paragraph
Definitions
A distinct section of writing, made up of one or more sentences on a single topic, usually starting on a new line.
段落，围绕一个主题、由一句或多句构成的文字单元，通常另起一行。
To divide a piece of writing into paragraphs.
把文章分段。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedpara- (beside) + graph (mark/write) = 'a mark written beside.' In old manuscripts a small sign was scribbled in the margin to flag where a new section began. The word slid from that marginal mark to the block of text it announced.
Root graph still carries 34 more wordsWhy It Means This
Of all the graph words, paragraph hides its root best. It isn't about a field or an instrument — it goes back to the literal Greek act of scratching a mark (graph) beside (para-) the text. The mark was the original 'paragraph'; the chunk of writing only later borrowed the name.
Common Collocations
- 1.opening paragraph开头段
- 2.short paragraph短段落
- 3.concluding paragraph结尾段
- 4.new paragraph新的一段
Example Sentences
- 1.
Each paragraph should focus on one main idea.
- 2.
Read the opening paragraph carefully before you answer.
- 3.
He paragraphed the essay so it was easier to follow.