FluencyCraft

word

"Word" is a fascinating English word that works in several different ways. Most commonly it's a noun referring to a unit of language, but it also works as a verb and carries some powerful figurative meanings. Here are the most common and useful senses.

1noununit of language

A word is the smallest unit of language that has meaning and can stand on its own. Think of it as a building block of sentences — letters come together to form a word, and words come together to form sentences.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

'Cat' is a word with three letters.

I didn't understand every word in the article, so I looked some up.

She spoke so fast that I missed half the words.

2nounfigurativea promise or guarantee

When someone gives you their 'word', they are making a serious personal promise. It means you can trust what they say. This is one of the most common figurative uses of the word.

everyday language · Modern, widely used · figurative

He gave me his word that he would return the money.

I promise — you have my word.

She is a woman of her word; she always does what she says.

3nounfigurativea short message or conversation

You can use 'word' to mean a brief message or a quick conversation. For example, 'Can I have a word with you?' means 'Can we talk for a moment?' It suggests something short and informal.

everyday language · Modern, widely used · figurative

Can I have a word with you after the meeting?

She sent word that she would be late.

I'll put in a good word for you with the manager.

4nounfigurativenews or information

When 'word' means news or information, it refers to something that is being passed from person to person — like a rumour or an announcement. You often see it in phrases like 'word got out' or 'word spread'.

everyday language · Modern, widely used · figurative

Word spread quickly that the school was closing.

Have you heard any word about the job application?

Word got out that they were getting married.

5verbto express something in a particular way

When you 'word' something, you choose specific language to express an idea. It is about how you phrase or write something. You might 'word' a message carefully so it does not sound rude.

everyday language / writing · Modern, widely used

She worded her complaint very politely.

How you word your email can make a big difference.

The question was worded in a confusing way.

Content generated by AI — may contain inaccuracies