Brother
UK /["/ˈbrʌðə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈbrʌðər/"]/
Definition
a boy or man who has the same parents as another person
In simple words: A male sibling.
Examples
- My brother is the best friend I have.
- She has a brother who plays soccer.
- My brother loves to read books.
- He treats his brother with a lot of respect.
- They are brothers and always play together.
Usage notes
Used in general contexts to refer to male siblings. Not typically used in formal writing. In some cultures, it can also refer to close male friends.
Grammar pattern
brother + of + person
Memory hint
Think of 'bro' as a short way to remember 'brother'!
Collocations
- big
- elder
- older
- blood brothers
- brother and sister
- like brothers
Synonyms
- sibling
- male sibling
- bro
Antonyms
- sister
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'brothers' as plural when referencing one sibling.
- Misusing 'brother' for female siblings.