enlightening — giving you new information about something in a way that increases your understanding of it
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: giving you new information about something in a way that increases your understanding of it
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɪnˈlaɪtənɪŋ/
Example Sentences
- My boss's feedback was surprisingly enlightening - I finally understood why my coffee breaks were lasting 3 hours.
- The travel experience was enlightening and broadened my perspective.
- Reading customer reviews before buying was very enlightening - apparently the 'luxury' hotel had rats as roommates.
enlightening
ADJECTIVE[/ɪnˈlaɪtənɪŋ/]
giving you new information about something in a way that increases your understanding of it
an enthusiastic museum guide points to a massive dinosaur skeleton while explaining fascinating details to a group of visitors. She gestures animatedly at different bones while sharing amazing facts about how these creatures lived millions of years ago. The visitors' faces transform from casual interest to wide-eyed wonder as they learn surprising new information. Children and adults alike lean forward with growing excitement, their expressions showing genuine amazement at each revelation. A young boy's mouth drops open as he discovers how enormous these ancient creatures really were. people gaining new information that increases their understanding of the prehistoric world
Lightning strikes, first frightening, then enlightening!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word emerged in the 18th century during the Enlightenment period. It developed from the literal sense of 'guiding from darkness into light' to the metaphorical meaning of 'illuminating ignorance with knowledge,' reflecting the era's emphasis on reason and intellectual progress.
Breakdown
en- (into, toward) + light (illumination, knowledge) + -en (verb-forming suffix) + -ing (present participle/adjectival suffix forming 'tending to enlighten').
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My boss's feedback was surprisingly enlightening - I finally understood why my coffee breaks were lasting 3 hours.”
“The travel experience was enlightening and broadened my perspective.”
“Reading customer reviews before buying was very enlightening - apparently the 'luxury' hotel had rats as roommates.”
“The workshop provided enlightening insights into modern marketing strategies.”
📚Related Words
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