tremor - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
tremor Word Meanings
- a shaking or vibration, often due to an earthquake
- a small, rapid movement
- a quivering sensation in the body
tremor Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
tremor Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈtrɛmə/
US
/ˈtrɛmər/
tremor Word Etymology
tremor = trem- (to shake) + -or (noun form) from Latin. Origin: Latin 'tremere' → Old French → English. Imagine the ground shaking as if it’s trembling beneath your feet during an earthquake.
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
tremor is a noun meaning a shaking or vibration. It can describe the ground moving during an earthquake, a small, rapid movement, or a quivering sensation in the body. You might hear it used for medical tremors in the hands or legs, caused by nerves, fatigue, or medicine. In geology and engineering, tremor signals are often weaker than a full quake but still noticeable. Common collocations include a tremor, mild tremor, occasional tremor, and phrases like tremor of the jaw or tremor in the voice. The word emphasizes the subtle, repeated motion rather than a big jump. Etymology: from tremere, Latin, via Old French.
Usage Reminders
- Use a tremor for small, repeated motion; reserve shake for a bigger, abrupt movement. Mention medical tremors with hands or voice; discuss geographic or equipment tremor in geology or engineering. Tremor is a noun, plural tremors in everyday use. Avoid using tremor to describe strong emotions. When speaking about earthquakes, tremor is common but not the only word.
Common Misconceptions
- Tremor is not the same as a violent earthquake; it is usually smaller or more subtle.
- Tremor is a noun, not a verb (to tremor is incorrect).
- Tremor does not always describe emotions; it often refers to physical movement.
- Medical tremors are about involuntary movement, not fear.
- Tremor and tremors are used differently in medical vs lay contexts; context matters.
Thinking Differences
English tends to reserve tremor for subtle, ongoing motion and uses shake or quake for more dramatic movements; learners often overgeneralize tremor to any shaking.
Learning Tips
- Learn tremor with two main senses: earth/ground movement and body movement.
- Pair tremor with a body part: tremor in the hands, tremor in the voice.
- Compare with shake and shiver to feel nuance.
- In medical contexts, remember tremor implies involuntary movement.
- Use in scientific or news contexts to describe subtle vibrations.
- Practice with both concrete and abstract examples to lock meaning.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'tremor'?
A.Shake
B.Agitate
C.Fight
D.Calm
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'tremor' used correctly?
A.He is always calm, never showing a tremor of fear.
B.She liked to tremor with her friends after school.
C.The book tremor was fascinating to read.
D.The cat fell asleep after a long tremor.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a synonym for 'tremor'?
A.Quake
B.Stillness
C.Peace
D.Calmness
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'tremor'?
A.Quiver
B.Jitter
C.Agitation
D.Stability
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you most likely experience a tremor?
A.Sleeping
B.Eating
C.Reading
D.During an earthquake
Related Listening
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