tiger - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
tiger Word Meanings
- a big striped wild cat from Asia
- a fierce, formidable person or force
- an apparent power that may be insubstantial, as in paper tiger
tiger Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
tiger Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈtaɪɡə/
US
/ˈtaɪɡər/
tiger Word Etymology
Root decomposition: prefix none; root tigr-; suffix -er forms a noun. Historical origin: borrowed from Latin tigris, from Greek tígris, via Old French tigre; ultimately from Persian tigra and Sanskrit vyāghra. Memory image: imagine a striped hunter prowling a sunlit jungle, tail sweeping the air.
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
Tiger is a large striped wild cat native to Asia, renowned for power, speed, and stealth. In everyday English it also names a fierce, formidable person or force, and in the phrase paper tiger it points to something that looks threatening but is weak in reality. The word comes from Latin tigris, Greek tígris, via Old French tigre, with deeper roots in Persian tigra and Sanskrit vyāghra. A vivid memory image helps learners: a striped hunter prowling a sunlit jungle, tail sweeping the air, patient and ready to strike. Knowing these senses helps you spot tiger in wildlife writing, sports metaphors, and idioms with confidence.
Usage Reminders
- Remember tiger is a real animal
- Use tiger for a fierce person or force
- Beware paper tiger for something that seems strong but isn’t
- Watch collocations: tiger cub, tiger stripe, tiger mom
- Avoid overusing tiger in every metaphor; pair with context
- Pronounce taɪgər clearly and stress the first syllable
Common Misconceptions
- Tiger is only a literal animal and never used metaphorically
- All tiger meanings imply extreme danger
- Paper tiger always means something fake or fraudulent
- Tiger cannot describe a person in sports or teamwork
- Confusing tiger with lion in idioms
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Listen for tiger in wildlife reports and sports commentary
- Learn both animal and metaphor senses separately
- Practice with phrases: tiger cub, tiger stripe, paper tiger
- Compare with lion in idioms to spot nuance
- Identify the context to choose literal vs metaphor meaning
- Pronounce tiger the first syllable with emphasis
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'tiger'?
A.A small rodent with a bushy tail
B.A type of bird with colorful feathers
C.A large wild cat with orange fur and black stripes
D.A reptile that lives in the ocean
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'tiger' used correctly?
A.She saw a tiger flying in the sky.
B.The zookeeper fed the tiger at the zoo.
C.I bought a tiger to grow in my garden.
D.Tigers are known for their ability to swim.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'tiger'?
A.Lion
B.Elephant
C.Giraffe
D.Zebra
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an opposite of 'tiger'?
A.Owl
B.Bunny
C.Shark
D.Bear
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you most likely see a tiger?
A.A pet store
B.A library
C.A forest
D.A movie theater
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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