subsidise - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
subsidise Word Meanings
- to provide financial support to help reduce costs
- to assist or aid by giving money
- to sponsor or fund an activity or organization
subsidise Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
subsidise Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈsʌb.sɪ.daɪz/
US
/ˈsʌb.sɪ.daɪz/
subsidise Word Etymology
Root: sub- (under) + sidere (to sit). Origin: Latin 'subsidium' (support) → Old French 'subsidiaire' → English. Memory image: Picture a fort built under a hill, providing hidden support during battles.
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
Subsidise is a verb meaning to provide financial support to help reduce costs, often aimed at making goods, services, or activities more affordable. It can describe money given directly to a person or group, such as a charity or a business, or funding an initiative through a government program or sponsor. In use, you typically subsidise something (the activity, project, or price) rather than subsidising someone personally, though people can be subsidised indirectly. This term contrasts with 'subsidy' as a noun. Remember that subsidies are often tied to policy goals like promoting industry, research, or public welfare, and the spelling 'subsidise' is common in UK English.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: subsidise something, not subsidise for someone. Use be subsidised by for passive voice. Differentiate subsidy (noun) from subsidise (verb). Common collocations include subsidise housing, subsidies for farmers, and subsidies for research. In formal writing, prefer 'subsidise' in UK contexts. For contrast, US text often uses subsidize. When describing the act, focus on the funding rather than a price cut. Avoid mixing with discounts or charitable giving. Check policy context to see if action is permanent or time-limited.
Common Misconceptions
- Subsidies are always provided by the government.
- To subsidise something means you are paying for it entirely yourself.
- Subsidise and subsidize are always interchangeable in all contexts.
- Subsidies only help big companies, not individuals.
- Subsidies always have only positive effects.
Thinking Differences
Learners often think subsidies are only government grants or think in terms of direct price cuts; in English, subsidies more clearly link to policy goals and specific beneficiaries, with careful attention to collocations like subsidise housing or research subsidies.
Learning Tips
- Note the noun vs verb: subsidy (noun) vs subsidise (verb).
- Remember the object: subsidise something, not subsidise for someone.
- Watch for passive: be subsidised by X.
- Common collocations: subsidise housing, subsidise research, government subsidies.
- UK spelling: subsidise; US spelling: subsidize.
- Differentiate from discounts or charitable giving.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'subsidise' mean?
A.To increase prices
B.To support financially
C.To manage resources
D.To create a budget
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence correctly uses 'subsidise'?
A.The teacher asked the students to subsidise their projects with extra materials.
B.She told him to subsidise his workout routine if he wanted to get fit.
C.The government decided to subsidise local businesses to boost the economy.
D.Many people chose to subsidise their meals during the festival.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'subsidise'?
A.Neglect
B.Reprimand
C.Fund
D.Restrict
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'subsidise'?
A.Support
B.Withdraw
C.Encourage
D.Aid
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where support is provided for certain groups?
A.The company asked employees to absorb the costs of training.
B.Many athletes pay for their own travel expenses.
C.The government decided to help lower-income families access education.
D.A restaurant decided to increase the prices of its menu.
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