word

A unit of language with a meaning, used in speech, writing, or signing.

• What does this word mean?
• She wrote five words on the board.
• Can you pronounce the last word?

Common phrases: new word, spell a word, word meaning

A brief talk with someone.

• Can we have a word?
• I had a quiet word with the manager.
• She wants a word with you about tomorrow.

How to use it: have a word with someone (Can I have a word with you after lunch?); have a word about something (We need to have a word about your attendance.)

Similar words: chat, talk

Common phrases: have a word, a quiet word, word with someone

A serious promise that you will do something or that something is true.

• He always keeps his word.
• You have my word that I will help.
• She broke her word and told everyone.

How to use it: give someone your word that… (I give you my word that I will return it.)

Similar words: promise, assurance

Common phrases: give your word, keep your word, someone’s word

News or a message about someone or something.

• Have you had word from Tom?
• She sent word that she would be late.
• Word of the discovery spread quickly.

How to use it: word of something (We received word of their safe arrival.); word that… (Word came that the road had reopened.)

Similar words: news, message

Common phrases: send word, word spreads, word from someone

The Bible or the message that Christians believe comes from God.

• They gathered to hear the Word.
• She reads God’s Word every morning.
• The preacher encouraged them to spread the word.

Similar words: Scripture, gospel

Common phrases: the Word, God’s Word, spread the word

A spoken signal, password, or short saying that tells people what to do.

• Give the word and we’ll begin.
• The guards waited for the word to advance.
• Keep this secret; mum’s the word.

How to use it: give the word to do something (The captain gave the word to advance.)

Similar words: signal, watchword, password

Common phrases: give the word, say the word, mum’s the word

To choose particular language to express something in speech or writing.

• How should I word this message?
• She worded her request very politely.
• The notice was worded so badly that nobody understood it.

Similar words: phrase, express

Common phrases: word something carefully, word a question, word a message

Used to show that you agree with what someone has said.

• “That was a great show.” “Word!”
• “We need a break.” “Word, man.”
• “Good friends matter.” “Word, bro!”

Similar words: indeed, exactly

Common phrases: word bro, word man