toxic - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
toxic Word Meanings
- containing poison or harmful substances
- causing unpleasant effects or harm
- very unpleasant or unfriendly (figurative)
toxic Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
toxic Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈtɒksɪk/
US
/ˈtɑksɪk/
toxic Word Etymology
toxic = tox- (poison) + -ic (related to); from Latin 'toxicum' (poison) → Old French → English. Imagine a toxic waste barrel, with a skull and crossbones, to remember how dangerous and harmful toxicity can be.
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 grip the bottle and move it toward the window to read the label without leaning in. I tilt it, adjust my stance, and a sharp chemical smell rises, making my eyes water. I push the bottle back, pull my hand away, and set it on the counter, keeping a safe distance. The air feels toxic in that moment, and I realize some things can be harmful.
Real Context
Toxic is an adjective used to describe both substances that contain poison and effects that can harm health or well-being. It can refer to chemicals, fumes, waste, or other materials that are dangerous to touch, inhale, or ingest. In a figurative sense, toxic describes people, atmospheres, or situations that are harmful, hostile, or emotionally damaging. Common collocations include toxic chemicals, toxic waste, a toxic environment, or a toxic relationship. The word signals danger and lasting impact, so speakers choose it when they want to emphasize severity. Remember that toxicity varies by context, so you should consider exposure, dosage, and intent when applying the term.
Usage Reminders
- Remember both literal and figurative senses.
- Use toxic with substances, environments, or people when you want a strong warning.
- Common collocations: toxic chemicals, toxic waste, toxic environment, toxic relationship.
- Distinguish toxic from toxin; toxin is a poison (noun).
- In safety contexts, specify exposure or dose when possible.
Common Misconceptions
- Toxic always means deadly poison.
- Toxic and poisonous are completely interchangeable in all contexts.
- You can use toxic to describe any bad person without nuance.
- Toxicity is always a property of a substance, never of a person or environment.
- If something isn’t poisonous, it isn’t toxic.
Thinking Differences
English uses toxic for both literal poison and hostile situations with a strong emotional charge; learners should watch for context and avoid overgeneralizing to everyday negatives.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: toxic chemicals, toxic waste, toxic environment, toxic relationship.
- Practice both literal (poison) and figurative (harmful) uses with two context sets.
- Compare with toxin (noun) to avoid confusion.
- Note the strong negative connotation and avoid overusing in casual speech.
- Create at least two sentences per context (health/safety vs social).
- Watch for cross-language differences in how toxicity is expressed.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'toxic'?
A.Happy
B.Harmful
C.Tasty
D.Beautiful
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'toxic' correctly?
A.She enjoyed the toxic taste of the cake.
B.The toxic puppy was adorable.
C.He felt toxic after watching the sunset.
D.The toxic waste polluted the river.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'toxic'?
A.Safe
B.Healthy
C.Hazardous
D.Neutral
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'toxic'?
A.Non-toxic
B.Poisonous
C.Harmful
D.Pure
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context might you encounter something toxic?
A.In a science lab studying chemicals
B.At a music concert enjoying the melodies
C.At a flower garden smelling the roses
D.At a comedy show laughing with friends
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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