emergency
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪˈmɜːrdʒənsi/
KK: /ɪˈmɜrdʒənsi/
adjective
Definition
A situation that requires immediate action or attention, often due to danger or risk.
Example
The hospital is prepared for any emergency that may arise.
Conversation
Did you hear about the emergency supplies they are giving out?
Yeah, I saw that! It’s great they're helping those in need.
I think everyone should have a plan for emergency situations.
Absolutely, it's better to be prepared than to panic later.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
urgent
critical
crucial
Antonyms
minor
trivial
insignificant
noun
Definition
A situation that requires immediate action or help, often because it is dangerous or unexpected.
Example
The fire department responded quickly to the emergency at the building.
Conversation
Did you hear about the emergency at the mall yesterday?
Yeah, I read about it online; it sounded really serious.
I can't believe they had to evacuate everyone due to that emergency.
Root Explanation
Emergency → It is formed from "emergere" (Latin, meaning to rise out or come forth) and the suffix "-cy" (meaning state or condition). The word "emergency" refers to the state of something that has risen out of the ordinary, requiring immediate attention.
Memory Tip
Think of something that has 'risen out' of the ordinary and needs urgent action — that's what an emergency is.
Visually Confused Words
detergency
vergency
mergence