embody

/ɪmˈbɒdi/ (bre, ipa) · /ɪmˈbɑːdi/ (ame, ipa) · /im-ˈbä-dē/ (ame, mw)

embody — verb

  • embodypresent simple I / you / we / they
  • embodieshe / she / it
  • embodiedpast simple
  • embodying-ing form

1. to be a clear, visible example of a particular quality, idea, or feeling — as if

1.動詞及物B2
釋義

to be a clear, visible example of a particular quality, idea, or feeling — as if that quality has taken physical form through a person's actions, a building's design, or an organization's values.

例句

Amani's quiet determination embodies the kind of strength that inspires those around her.

The new community garden embodies the neighbourhood's commitment to working together.

collocation: embody + commitment / spirit

同義詞
  • personify

    More specific: suggests a person so completely displays a quality that they seem to be its human form

  • epitomize

    Adds the idea of being the perfect or most typical example of a type or category

  • exemplify

    More practical: focuses on serving as a concrete illustration, especially through actions or specific cases

反義詞
  • contradict

    to be opposite or inconsistent with a quality or idea that one claims to have

文法句型

embody + noun phrase (quality, idea, or value)

用法筆記

Frequently used in formal, descriptive, or literary writing. The subject is typically a person, action, creation (building, artwork, organization), or symbol that serves as a clear example of an abstract quality. The object is almost always an abstract noun such as spirit, value, ideal, quality, or principle.

常見錯誤

❌Her speech embeds the values of equality.
✅Her speech embodies the values of equality.
💡'Embed' means to fix something firmly into a surrounding material, while 'embody' means to be a living or visible example of something.

2. to contain or include something as a necessary part of a larger system, plan, po

2.動詞及物C1
釋義

to contain or include something as a necessary part of a larger system, plan, policy, or design, where the parts work together as an integrated whole.

例句

The new housing policy embodies a range of measures to support first-time buyers.

collocation: embody + measures / policies / provisions

Devika's business plan embodies careful market research and a realistic budget.

同義詞
  • incorporate

    More common in business and technical contexts; suggests active blending into an existing whole

  • contain

    Simpler and less formal, without the nuance of integrated structure

  • include

    Broader and more neutral in register, without implying meaningful integration

反義詞
  • exclude

    to leave out or omit from a plan, system, or design

文法句型

embody + noun phrase (components, measures, or features)

用法筆記

Distinguish from sense 1: this sense focuses on the parts that make up a system or plan, not on the symbolic representation of an idea. The object is typically a collection of concrete components (measures, features, elements, feedback) rather than a single abstract quality. Common in business, policy, and academic writing.

常見錯誤

❌The bag embodies a water bottle and a towel.
✅The bag contains a water bottle and a towel.
💡'Embody' is used for parts that form an integrated structural whole, not for items simply placed inside a container.