edifying
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈɛdɪfaɪɪŋ/
KK: /ˈɛdɪfaɪɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Something that teaches or improves your understanding, often in a positive way.
Example
Reading that book was an edifying experience for me.
Conversation
I just finished reading that new book you recommended.
Oh, nice! Was it edifying?
Definitely! It really opened my eyes to new ideas.
I'm glad to hear that; I love books that are edifying.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
instructive
uplifting
enlightening
Antonyms
uninformative
misleading
confusing
verb
Definition
To improve someone's mind or character, especially by teaching them moral or intellectual lessons.
Example
The lecture was edifying and helped the students understand the complex topic better.
Tense Forms
Past: edified
Past Participle: edified
Conversation
I just finished a book that's really edifying.
Oh really? What’s it about?
It covers different philosophies and how they apply to our lives.
Root Explanation
Edifying → It is formed from "edify" (from Latin "aedificare", meaning to build) and the suffix "-ing" (indicating the action or process). The word "edifying" means relating to the process of building up or improving someone intellectually or morally.
Memory Tip
Think of 'building' ('aedificare') someone up intellectually or morally when you hear 'edifying'.
Visually Confused Words
unedifying