preach

/pri:tʃ/

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Certainly! Let's break down the word "preach" in an easy-to-understand way.

Definition:

The verb "preach" means to speak or talk about a belief or idea strongly, often trying to convince others to accept it. It can also refer to delivering a religious message during a church service (called a sermon).

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "preach" when someone is trying to persuade others about something important to them, whether it's a belief, idea, or behavior.
• It is often used in a religious context, but it can also be used more generally.

Examples:

1. Religious Context: "The minister is not preaching this Sunday."

   • This means the minister will not be delivering a sermon on that day.

2. General Context: "My friend likes to preach about the importance of recycling."

   • Here, it means that the friend talks a lot about recycling and tries to encourage others to recycle.

Advanced Usage:

• You can also say someone "preaches to the choir," which means they are talking to people who already agree with them.

Word Variants:

• Preacher (noun): A person who preaches, especially in a religious context.

  • Example: "The preacher gave an inspiring sermon."

• Preaching (noun): The act of delivering a sermon or discussing beliefs.

  • Example: "Her preaching about kindness inspired many."

Different Meanings:

• Preach can also mean to give moral advice or to express opinions strongly, even when it’s not in a religious context.
  • Example: "He tends to preach about healthy living, even when others are not interested."

Synonyms:

• Advocate
• Promote
• Urge
• Sermonize (more formal)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Preach to the converted": Talking to someone who already agrees with you.

  • Example: "He was just preaching to the converted when he spoke about the benefits of meditation."

• "Practice what you preach": To do what you tell others to do.

  • Example: "If you want people to be healthy, you need to practice what you preach."

Summary:

"Preach" is a versatile word that can refer to both religious and non-religious discussions about beliefs or ideas. It involves persuasion and can reflect a strong commitment to a particular viewpoint.

Academic

Verb

1. speak, plead, or argue in favor of
   • The doctor advocated a smoking ban in the entire house
2. deliver a sermon
   • The minister is not preaching this Sunday

Synonyms

• advocate
• prophesy