supply - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
supply Word Meanings
- to provide what is needed
- a quantity of something available for use
- to furnish or equip
supply Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
supply Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/səˈplaɪ/
US
/səˈplaɪ/
supply Word Etymology
supply = sub- (under) + plere (to fill) → Latin (subplenare) → Old French (supleir) → English. Imagine a warehouse supplying goods, filling shelves to meet demand.
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 reach for a shelf and grab a bottle, then move it to the counter. I push a few more items forward, adjust the spacing so everything fits, and keep an eye on what’s running low. As I set things down, I feel the moment of supply—giving what is needed so others can go on. The movement stays with me and meaning grows in use, one small decision at a time.
Real Context
Supply has two core senses in everyday English. As a verb, it means to provide what is needed or to furnish someone with something they require, often with an emphasis on meeting demand quickly or reliably. As a noun, supply refers to the amount of something that is available for use, such as a steady supply of water or the inventory in a warehouse. In business and economics you’ll see phrases like supply chain and supplies, which blend the act of providing with the stock on hand. When talking about time or money, choose your noun or verb carefully to express provisioning, stock, or delivery.
Usage Reminders
- - Use supply as a verb to mean provide or furnish something needed.
- - Use supply as a noun for the amount available or stock on hand.
- - Watch for common collocations like supply chain and supplies.
- - Distinguish supply from provide depending on formality and context.
- - In economics, think of supply vs demand as opposing concepts.
Common Misconceptions
- Supply is always about money or time, not about providing objects.
- Supply and provide are interchangeable in all contexts.
- A large stock means a high supply in every situation.
- Supply only refers to physical goods, not services.
- Supply is the opposite of demand in all contexts.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, supply often switches between two forms with subtle nuance: the act of giving (verb) vs the amount on hand (noun). Learners frequently confuse supply with provide or confuse stock with inventory, especially in business contexts like supply chain.
Learning Tips
- Practice with both noun and verb forms.
- Pay attention to collocations like supply chain.
- Differentiate supply from provide in formal contexts.
- Use 'steady supply' to talk about stock levels.
- Think supply vs demand in economics as complementary concepts.
- Remember that 'supplies' often refers to a collection of items.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'supply'?
A.Demand
B.Provide
C.Reduce
D.Destroy
Step 2: Usage
How can 'supply' be used in a sentence?
A.The store ran out of supply.
B.She refused to supply the necessary materials.
C.The supply of water was limited.
D.He demanded an ample supply.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'supply'?
A.Waste
B.Offer
C.Avoid
D.Neglect
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'supply'?
A.Fulfill
B.Aid
C.Sustain
D.Deprive
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you hear the word 'supply'?
A.Library
B.Hospital
C.Park
D.Supermarket
Related Listening
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