threshold - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
threshold Word Meanings
- the bottom of a doorway
- a point of entering or beginning
- a level or point at which something begins to happen
threshold Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
threshold Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈθrɛʃ.həʊld/
US
/ˈθrɛʃ.hoʊld/
threshold Word Etymology
threshold: from 'thresh' = to separate, + 'hold' = to support. Origin from Old English 'þresc' → Middle English 'threshold' → Modern English. Imagine a farmer separating wheat at the door of their barn, where the action of entering signifies a new beginning.
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 push the door and step onto the threshold, where inside and outside meet. The air shifts as I move forward, a small change in light and sound signaling something new is beginning. I steady my breath, push a little, and adjust my pace to keep my balance. That edge becomes a threshold I recognize—a starting line for whatever comes next.
Real Context
Threshold is a flexible noun that marks a boundary or starting point, not just a physical edge. In its literal sense it is the bottom of a doorway, or the sill one must pass to enter a room. Metaphorically it signals the moment a new situation begins or a condition is triggered, such as crossing the threshold into adulthood or reaching a performance threshold in study or work. In science and technology a threshold is a value that must be exceeded to produce an effect, while in everyday speech people refer to thresholds of tolerance or risk. The word implies crossing from one state to another, and collocations vary by context.
Usage Reminders
- Think of threshold as a boundary or starting point
- Differentiate literal (doorstep) from figurative uses (start of a phase)
- Be mindful of whether you need a physical boundary word or a measurement term
- Check collocations like threshold value, threshold of pain, threshold for entry
- Avoid using threshold where limit or cap is a clearer fit
Common Misconceptions
- A threshold is only the bottom of a doorway and nothing else
- Threshold and limit are always interchangeable
- Crossing a threshold always changes something instantly
- Threshold cannot refer to abstract concepts like pain or risk
- The physical door threshold always equals the figurative threshold
Thinking Differences
In English, threshold blends physical and abstract senses and often collocates with words like value, limit, and boundary. Learners should note the many metaphorical uses (eg, threshold of pain, threshold for entry) and avoid overgeneralizing a single sense across contexts.
Learning Tips
- memorize both literal and figurative senses
- practice collocations with value, limit, boundary
- learn domain-specific uses (eg, threshold of pain, threshold value)
- notice the translations in each language (门槛, 阈值, etc)
- create sentences that switch between senses
- review common misconceptions and correct them
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'threshold'?
A.A barrier
B.A window
C.A chair
D.A table
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is the word 'threshold' used correctly?
A.She sat on the threshold of the room.
B.He drove the threshold to work.
C.The cat chased the threshold.
D.I threshold to go home.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'threshold'?
A.Peak
B.Boundary
C.Calm
D.Eternal
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'threshold'?
A.Bridge
B.Tolerance
C.Pinnacle
D.Hindrance
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you encounter a 'threshold'?
A.Playing a game
B.Watching a movie
C.Eating dinner
D.Entering a building
Related Listening
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