valid - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
valid Word Meanings
- legally acceptable or authorized
- well-founded and justifiable
- effective or functioning properly
valid Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
valid Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈvæl.ɪd/
US
/ˈvæl.ɪd/
valid Word Etymology
valid = val- (to be strong) + -id (having the quality of); Origin: Latin 'validus' → Old French 'valide' → English. Imagine a sturdy document being validated with a strong stamp of approval.
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 hold the document steady, push the stamp, and turn the page to check the date. The ink leaves a clean mark, the edges align, and the process moves forward. I feel the effort, adjusting and keeping control, letting the sequence set in. When everything is in place, the form carries a quiet weight, as if it can be used and counted as valid.
Real Context
Valid covers three related ideas: something legally acceptable or authorized, a claim or argument that is well founded and justifiable, and something that works as intended or is functioning properly. In law, a document or contract is valid if it follows the rules and remains enforceable. In logic, a valid argument has a logical form that guarantees a conclusion from the premises, regardless of the truth of the premises themselves. In everyday use, you might say a device or system is valid if it operates correctly. Learners often confuse these senses, or mistake valid for merely useful, so paying attention to context is essential.
Usage Reminders
- Use valid for documents, laws, arguments, and devices that work.
- Do not confuse valid with valuable or useful.
- Watch for expiration dates and enforceability.
- In logic, a valid argument has a correct form.
- In daily talk, valid can mean reasonable, not just true.
Common Misconceptions
- Valid means true; it also means legally acceptable.
- A valid argument is always a true argument.
- A valid document cannot be expired.
- Valid and legitimate are the same.
- Something useful is automatically valid.
Thinking Differences
Native English speakers tend to treat valid as a broad umbrella term covering legal validity, logical soundness, and practical functionality. Learners often overgeneralize to mean merely 'useful' or confuse with 'valuable'. Emphasis on context (legal vs. logical vs. functional) is crucial to avoid false friends.
Learning Tips
- Create flashcards for each sense: legal, logical, and functional.
- Compare sentences with valid vs invalid to highlight contrasts.
- Practice with documents, arguments, and devices in context.
- Learn common collocations: valid passport, valid argument, valid device.
- Use opposite: invalid to reinforce the difference.
- Listen for context cues like law, reasoning, or operation.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'valid' used correctly?
A.The cat is valid.
B.She ran validly.
C.His argument seemed valid.
D.The sky is valid.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a synonym of 'valid'?
A.Fake
B.Invalid
C.Legitimate
D.False
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what situation would the word 'valid' be used?
A.Describing someone's favorite color
B.Confirming a ticket for a show
C.Talking about the weather
D.Discussing fictional characters
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where the word 'valid' would be appropriate?
A.Visiting a museum and having a valid ticket
B.Sitting in a park and watching the trees
C.Reading a novel and enjoying the story
D.Cooking a meal at home
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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