To effectively remember the word "extol," which means to praise enthusiastically, two primary mnemonics can be highly effective:
- Extra Talk Mnemonic: Break down "extol" into "ex" for extra and "tal" for talk. Visualize someone who talks extra about another person, offering abundant praise.
- Toll Gate Praise Mnemonic: Connect "extol" with "Ex exta, tol = toll fee." Imagine a situation where you praise a lot the toll gate watchman, perhaps with an "extra" effort, hoping to receive special consideration, thus emphasizing the act of excessive praise.
These memory aids help solidify the meaning of "extol" by creating memorable associations.
Understanding "Extol"
The verb "extol" signifies praising someone or something very highly. It implies a sense of admiration and commendation that goes beyond simple appreciation.
- Definition: To praise, laud, glorify, or applaud with great enthusiasm and admiration.
- Part of Speech: Verb
- Synonyms: Praise, laud, eulogize, acclaim, commend, glorify.
- Antonyms: Censure, criticize, deprecate, denounce.
For a deeper understanding of the word, you can refer to its definition on reputable platforms like Merriam-Webster.
Detailed Mnemonics for Enhanced Recall
Let's explore each mnemonic in more detail to help you permanently ingrain "extol" into your vocabulary.
1. The "Extra Talk" Mnemonic
This mnemonic is straightforward and directly relates to the act of praising:
- Breakdown:
- EX = EXtra
- TOL (sounds like part of "talk") = TALk
- Concept: Think of someone who talks extra about someone else. When you talk excessively about a person's good qualities, accomplishments, or virtues, you are, by definition, extolling them.
- Memory Hook: Picture a proud parent extolling their child's achievements to anyone who will listen, or a fan extolling their favorite athlete's performance in great detail.
2. The "Toll Gate Praise" Mnemonic
This creative mnemonic uses a more imaginative scenario to link the sound of the word to its meaning:
- Breakdown:
- Ex exta (from the start of "extol")
- tol = toll fee
- Concept: Imagine you are at a toll gate and you're in a hurry or trying to get a discount. You might praise a lot the toll gate watchman, going above and beyond with your compliments and flattery, perhaps even with an "extra penny" (as mentioned in the original aid) or just extra effort in your praise, to curry favor. This act of enthusiastic, perhaps even excessive, praise connects directly to the meaning of "extol."
- Memory Hook: Envision yourself showering compliments on the attendant, extolling their efficiency or kindness, just to speed things up or save a little money. The exaggerated praise is the key.
Practical Application: Using "Extol" in Sentences
To further solidify your understanding, here are some examples of "extol" in context:
- Example 1: "The critics extolled the young artist's innovative use of color and unique brushwork."
- Example 2: "Many cultures extol the virtues of honesty and hard work as essential for a fulfilling life."
- Example 3: "During the ceremony, the principal extolled the graduating class for their perseverance through challenging times."
- Example 4: "It's easy to extol the benefits of regular exercise when you experience the positive changes in your energy levels and mood."
Mnemonic Comparison Table
| Mnemonic | Breakdown | Imagery/Story | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Extra Talk | EX = Extra, TAL = Talk | Someone talking extra about another person's good points. | Direct connection to verbal praise. |
| Toll Gate Praise | Ex exta, tol = Toll Fee | Praising a lot the toll gate watchman for special favor. | Creative scenario for enthusiastic praise. |
Both mnemonics offer distinct pathways to remember "extol," catering to different learning styles. Choose the one that resonates most with you, or even combine elements of both for a stronger memory link.
