usury - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
usury Word Meanings
- the practice of lending money at unreasonably high interest rates
- excessive interest charged on loans
- making profit from lending money
usury Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
usury Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈjuːʒəri/
US
/ˈjuːʒəri/
usury Word Etymology
usury = usus (use) + -ary (relating to). Latin → Old French → English; imagine a loan shark with a large bottle labeled 'Use' drinking up all who come to borrow, their debts hanging around their necks like weights.
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
Usury is the old word for lending money at unreasonably high interest rates, or for making profit from lending in a way that takes advantage of borrowers. In contemporary English, the term often carries a strong moral judgment rather than a precise legal definition, and it is linked with predatory practices, unfair terms, or lenders who exploit borrowers' desperation. Historically, many societies imposed interest caps to curb usury, but modern laws typically allow interest that is disclosed and negotiated, while some heavy rates may still be labeled usurious in consumer protection debates. Learners should recognize it as negative, formal, and rarely used in everyday finance discussions.
Usage Reminders
- Usury is formal and rarely used in everyday speech
- It refers to lending at unreasonably high rates or predatory practices
- Use it in historical, legal, or moral discussions, not for normal bank loans
- Connect it with 'predatory lending' or 'usurer' for the person
- Do not mistake it for simply high interest that is legal but harsh
- Be mindful of its negative connotation in most contexts
Common Misconceptions
- Any high interest rate equals usury
- Usury is illegal everywhere
- A usurer is a common everyday term for a lender
- Usury only concerns consumer loans
- Usury and interest rate are the same concept
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Note the suffix -ary in usury and the related noun usurer
- Pair usury with predatory lending when you describe conduct
- Recognize the negative tone and avoid everyday banking chats with it
- Practice with historical or legal examples
- Learn common collocations like usury laws, usurious rates
- Compare with 'exorbitant' and 'predatory' to expand nuance
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'usury'?
A.Excessive interest rate
B.A way of repayment
C.Loan forgiveness
D.Charitable donation
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'usury' used correctly?
A.She generously offered a usury deal.
B.He received a loan with usury terms.
C.The bank provided a usury grace period.
D.They avoided usury by repaying early.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'usury'?
A.Interest
B.Generosity
C.Kindness
D.Greed
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite meaning of 'usury'?
A.Charity
B.Mercy
C.Fairness
D.Lending
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context might you encounter the term 'usury'?
A.Banking
B.Cooking
C.Painting
D.Gardening
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