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telegraph

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈtɛlɪˌɡræf/

KK: /ˈtɛlɪˌgræf/

intransitive verb
Definition

To send a message using a system of wires and signals, typically over long distances.


Example

In the past, people would telegraph important news to each other.


Tense Forms

Past: telegraphed

Past Participle: telegraphed


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever sent a message using a telegraph?
Sloth B
No, I haven't! That sounds interesting though.
Sloth A
I read that people used to telegraph important news long ago.
Sloth B
Yeah, it must have been quite a different experience back then!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
signal
communicate
transmit
Antonyms
conceal
withhold
suppress
noun
Definition

A system or device used to send messages over long distances using electrical signals, often through wires.


Example

In the 19th century, people relied on the telegraph to communicate quickly across great distances.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever sent a telegraph before?
Sloth B
No, I haven't! I think it's an old-fashioned way to communicate.
Sloth A
Yeah, but I find it interesting how people used to send messages quickly.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To send a message or convey information to someone, often using a system of signals or symbols.


Example

He telegraphed the news to his family as soon as he arrived.


Tense Forms

Past: telegraphed

Past Participle: telegraphed


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear what happened at the meeting yesterday?
Sloth B
No, what happened?
Sloth A
Well, it seems like the boss telegraphed his plans to cut the budget without saying it directly.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Telegraph → It is formed from "tele-" (from Greek "tēle", meaning far or at a distance) and "graph" (from Greek "grapho", meaning to write). The word "telegraph" refers to a device that writes or transmits messages over long distances.

Memory Tip

Imagine sending a message 'far away' ('tele-') and 'writing' it down ('graph') — that's how a telegraph works.

Visually Confused Words
retelegraph
pretelegraph
pantelegraph
telligraph
untelegraphed
typotelegraph
pantelegraphy
autotelegraph
Is this page helpful?
Definitely! It must have been exciting to receive a telegraph.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
telegram
cable
message
Antonyms
silence
disconnection
inaction
That's not good! I wish he would just be straightforward about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
signal
convey
indicate
Antonyms
conceal
suppress
withhold