʃuː/
statues Word Etymology
Statue comes from Latin 'statua' (to stand) from 'stare' = to stand. It originated in Middle French before entering English. Imagine a statue, proud and tall, standing still, almost alive in its stillness, like a guardian watching over time.
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
First I step closer and place my palm on the cool stone, feeling the chill travel up my fingers. My eyes move along the lines, tracing the statue from head to toe as if I’m listening to its quiet story. I adjust my stance, shift my weight, and let the memory of a person or animal rise from the form. The longer I hold still and observe, the more the figure feels like a small memory I can carry, not just a sculpture.
Real Context
Statue is a carved or cast figure of a person or animal, a three-dimensional representation of an object, or a symbol or memorial typically made of stone. Statues are placed in parks, museums, streets, or public squares to honor historical figures, myths, events, or ideas. They can be realistic or abstract and are designed to be viewed from multiple angles, giving a sense of permanence and presence. The word statue often collocates with phrases such as the statue of X and with verbs related to standing or guarding. Because statues are physical objects, learners frequently confuse statue with sculpture, which refers to the broader art form rather than a specific figure.
Usage Reminders
- - Use statue for a concrete three dimensional figure, not a painting.
- - Remember the distinction between statue and sculpture.
- - After the phrase the statue of, the next word is usually a person or figure.
- - Statues are typically made from durable materials like stone or metal.
- - Use statues in formal contexts or public commemorations, not for casual depictions.
Common Misconceptions
- A statue is the same as a sculpture; statue is a specific three-dimensional figure.
- Statues must be made of stone; they can be metal or other durable materials.
- The phrase the statue of is used only for famous people; it can be any figure.
- Statues are always realistic; they can be abstract representations too.
- Statue and statue of are interchangeable with sculpture; they are not.
Thinking Differences
In English, statue signals a concrete, viewable object and often triggers associations with permanence and public memory; learners may overlook the nuance that sculpture is the broader art form and that the phrase the statue of introduces a specific subject.
Learning Tips
- Compare statue with sculpture to see the difference in meaning.
- Practice the phrase the statue of with different subjects.
- Look for statues in your city and note how they are described.
- Use durable materials as a clue to identify statues in text.
- Pluralize properly: statues, not statued.
- Record short sentences about public statues to build instincts.
Related Listening
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