Express: meaning, definitions and examples

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express

 

[ ɪkˈsprɛs ]

Verb / Noun
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Verb

feelings

To convey (a thought or feeling) in words or by gestures and conduct.

Synonyms

articulate, communicate, convey.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
express

Use to describe sharing feelings, thoughts, or emotions clearly through words, art, or gestures.

  • She expressed her gratitude with a heartfelt letter.
  • You can express your ideas through painting.
communicate

Ideal for general use when describing the act of sharing information, ideas, or messages.

  • We need to communicate better to avoid misunderstandings.
  • He used sign language to communicate with the deaf community.
convey

Suitable for formal use, often when referring to the transfer of abstract concepts or emotions.

  • The novel successfully conveys the struggles of its characters.
  • Photographs can convey emotions without words.
articulate

Best in formal contexts where clarity and precise communication is valued, often in speeches or writing.

  • He articulated his vision for the future during the presentation.
  • She was able to articulate her concerns clearly during the meeting.

Examples of usage

  • He expressed his gratitude with a big smile.
  • She expressed her disappointment by shaking her head.
  • They expressed their love through handwritten letters.
Context #2 | Noun

transportation

A public transportation service that is fast, frequent, and reliable.

Synonyms

prompt, quick, rapid.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
express

Typically used to describe clear and direct communication, or fast and direct services such as transportation or shipping.

  • She used an express delivery service to send the package overnight.
  • He expressed his thoughts clearly during the meeting.
rapid

Describes something happening very fast, often in a scientific, technical, or formal context. It can pertain to speed of movement, change, or progress.

  • The rapid growth of technology has changed everyone's lives.
  • They needed a rapid solution to the problem.
quick

Used to describe something done in a short amount of time. It can refer to actions, responses, or characteristics. Informally, it is common in everyday speech.

  • He took a quick shower before heading out.
  • She gave a quick answer to the question.
prompt

Often used to describe action taken immediately without delay. It implies a sense of urgency and efficiency. Can also be used to describe punctuality or speed in response.

  • The doctor gave a prompt response to the emergency.
  • She was prompt in submitting her report.

Examples of usage

  • I prefer taking the express bus to work.
  • The express train is always on time.
  • We caught the express shuttle to the airport.

Translations

Translations of the word "express" in other languages:

🇵🇹 expressar

🇮🇳 व्यक्त करना

🇩🇪 ausdrücken

🇮🇩 menyatakan

🇺🇦 виражати

🇵🇱 wyrażać

🇯🇵 表現する (hyōgen suru)

🇫🇷 exprimer

🇪🇸 expresar

🇹🇷 ifade etmek

🇰🇷 표현하다 (pyo-hyeonhada)

🇸🇦 يعبر عن (yu'abbir 'an)

🇨🇿 vyjádřit

🇸🇰 vyjadriť

🇨🇳 表达 (biǎodá)

🇸🇮 izraziti

🇮🇸 tjá

🇰🇿 білдіру

🇬🇪 გამოხატვა (gamokhatva)

🇦🇿 ifadə etmək

🇲🇽 expresar

Etymology

The word 'express' originated from the Latin word 'expressus', past participle of 'exprimere', which means 'to press out'. The term was first used in the 14th century to describe the action of pressing out something. Over time, 'express' evolved to also mean conveying thoughts or feelings clearly and distinctly. In the 17th century, 'express' was used to describe rapid transportation services, emphasizing speed and efficiency.

See also: depress, impress, oppress, press, pressing, pressingly, pressings, pressure, pressuring, repress, repressed.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,509, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.