horizon
/həˈraɪ.zən/ IELTSAcademic
noun
- 1.
The line where the earth or sea seems to meet the sky. It is not a real line, but it looks like one from where you stand.
- The sun was low on the horizon.
- A ship appeared on the horizon.
- We watched the horizon after sunset.
- 2.
The limit of what is known, possible, or expected. People often use it for future plans, ideas, or opportunities.
- This job will widen your horizons.
- New technology may change our horizons.
- She hopes to expand her horizons.
Adinary Nuance
Horizon is more visual and poetic than border or edge. Use it for the sky line, or for future possibilities and limits. It is less concrete than boundary, and softer than limit. In writing, it often sounds more formal and thoughtful than everyday words like view.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- chân trời
- Spanish
- horizonte
- Chinese
- 地平线
- Japanese
- 地平線
- Korean
- 수평선
Etymology
The word comes from Late Latin horizon, from Greek horizōn, meaning 'marking a boundary.' It entered English in the late Middle Ages.
Common phrases
on the horizonbroaden your horizonsnew horizonsjust over the horizon
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between horizon and skyline?
- Horizon is the line where earth and sky seem to meet. Skyline is the outline of buildings against the sky.
- Can I use horizon for future plans?
- Yes. It often means future possibilities, especially in phrases like broaden your horizons.
- Is horizon formal or informal?
- It is neutral, but it often sounds a little literary or thoughtful.
- How do I use horizon in a sentence?
- You can say, 'New opportunities are on the horizon.'