A2verb1K

UK/["/ɪnˈvent/","/ɪnˈvents/","/ɪnˈventɪd/","/ɪnˈventɪŋ/"]/US/["/ɪnˈvent/","/ɪnˈvents/","/ɪnˈventɪd/","/ɪnˈventɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Invent

In simple words: To create something new or make something that didn't exist before.

Invent in a sentence

  • Who invented the steam engine?
  • I wish mobile phones had never been invented!
  • The term ‘sociology’ was invented by Auguste Comte.
  • He practically invented the modern stand-up comedy act.
  • Louis Braille invented an alphabet to help blind people.
  • What excuse did he invent this time?
  • Many children invent an imaginary friend.
  • He considered inventing some pretext for calling her.
  • I did not have to invent any tales about my past.

How to use Invent

Commonly used in both spoken and written English. It's appropriate in academic, professional, and casual contexts when discussing creativity or innovation. Avoid in situations where you're discussing improvements on existing things rather than original creations.

Grammar pattern

invent + object

Memory hint

Think of 'invent' as 'in-venting' something fresh and new, like a mad scientist in a lab!

Related words

Collocations with Invent

  • practically
  • virtually
  • single-handedly
  • newly invented

Synonyms for Invent

Opposites of Invent

Common mistakes with Invent

  • Confusing with 'discover' which means finding something that already exists.
  • Using 'invent' in passive voice incorrectly, e.g. 'was invented by' without mentioning the inventor.
  • Mistaking it for 'create' in all contexts; 'invent' often implies a unique or original idea.

Compare Invent with Create, Design, Develop, Formulate

Invent appears in

Invent in other languages

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Frequently asked questions about Invent

What does Invent mean?

To create something new or make something that didn't exist before.

What is the definition of Invent?

to produce or design something that has not existed before

How do you use Invent in a sentence?

Who invented the steam engine?

Can you give another example of Invent?

I wish mobile phones had never been invented!

What are synonyms for Invent?

Common alternatives include create, design, develop, formulate, innovate.

What is the opposite of Invent?

Opposite meanings include destroy, eliminate, neglect.

What words go with Invent?

It commonly pairs with practically, virtually, single-handedly, newly invented.

What are common mistakes when using Invent?

Confusing with 'discover' which means finding something that already exists. Using 'invent' in passive voice incorrectly, e.g. 'was invented by' without mentioning the inventor. Mistaking it for 'create' in all contexts; 'invent' often implies a unique or original idea.

How do you pronounce Invent?

US: /["/ɪnˈvent/","/ɪnˈvents/","/ɪnˈventɪd/","/ɪnˈventɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/ɪnˈvent/","/ɪnˈvents/","/ɪnˈventɪd/","/ɪnˈventɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Invent?

Commonly used in both spoken and written English. It's appropriate in academic, professional, and casual contexts when discussing creativity or innovation. Avoid in situations where you're discussing improvements on existing things rather than original creations.

What CEFR level is Invent?

"Invent" is at A2 level on the CEFR scale.