virus - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
virus Word Meanings
- a small infectious agent that replicates only inside the living cells of an organism
- something that corrupts or damages systems
- a computer program that replicates itself and spreads to other computers
virus Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
virus Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈvaɪərəs/
US
/ˈvaɪrəs/
virus Word Etymology
Root: virus = poison; Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English; Memory image: Imagine a tiny poison dart that sneaks into a cell and takes over its functions, spreading further.
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 pick up a tiny model and turn it in my hand, feeling the weight shift as I rotate it. A second copy slides out and starts to fill the desk, as if it learned to copy itself. I push a button, watching the glow change and the little shapes spread a little farther; I adjust my grip to keep it under control. In that tempo of turn and spread, I sense a virus—something that can move through bodies or through machines, changing what it touches.
Real Context
Virus is a small infectious agent that replicates only inside living cells of an organism. It can refer to a biological virus that harms humans, animals, or plants, or to a computer virus that copies itself and spreads across networks. In everyday use, virus also stands for anything that corrupts or damages a system, program, or data. Learners should distinguish biological and computer senses, watch for collocations such as viral infection, antiviral drug, or antivirus software, and recognize that viruses are not alive in the same way as cellular organisms according to many scientists.
Usage Reminders
- - Remember the two main senses: biology and computing
- - Check collocations like viral infection or antivirus software
- - Do not confuse virus with bacteria or germs
- - Note that antibiotics do not treat viral infections
- - Use plural viruses for multiple agents; virus is singular as a count noun
Common Misconceptions
- Viruses are alive in the same way as bacteria
- Antibiotics cure viral infections
- All viruses make you sick
- Vaccines cause infections
- If you have a virus, you have it forever
Thinking Differences
English speakers rely on distinct biological vs computing domains; learners should seek explicit phrases like 'virus infection' and 'computer virus' to avoid generic use.
Learning Tips
- Learn the two main senses first and label examples
- Practice with common collocations (infection, antiviral, antivirus)
- Distinguish biological terms from computing terms
- Use authentic contexts (news, tech articles) to see usage
- Remember that antibiotics do not treat viral infections
- Read about computer security to reinforce the computing sense
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'virus'?
A.Chemical
B.Infection
C.Energy
D.Epidemic
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following scenarios would you most likely encounter a virus?
A.Cooking a meal
B.Exercising at the gym
C.Using a computer
D.Walking in a park
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a similar word to 'virus'?
A.Medicine
B.Bacteria
C.Vaccine
D.Health
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'virus'?
A.Antibiotic
B.Clean
C.Immune
D.Healthy
Step 5: Mastery
Where would you most likely encounter information about computer viruses?
A.Fashion magazine
B.Cooking show
C.School textbook
D.Fitness blog
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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