worlds - Master This Word
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worlds Word Meanings
- the earth and all its inhabitants
- a particular sphere of activity or experience
- the universe or cosmos
worlds Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
worlds Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/wɜːld/
US
/wɜrld/
worlds Word Etymology
world: wer = man + ald = age; from Old English 'weorold', meaning 'man age'. Imagine a collection of all human experiences across time, like a vast library full of stories.
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 take a small breath and press my palms together as if I’m holding a globe in my hands, then I move them apart to feel the space between. I shift my gaze from the room to the window and watch the world outside begin to turn with the day, little moments changing as I choose where to look. The effort of deciding makes the scale feel real, and I adjust my pace to keep up with the flow. In this small, personal moment I sense that world is the stage I’m part of, and my actions can widen or narrow its meaning for me.
Real Context
World can refer to the Earth and all its inhabitants, a particular sphere of activity, or the cosmos. It carries both concrete senses (the planet) and abstract senses (the world of ideas, the world of sports). The etymology traces to Old English weorold meaning 'man age', suggesting a long, shared human experience. Today, speakers talk about the world as a global community, a geographic space, or an entire system (the world of work, the world of science). Learners should distinguish world from earth, country, or universe, and notice phrases like world-wide, world news, and in the world of work.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: world has multiple meanings; distinguish Earth from a country's world or the world of work. Use world-wide for global scopes. The phrase 'the world' often means people globally. Avoid confusing world with universe or cosmos in everyday talk. When talking about your field, 'the world of X' is common. 'In the world' emphasizes real-life contexts. Practice both literal and figurative uses.
Common Misconceptions
- World is the same as Earth; Earth is a planet, world is more about people and activities.
- World always means the whole cosmos, not just the planet or a field.
- Confusing 'the world' with 'the universe' in everyday talk.
- Thinking 'world' only refers to geography, not concepts like 'the world of science'.
- Misusing world vs worldwide in phrases
Thinking Differences
English speakers often treat world as both a concrete place and a broad metaphorical space; learners should note the shift from planetary to social/abstract meanings.
Learning Tips
- Compare with earth and universe to see shades of meaning
- Use world in phrases like 'world-wide' and 'the world of X'
- Practice both literal and figurative senses
- Note cultural phrases like 'in the world of work' or 'world news'
- Watch for collocations with adjectives (global, local)
Related Listening
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