semifinal
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌsɛmɪˈfaɪnəl/
KK: /ˈsɛmɪˌfaɪnəl/
adjective
Definition
Relating to the round before the final in a competition, especially in sports or contests.
Example
The team played exceptionally well in the semifinal match.
Conversation
Did you see the semifinal match last night?
Yes, it was so exciting!
I can't believe how close the score was in the semifinal.
Right? I was on the edge of my seat the whole time!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
penultimate
preliminary
intermediate
Antonyms
final
initial
ultimate
noun
Definition
A competition or match that comes before the final round, often determining who will compete in the final.
Example
The team won their semifinal and advanced to the championship game.
Conversation
Did you catch the semifinal game last night?
Yes, it was so exciting! I can’t believe how close it was.
I know, right? The semifinal really had me on the edge of my seat.
Root Explanation
Semifinal → It is formed from "semi-" (meaning half) and "final" (from Latin "finalis", meaning pertaining to the end). The word "semifinal" refers to a match or round that is half of the final stage, determining who will advance to the final.
Memory Tip
Think of 'semi-' meaning half, and 'final' meaning the end — a semifinal is a match that is half of the way to the final.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.