vacancies - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
vacancies Word Meanings
- an unoccupied space or position
- a position or job that is available
- the state of being empty
vacancies Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
vacancies Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈveɪkənsi/
US
/ˈveɪkənsi/
vacancies Word Etymology
vacancy: vac- = empty, -ancy = state of. Origin: Latin 'vacans' → Old French 'vacance' → English. Imagine a vacant lot, free and waiting for a building to take its place, symbolizing emptiness and potential.
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
Vacancy is a versatile noun in English. It can describe an unoccupied space, such as a vacant lot, a shelf with a missing item, or a seat left empty. It can also mean a job opening—a position that a company is actively seeking to fill. Finally, vacancy can refer to the state of being empty itself, as in a room or building left free for someone else. The word is commonly used in business, real estate, tourism, and administration. Its adjective form is vacant, and you’ll hear about current vacancies and upcoming vacancies when planning staffing or space use. Etymology notes: vac- means empty, -ancy denotes a state.
Usage Reminders
- Use vacancy for a job opening or an unoccupied space. Avoid using it for people. Vacancies is the plural form for more than one opening. Vacant is an adjective meaning empty, not the noun vacancy. Common collocations: job vacancy, vacancy rate, vacancies available. Pronounce vak-ən-see. Reserve vs vacancy: treat them separately in real estate contexts. The word can also describe the state of being empty, as in a room that is vacant. When planning staffing, you may say there are current vacancies.
Common Misconceptions
- Vacancy refers only to jobs, not spaces.
- Vacant and vacancy are interchangeable as nouns.
- Vacancy always implies something new; not 'empty' by itself.
- Vacancy cannot describe people.
- Use 'there is a vacancy' not 'there is vacancy'.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: vacancy covers space, job openings, and emptiness; English uses distinct noun senses and pluralization for multiple openings.
Learning Tips
- Recognize the three core senses: space, job opening, and emptiness.
- Use plural vacancies for multiple openings.
- Remember vacant is the adjective; vacancy is the noun.
- Pair with job vacancy or vacancies available in HR contexts.
- Practice pronunciation: /ˈveɪ. kən. si/.
- Watch false friends like vacation to avoid mix-ups.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'vacancies'?
A.A state of being busy
B.Unoccupied positions or spaces
C.A type of weather phenomenon
D.A synonym for success
Step 2: Usage
Identify the correct usage of the word 'vacancies' in a sentence.
A.The store was filled with vacancies of products.
B.There are several vacancies available for the job you applied for.
C.She enjoys filling her time with activities during her vacancies.
D.The vacancies in the park were filled with flowers.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'vacancies'?
A.Jobs
B.Positions
C.Employments
D.Opportunities
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of the word 'vacancies'?
A.Houses
B.Fills
C.Occupancies
D.Contents
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where 'vacancies' might be relevant?
A.Our meeting was filled with excitement and energy.
B.They decided to redecorate the vacancies to make them more appealing.
C.The apartment complex has some units that are currently open for new tenants.
D.The restaurant is fully booked for the evening.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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