The word ‘across’ is a versatile and commonly used term in the English language, playing a crucial role in both spoken and written communication. Whether describing movement, position, or connection, understanding the meaning of ‘across’ enhances clarity in conversations and texts. This article explores the definition, synonyms, examples, and history of ‘across’ to provide a comprehensive guide for learners and curious minds.
Definition (Meaning)
The term ‘across’ primarily functions as a preposition or adverb, indicating movement from one side to another or a position spanning over something. It often conveys the idea of traversing or covering a space, as in walking across a bridge or ideas spreading across cultures.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for ‘across’ include ‘over,’ ‘through,’ and ‘beyond,’ depending on the context. However, the exact replacement depends on the sentence structure and intended meaning, as ‘across’ often carries a unique sense of spanning or crossing.
Examples of across in a Sentence
- She walked across the street to meet her friend at the café.
- The news spread across the country within hours of the announcement.
- They built a bridge across the river to connect the two villages.
Word History
The word ‘across’ originated in Middle English as ‘a-croiz,’ derived from the Old French ‘a croix,’ meaning ‘in the form of a cross,’ which reflects an early sense of crossing or intersecting. It evolved over time to its current form by the 14th century, influenced by the combination of the prefix ‘a-‘ and ‘cross.’ This etymology highlights how the concept of crossing remains central to the meaning of ‘across’ even today.