express
Definitions
To convey or show a feeling, opinion, or idea in words or by other means
表达，表露（感受、意见、想法）
To press or squeeze something out (e.g. juice, milk)
挤出，榨出（汁液、乳汁等）
Operating at high speed or going directly to a destination with few stops
快速的；直达的
Stated clearly and definitely; for a specific purpose
明确的；专门的
A fast train, bus, or delivery service
快车；快递服务
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedex- (out) + press (squeeze) = 'press out.' The core image is squeezing something out so it becomes visible — juice out of fruit, or a feeling out of yourself into words. The 'fast/direct' sense came separately through 'expressly,' meaning sent out for one specific purpose without stopping.
Root press still carries 89 more wordsWhy It Means This
How does one word mean both 'show your feelings' and 'fast train'? Both go back to pressing something out. To express an emotion is to push it out from inside until others can see it. 'Express delivery' comes from a parcel sent out 'expressly' — directly, for one named purpose, without detours — which over time simply meant 'fast and direct.'
Common Collocations
- 1.express an opinion表达意见
- 2.express gratitude表示感谢
- 3.express concern表达担忧
- 4.express train特快列车
- 5.express delivery快递
Example Sentences
- 1.
She found it hard to express how grateful she really was.
- 2.
He expressed strong concern about the new policy.
- 3.
Gently express the juice from the lemon into the bowl.
- 4.
We took the express train to avoid the local stops.
- 5.
The package was sent by express delivery overnight.
Easily Confused
express vs convey — both mean 'get a meaning across.' express centers on the speaker releasing what's inside (express your feelings); convey centers on the message reaching the other side (the photo conveys sadness). You express to someone; a thing conveys to an audience.