Voyage Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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voyage

[ˈvɔɪɪdʒ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

adventure

A long journey involving travel by sea or in space.

Synonyms

expedition, journey, trip.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
voyage

Typically used to describe a long journey by sea or into space. It implies adventure and distance.

  • The voyage across the Atlantic took several weeks
  • The astronauts prepared for their voyage to Mars
journey

A more general term that refers to traveling from one place to another, usually over a significant distance. It can be used metaphorically to describe personal or emotional experiences.

  • The train journey from New York to Chicago was quite scenic
  • Her journey to self-discovery was challenging but rewarding
trip

Usually refers to a short or temporary journey. It often suggests leisure or business travel and is less formal than 'journey' or 'expedition'.

  • They went on a weekend trip to the mountains
  • She scheduled a business trip to California next month
expedition

Refers to a journey undertaken for a specific purpose, often scientific, exploration, or research. It usually involves a group of people and preparation.

  • The scientists embarked on an expedition to study the Arctic ice
  • They planned an expedition to explore the Amazon rainforest

Examples of usage

  • He embarked on a voyage around the world.
  • The astronauts prepared for their voyage to Mars.
Context #2 | Noun

exploration

A journey of exploration, especially by sea.

Synonyms

adventure, exploration, quest.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
voyage

This word is often used when referring to a long journey, especially by sea or in space. It implies a significant duration and distance.

  • The explorers went on a voyage across the Atlantic Ocean
  • The spacecraft's voyage to Mars took several months
exploration

Use this word when referring to traveling through an area to learn about it, often in a scientific or investigative context. It implies a thorough, systematic approach.

  • Their exploration of the Arctic revealed new information about the region's climate
  • The scientist is engaged in the exploration of ancient ruins
quest

This word often refers to a long and difficult search for something, typically implying a noble or significant goal. It is commonly used in literature and fantasy contexts.

  • The hero embarked on a quest to find the sacred artifact
  • Their quest for knowledge led them to many different countries
adventure

This word is commonly used when talking about an exciting or risky experience. It implies a sense of thrill and unpredictability.

  • They set out on an adventure through the Amazon rainforest
  • He loved the adventures he had while backpacking across Europe

Examples of usage

  • The voyage of Christopher Columbus led to the discovery of the Americas.
  • The scientific voyage to the deep ocean uncovered new species.
Context #3 | Verb

travel

To take a long journey, especially by sea or in space.

Synonyms

journey, sail, travel.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
voyage

Also used to describe an extensive trip, often by ship but can sometimes refer metaphorically to an important or challenging experience.

  • Magellan's voyage around the world was groundbreaking.
  • The novel depicts a voyage of personal growth.
travel

Broad term that covers any form of moving from one place to another; used in a variety of contexts including leisure, business, or daily commutes.

  • He loves to travel and experience new cultures.
  • Due to his job, he has to travel frequently.
journey

General term for travel from one place to another, especially over long distances; can be physical or metaphorical.

  • The journey through the mountains took all day.
  • Her journey to self-discovery was profound and transformative.
sail

Specifically related to traveling by boat or ship; often implies a leisurely or recreational trip on water.

  • They decided to sail around the Greek islands during their vacation.
  • It was a calm day, perfect to sail along the coast.

Examples of usage

  • They voyaged across the Atlantic Ocean.
  • The spacecraft voyaged to the outer reaches of the solar system.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Exploration

  • Famous voyages include Christopher Columbus' 1492 journey, which led to the discovery of the Americas.
  • Ferdinand Magellan is credited with the first circumnavigation of the Earth, a monumental voyage for navigation and exploration.
  • Underwater exploration, like Jacques Cousteau's voyages, expanded our understanding of ocean life.

Literature

  • Herman Melville's 'Moby-Dick' narrates an epic voyage on the Pequod, diving deep into themes of obsession and nature.
  • Jules Verne's 'Around the World in Eighty Days' follows Phileas Fogg on an adventurous voyage filled with challenges.
  • The concept of the voyage often symbolizes personal growth and discovery in literary narratives.

Science

  • In astronomy, Voyager 1 and 2 spacecraft have embarked on voyages beyond our solar system, gathering vital data about distant planets.
  • The term 'space voyage' has entered popular culture, inspired by missions to explore planets and moons, such as Mars.
  • Biological voyages can refer to animal migrations, where species travel vast distances for breeding and food.

Pop Culture

  • The 'Star Trek' franchise often features iconic voyages through space, exploring the unknown and encountering new civilizations.
  • The animated film 'Moana' highlights a young girl’s voyage across the ocean, celebrating navigation and heritage.
  • Video games, like 'The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker', revolve around sea voyages, combining adventure and puzzle-solving.

Origin of 'voyage'

Main points about word origin

  • Originates from the Old French word 'voiage', which means 'journey', 'travelling', or 'sailing'.
  • The Latin root 'viaticum' refers to provisions for a journey, highlighting the importance of preparation.
  • The term has evolved over centuries, often associated with exploration and adventure.

The word 'voyage' originated from the Old French word 'veiage' which means 'a journey or expedition'. It has been used in the English language since the 13th century. The concept of voyaging has been integral to human history, from early seafaring explorations to modern space missions. Voyages have been undertaken for trade, exploration, scientific discovery, and personal adventure, shaping the course of civilizations and expanding our understanding of the world and beyond.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,827, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.