Pure: meaning, definitions and examples

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pure

 

[ pjʊər ]

Adjective / Noun
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Adjective

clean

not mixed or adulterated with any other substance or material.

Synonyms

clean, unadulterated, unmixed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pure

Use 'pure' when referring to something that is unmixed with any other substance and is often used metaphorically to describe things that are morally or emotionally untainted.

  • The pure water from the mountain spring tastes refreshing.
  • Her pure intentions were evident in all her actions.
clean

Use 'clean' when referring to something that is free from dirt, marks, or stains. It can also describe something that is free from errors or clear and easy to understand.

  • Make sure to keep the kitchen clean at all times.
  • The software offers a clean user interface.
unmixed

Use 'unmixed' when describing something that has not been combined with any other substance or element. It's often used in more technical or specific contexts.

  • The lab requires samples to be in their unmixed form.
unadulterated

Use 'unadulterated' for emphasis when describing something that has not been mixed with inferior substances or has not been diluted. It can carry a slightly more formal tone.

  • The product is made with unadulterated ingredients.
  • Her speech was filled with unadulterated passion.

Examples of usage

  • pure alcohol
  • pure gold
Context #2 | Adjective

innocent

without any discordant quality; clear and sweet.

Synonyms

genuine, innocent, wholesome.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pure

This word is often used to describe something that is completely clean, without any flaws or unwanted elements. It is used in a variety of contexts, including nature, emotions, and intentions.

  • The air in the mountains is so pure.
  • Her love for him was pure.
innocent

This word is used to describe someone who is free from guilt or wrongdoing, often used in legal contexts or to describe children and those who are naive. It can be used literally or metaphorically.

  • The jury found her innocent of the charges.
  • Children have an innocent curiosity about the world.
wholesome

This word is used to describe something that is good for the body or mind, often associated with health and morality. It is frequently used to describe food, activities, or content that promotes well-being.

  • They served a wholesome meal full of vegetables and grains.
  • It was a wholesome family movie night.
genuine

This word is usually used to describe something that is real or true, not fake or pretentious. It is often used to describe emotions, objects, or intentions.

  • He gave a genuine smile when he saw his old friend.
  • This is a genuine leather jacket.

Examples of usage

  • her voice was pure and true
Context #3 | Noun

philosophy

something that is unmixed or unadulterated.

Synonyms

genuine, unadulterated, unmixed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pure

Used to describe something that is free from any contamination, impurities, or additives. It often implies innocence or high quality.

  • She prefers pure water from the mountain springs
  • His intentions were pure
unmixed

Describes something that has not been combined with other substances, maintaining its original state. Often used in scientific or technical contexts.

  • The chemicals must remain unmixed until the experiment begins
  • The ingredients were kept unmixed to preserve their purity
unadulterated

Typically used to emphasize that something has not been altered or diluted with any other substance. It has a slightly formal tone.

  • The chef used unadulterated olive oil in the recipe
  • We experienced unadulterated joy at the news
genuine

Refers to something that is authentic and not fake or counterfeit. It is also used to describe sincere emotions or actions.

  • This is a genuine Picasso painting
  • Her smile was genuine, filled with warmth

Examples of usage

  • the pure of heart

Translations

Translations of the word "pure" in other languages:

🇵🇹 puro

🇮🇳 शुद्ध

🇩🇪 rein

🇮🇩 murni

🇺🇦 чистий

🇵🇱 czysty

🇯🇵 純粋な (じゅんすいな)

🇫🇷 pur

🇪🇸 puro

🇹🇷 saf

🇰🇷 순수한 (순수한)

🇸🇦 نقي

🇨🇿 čistý

🇸🇰 čistý

🇨🇳 纯净的 (chún jìng de)

🇸🇮 čist

🇮🇸 hreinn

🇰🇿 таза

🇬🇪 სუფთა

🇦🇿 saf

🇲🇽 puro

Etymology

The word 'pure' originated from the Latin word 'purus', which means clean, clear, or unmixed. It has been used in English since the late 14th century. The concept of purity is often associated with cleanliness, innocence, and authenticity. In various contexts, 'pure' signifies something that is uncontaminated, unalloyed, or genuine.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,567, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.