thrill - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
thrill Word Meanings
- to cause excitement or pleasure
- a sudden feeling of excitement
- a sensation of excitement or pleasure
thrill Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
thrill Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/θrɪl/
US
/θrɪl/
thrill Word Etymology
Root decomposition: thrill (possibly from Old Norse 'thrilla' = to tremble). Historical origin: Old Norse → Middle English. Memory image: Imagine the rush of a roller coaster ride, heart racing and body shaking with excitement.
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
Thrill is a strong feeling of excitement and pleasure caused by something exciting or dangerous, often accompanied by a physical reaction such as a racing heart, fast breathing, or a shiver. As a verb, to thrill means to cause that excitement in someone, or for you to feel it yourself. It tends to imply a memorable, vivid moment—think of a roller coaster drop, winning a prize, or hearing surprising news. The nuance includes both positive exhilaration and an adrenaline rush; it’s stronger than simple happiness or interest, but not always tied to danger. Learners should distinguish thrill from mere excitement and note that usage can vary by context and collocation.
Usage Reminders
- - Use thrill for strong, vivid excitement, often with a hint of risk.
- - Say I am thrilled or it thrills me for personal reactions; say thrilling for the experience.
- - Pair with nouns like 'the thrill of victory' or 'the thrill of a comeback.'
- - Don't use thrill for mundane happiness; reserve for marked moments.
- - Notice collocations: thrill-seeker, thrilling performance, adrenaline-thrill.
- - Check if the subject is a person or a thing that causes the feeling.
Common Misconceptions
- Thrill is the same as simple happiness or interest.
- All thrilling moments involve danger.
- To thrill someone is the same as to please them mildly.
- Thrill should only describe events, not people’s reactions.
- Thrill and excited are interchangeable in all contexts.
Thinking Differences
In English, thrill emphasizes a strong, vivid jolt of excitement that can be positive or edge-of-seat; it’s often used for memorable moments and collocates with certain nouns and adjectives. Learners should note that thrill is stronger than simple excitement and that phrases like 'thrill of victory' or 'thrill-seeking' carry specific connotations.
Learning Tips
- Study common collocations: thrill of victory, thrilling ride, thrill-seeker.
- Differentiate be thrilled (personal feeling) vs something thrilling (the thing itself).
- Use adjectives like thrilling or exhilarating to emphasize intensity.
- Include physical cues: racing heart, tremor, adrenaline rush.
- Compare with excited and aroused to grasp intensity differences.
- Practice with real-life scenarios: sports wins, performances, surprises.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'thrill'?
A.Type of car
B.Feeling of excitement
C.To cook food
D.Color of the sky
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'thrill' correctly?
A.I painted the wall blue.
B.She likes to dance.
C.Let's go shopping for shoes.
D.The roller coaster was a thrill.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'thrill'?
A.Exhilaration
B.Boring
C.Sad
D.Calm
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'thrill'?
A.Surprise
B.Boredom
C.Excitement
D.Joy
Step 5: Mastery
In what situation would you feel a 'thrill'?
A.Watching paint dry
B.Folding laundry
C.Reading a dictionary
D.Skydiving for the first time
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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