B2adjective1K

Pure

UK /["/pjʊə(r)/","/ˈpjʊərə(r)/","/ˈpjʊərɪst/"]/US /["/pjʊr/","/ˈpjʊrər/","/ˈpjʊrɪst/"]/

Definition

not mixed with anything else; with nothing added

In simple words: Something that is clean or not mixed with anything else.

Examples

  • She prefers to drink pure water without any additives.
  • The artist's pure intention was to create a piece that reflects truth.
  • The diamond was of pure quality, sparkling brilliantly under the light.
  • He felt pure joy when he heard the good news.
  • They aimed to achieve pure beauty in their design without unnecessary details.

Usage notes

Used to describe something that is uncontaminated or without addition. In formal contexts, often refers to substances or qualities; in informal contexts, can refer to intentions or feelings.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of a 'pure' mountain spring – clear and clean water.

Collocations

  • pure water
  • pure heart
  • pure substance
  • pure joy
  • pure gold

Synonyms

  • clear
  • clean
  • unblemished
  • untouched
  • wholesome

Antonyms

  • impure
  • contaminated
  • mixed

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'purer' – 'pure' is the base form, not comparative.
  • Used incorrectly in terms of emotions, e.g., saying 'pure love' is often acceptable, but context matters.