concrete
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /kənˈkriːt/
KK: /kənˈkrit/
adjective
Definition
Relating to something that is real and can be perceived by the senses, rather than abstract or theoretical. It can also refer to a solid material made from cement, sand, and gravel.
Example
The architect presented a concrete plan for the new building.
Conversation
Did you see the new park they built downtown?
Yeah, I did! It looks really concrete and modern.
I love how they used concrete benches instead of wood.
Exactly! They’re going to last a lot longer that way.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tangible
solid
specific
Antonyms
abstract
vague
imprecise
intransitive verb
Definition
To become hard or solid, often used in the context of materials like cement.
Example
The mixture will concrete as it dries.
Tense Forms
Past: concreted
Past Participle: concreted
Conversation
Have you seen how the cement starts to concrete in the sun?
Yeah, it's interesting how it changes texture as it hardens.
I didn't realize it would concrete so quickly when it's hot outside.
noun
Definition
A strong building material made from a mixture of cement, water, sand, and gravel that hardens over time.
Example
The workers poured concrete to create a strong foundation for the building.
Conversation
Did you see the new building they put up downtown?
Yeah, it's made of concrete and looks really modern.
I heard they used recycled materials in the concrete mix.
transitive verb
Definition
To make something solid or firm by using a strong building material made from cement, sand, and gravel.
Example
The workers will concrete the foundation of the new building tomorrow.
Tense Forms
Past: concreted
Past Participle: concreted
Conversation
Did you see how they concrete the new park path?
Yeah, it looks really sturdy now!
I think it's great they decided to concrete it instead of just paving it.
Root Explanation
Concrete → It is formed from "con-" (meaning together) and "cretus" (from the Latin "crescere", meaning to grow or increase). The word "concrete" originally referred to something that is grown or formed together, which relates to its modern meaning of a solid material made by mixing cement, water, and aggregates.
Memory Tip
Think of things that are 'grown together' ('con-') to form a solid structure, which helps you remember that 'concrete' is a material that is formed by combining elements.
Visually Confused Words
unconcrete
reconcrete
inconcrete
cocreate
unconcreted
semiconcrete
ocreate
conacre