sprain
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /spreɪn/
KK: /spren/
noun
Definition
An injury to a joint caused by twisting or stretching that results in pain and swelling.
Example
He had to sit out of the game because he suffered a sprain in his ankle.
Conversation
I think I might have a sprain from soccer practice yesterday.
Oh no! That sounds painful. Did you twist your ankle?
Yeah, I landed awkwardly while trying to score a goal.
You should probably rest it and maybe see a doctor if it gets worse.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
strain
injury
twist
Antonyms
stability
strength
health
transitive verb
Definition
To injure a joint or ligament by twisting it suddenly, causing pain and swelling.
Example
He sprained his ankle while playing basketball.
Tense Forms
Past: sprained
Past Participle: sprained
Conversation
I think I might have sprained my ankle during the game.
Oh no! How did that happen?
I landed awkwardly after jumping for the ball and felt a sharp pain.
Root Explanation
Sprain originates from Middle English 'sprengen', meaning to burst or break. The word describes the action of twisting or wrenching a joint, causing injury.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'sprain' as a sudden 'burst' of pain in a joint when it gets twisted or wrenched.
Visually Confused Words
strain
sprint
sprink
spring
spiran
spavin
pravin
suprafine