Definition of “Word”

Word is a fundamental unit of language that carries meaning. It is composed of one or more morphemes, which are the smallest grammatical units in a language. Words can function as parts of speech, such as nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, etc.

Different Meanings and Uses

1. Basic Unit of Language: A word is a single distinct meaningful element of speech or writing, which can stand alone or be combined with others to form sentences.
   • Example: “The word ‘apple’ refers to a type of fruit.”
2. Promise or Assurance: The term can also mean a person’s assurance or a promise.
   • Example: “He gave his word that he would be there.”
3. Command or Signal: In certain contexts, a word can signify a command or a cue to act.
   • Example: “At the word ‘go,’ they started the race.”
4. Discussion or Conversation: The phrase “a word” can refer to a brief conversation or remark.
   • Example: “Can I have a word with you?”
5. Expression or Statement: A word can also denote a remark or statement.
   • Example: “Her words were harsh and hurtful.”
6. Swearing or Oath: In some contexts, “word” can refer to a swear word or a strong expression.
   • Example: “He muttered a few choice words under his breath.”

Prepositions Used Before or After “Word”

• Before: Common prepositions used before “word” include “the,” “a,” “my,” “your,” “his,” “her,” “their,” “no,” “each,” and “every.”
• After: Prepositions commonly used after “word” include “of,” “for,” “with,” “in,” “to,” “from,” “on,” and “at.”

Collocations with “Word”

• Word of mouth: Information passed verbally from person to person.
  • Example: “The event was promoted mainly through word of mouth.”
• Word for word: Repeating something exactly as it was originally said or written.
  • Example: “He recited the poem word for word.”
• In a word: Used to summarize something briefly.
  • Example: “The movie was, in a word, amazing.”
• Word processing: The creation, editing, and formatting of text using a computer application.
  • Example: “He is skilled in word processing and document design.”
• Lost for words: Unable to think of anything to say, typically due to surprise or shock.
  • Example: “She was lost for words when she received the award.”
• Have a word with: To talk to someone briefly.
  • Example: “I need to have a word with you about the project.”
• Take someone’s word for it: To believe what someone says without needing proof.
  • Example: “I’ll take your word for it that the meeting was canceled.”

Example Sentences

1. The word “hello” is often used to greet people.
2. Can you define the word “ambiguous”?
3. He gave his word that he would return by noon.
4. The word “cat” refers to a small domesticated carnivorous mammal.
5. She looked up the word in the dictionary.
6. His words were comforting during the difficult time.
7. The teacher asked us to spell the word “friendship.”
8. He kept his word and completed the project on time.
9. I had a word with the manager about the complaint.
10. The word “happy” has many synonyms.
11. She chose her words carefully during the interview.
12. Can I have a word with you in private?
13. The word “blue” can refer to a color or a feeling.
14. His last words were filled with love and wisdom.
15. She found it hard to find the right words to express her feelings.
16. The coach gave the team some encouraging words before the game.
17. I couldn’t find the words to thank him properly.
18. The word “book” can be a noun or a verb.
19. She kept her word and didn’t tell anyone the secret.
20. He has a good command of words and language.
21. The word “freedom” means different things to different people.
22. I couldn’t understand a word of what he was saying.
23. She has a way with words that captivates her audience.
24. The word “computer” didn’t exist a hundred years ago.
25. He made a promise and stood by his word.
26. I need to find a word that rhymes with “love.”
27. The word “apple” can refer to both the fruit and the tech company.
28. His final words were a plea for peace.
29. The lawyer chose his words carefully during the trial.
30. The word “crisis” often precedes change.
31. She gave her word that she would help him.
32. They had a quick word before the meeting started.
33. The word “serendipity” describes finding something good without looking for it.
34. He was true to his word and delivered the report on time.
35. The word “butterfly” is derived from the Old English words “buterfleoge.”
36. I couldn’t get a word in edgewise during the conversation.
37. The word “fast” can mean both quick and to abstain from food.
38. She was at a loss for words when she saw the surprise.
39. The professor explained the meaning of the word “paradox.”
40. The word “bank” can refer to a financial institution or the side of a river.
41. He swore he would never go back on his word.
42. The word “spring” can mean a season or a source of water.
43. She looked up the origin of the word “etymology.”
44. He spoke words of wisdom during the ceremony.
45. The word “light” has multiple meanings, including not heavy and illumination.
46. I need a word that describes someone who is always on time.
47. The word “quarantine” comes from the Italian word “quaranta,” meaning forty.
48. She couldn’t believe her ears when she heard the word “promotion.”
49. The word “philosophy” comes from the Greek words “philo” (love) and “sophia” (wisdom).
50. He had to choose his words wisely in the negotiation.