vegetarian - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
vegetarian Word Meanings
- a person who does not eat meat
- related to a diet excluding meat
- a lifestyle focused on plant-based foods
vegetarian Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
vegetarian Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌvɛdʒ.ɪˈteə.ri.ən/
US
/ˌvɛdʒ.ɪˈtɛr.i.ən/
vegetarian Word Etymology
vegetarian = vegetate (to grow) + -arian (one who), from Latin vegetare (to enliven) → Old French → English. Imagine a person joyfully tending a lush garden, their commitment to plant life symbolizing harmony with nature.
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
Vegetarian is a word used for someone who does not eat meat, and it can also describe foods, diets, or lifestyles centered on plant-based ingredients. As a noun, you say, 'She is a vegetarian,' or, as an adjective, 'vegetarian meals' or 'vegetarian options.' The word implies excluding meat but not necessarily all animal products, so many vegetarians still eat dairy or eggs. In everyday English, you may discuss a vegetarian diet when planning meals, at restaurants, or while studying nutrition. The etymology links to 'vegetate' and the suffix -arian, but the concept is practical and varied across cultures, from occasional meatlessness to strict, long-term plant-based living.
Usage Reminders
- Can be used as a noun or an adjective
- Not automatically vegan; dairy and eggs are common
- Often paired with diet or lifestyle
- Singular: a vegetarian; plural rarely used as a noun
- Vegetarian diet vs vegetarian person; choose wording by context
Common Misconceptions
- Vegetarian means vegan (no dairy or eggs)
- Vegetarian = someone who only eats vegetables
- All vegetarians avoid meat at every meal
- Vegetarian food is always healthy for everyone
- Being vegetarian is a strict, never-changing label
Thinking Differences
In English, the concept often highlights choice and lifestyle without implying perfection, so learners should note that vegetarian can include dairy or eggs and is not automatically vegan; mistakes often involve assuming dairy-free and egg-free meaning.
Learning Tips
- Practice noun and adjective forms with common phrases
- Remember dairy/eggs can appear in vegetarian diets
- Pair with diet, lifestyle, or options to clarify meaning
- Check restaurant menus for 'vegetarian options'
- Know common collocations: vegetarian diet, vegetarian meal
- Compare with vegan to avoid confusion
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'vegetarian'?
A.Someone who only eats meat
B.Someone who only eats vegetables
C.Someone who only eats dairy products
D.Someone who only eats sweets
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'vegetarian' correctly?
A.She is a vegetarian who loves to eat steaks.
B.My friend is a vegetarian and always chooses tofu over meat.
C.The vegetarian ordered a pepperoni pizza.
D.He claims to be a vegetarian, yet he ate chicken last night.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'vegetarian'?
A.Herbivore
B.Omnivore
C.Carnivore
D.Pescatarian
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'vegetarian'?
A.Meat lover
B.Locavore
C.Flexitarian
D.Vegan
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario involving dietary choices?
A.The person only eats junk food.
B.She follows a diet focused on fruits and vegetables.
C.He is a fan of fast food restaurants.
D.My roommate cooks meat dishes every day.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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