A2noun1K

Essay

UK /["/ˈeseɪ/"]/US /["/ˈeseɪ/"]/

Definition

a short piece of writing by a student as part of a course of study

In simple words: A written piece that explains or discusses a topic.

Examples

I need to write a detailed essay for my English class.
The teacher will grade each essay based on clarity and organization.
Please submit your essay by the end of the week.
He wrote an essay discussing the impact of technology on society.
Her essay on climate change was well-researched and insightful.
An essay can also be a personal reflection on a particular topic.
In university, students are often required to submit multiple essays each term.

Usage notes

Used in academic contexts like schools and colleges. Avoid using in casual conversations unless discussing school assignments.

Grammar pattern

write + essay

Memory hint

Think of 'essay' as 'say' in writing - you say your ideas.

Collocations

anthology
collection
selection
do
write
finish
be entitled something
be titled something
address something
question
title
topic
in an/the essay
essay about
essay on
anthology
collection
selection
do
write
finish
be entitled something
be titled something
address something
question
title
topic
in an/the essay
essay about
essay on

Synonyms

paper
article
composition
treatise
dissertation

Antonyms

plagiarism
copy
falsification

Common mistakes

Confused with 'composition' or 'paper' which can have different contexts.
Using 'essay' as a verb, when it's only a noun.
Omitting the type of essay being written, which may be needed for clarity.