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centuries

B1 Noun (plural) #22 가장 일반적인 6분 분량

centuries

The plural form of century, referring to multiple periods of one hundred years each. It is commonly used to describe long durations of time or to categorize historical eras.

상위 22

The word 'centuries' is the plural of 'century.' A century is 100 years. So, 'centuries' means many groups of 100 years. For example, 200 years is two centuries. 300 years is three centuries. We use this word to talk about a very long time ago. In A1, you might hear this when talking about history or old buildings. For example, 'This castle is very old. It has been here for centuries.' This means the castle was built hundreds of years ago. It is a simple way to say 'a very, very long time.' You don't need to know the exact number of years, just that it is more than 100 or 200. It is a common word in stories about kings, queens, and ancient times. Remember, one century is 100 years, and centuries is the plural form. You can also use it to exaggerate. If you are waiting for a friend and they are late, you might say, 'I have been waiting for centuries!' This is a joke because you haven't really been waiting for hundreds of years, but it feels like a long time. It's a useful word to know when you start learning about the past and how the world has changed. Just think of it as 'hundreds of years.'

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At the A2 level, you can start using 'centuries' to describe historical events and the age of things more accurately. A century is a unit of time equal to 100 years. When we use the plural 'centuries,' we are referring to more than one hundred-year period. You will often see this word in history books or when visiting old cities. For example, 'The city of Rome has existed for many centuries.' This tells us that Rome is very old and has a long history. You can also use 'centuries' with numbers, like 'two centuries' or 'five centuries.' A common phrase is 'for centuries,' which means something has been happening or existing for a long time. For instance, 'People have lived in this valley for centuries.' Another way to use it is with the word 'old,' as in 'centuries-old.' This is an adjective that describes something very old, like 'a centuries-old tradition.' This level of English involves understanding that 'centuries' is a way to group time into large blocks. It helps you talk about the past without needing to know every specific year. It is also used in a figurative way to mean 'a long time,' similar to how you might use 'ages.' For example, 'It took centuries to finish the project,' meaning it took much longer than expected. Understanding 'centuries' helps you build a better sense of time in English.

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At the B1 level, 'centuries' becomes a key word for discussing history, culture, and long-term changes. You should be comfortable using it in various sentence structures. For example, you might use the preposition 'over' to describe a process: 'The English language has evolved over the centuries.' This implies a gradual change that happened throughout several hundred-year periods. You will also encounter 'centuries' in more formal contexts, such as 'the 18th and 19th centuries.' It's important to remember that the 18th century refers to the 1700s, and the 19th century refers to the 1800s. This can be a bit confusing, but it's a standard way of naming time periods in English. You can also use 'centuries' to talk about the future, such as 'This problem will not be solved for centuries.' This expresses a very long-term perspective. In B1, you are expected to understand the difference between 'centuries,' 'decades' (10 years), and 'millennia' (1,000 years). Using the correct term shows that you have a good grasp of English time expressions. You might also use 'centuries' in more complex grammatical structures, like 'Having stood for centuries, the cathedral is now in need of repair.' Here, the word helps to establish the background or reason for the main action. Overall, 'centuries' is a versatile word that allows you to add depth and historical context to your conversations and writing.

At the B2 level, you should be able to use 'centuries' with more nuance and precision. You can use it to compare different historical periods or to discuss the long-term impact of certain events. For example, 'The technological advancements of the last two centuries have completely transformed human society.' This sentence uses 'centuries' to define a specific period of rapid change. You should also be familiar with common collocations and idioms involving 'centuries,' such as 'across the centuries' or 'through the centuries.' These phrases are often used in literature and formal speeches to evoke a sense of continuity and tradition. For instance, 'The search for knowledge has continued across the centuries, from ancient philosophers to modern scientists.' At this level, you can also use 'centuries' to discuss more abstract concepts, like 'the weight of centuries' or 'the wisdom of centuries.' This shows a more sophisticated understanding of how time can be used metaphorically. You should also be careful with punctuation, such as using a hyphen in 'centuries-old' when it acts as an adjective before a noun. In academic writing, 'centuries' is essential for longitudinal studies and historical analysis. You might write about 'the social shifts that occurred between the 15th and 17th centuries.' Being able to use 'centuries' accurately in these contexts demonstrates a high level of English proficiency and the ability to handle complex historical and temporal concepts.

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At the C1 level, your use of 'centuries' should be sophisticated and contextually appropriate. You can use it to weave complex narratives about history, science, and philosophy. For example, you might discuss 'the cumulative effect of centuries of colonial rule' or 'the gradual erosion of traditional values over the centuries.' In these cases, 'centuries' is not just a measure of time, but a way to describe a deep and pervasive influence. You should also be able to use the word in more academic or technical ways, such as in geology or astronomy, where 'centuries' might be the smallest unit of measurement for vast natural processes. For instance, 'The orbital variations of the planet can only be observed over many centuries.' At this level, you can also explore the more poetic and rhetorical uses of the word. You might use it to create a sense of grandeur or to emphasize the permanence of certain human endeavors. For example, 'The great works of art that have survived the centuries continue to inspire us today.' You should also be aware of the subtle differences between 'centuries' and other terms like 'epochs' or 'eras,' and choose the most precise word for your meaning. Your writing should show a clear understanding of how 'centuries' functions both as a literal time marker and as a powerful metaphor for endurance and change. This level of mastery allows you to use 'centuries' to add a layer of historical depth and intellectual rigor to your English communication.

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At the C2 level, 'centuries' is a word you can use with complete mastery, incorporating it into highly nuanced and sophisticated discourse. You might use it to discuss the 'longue durée' of history, a concept that emphasizes long-term social and economic structures over individual events. For example, 'To understand the current geopolitical landscape, one must look back over many centuries of shifting alliances and cultural exchanges.' You can also use 'centuries' in a more philosophical sense, exploring the nature of time itself and how humans perceive and organize it. For instance, 'The division of time into centuries is a human construct that helps us make sense of the otherwise chaotic flow of history.' At this level, your use of 'centuries' will often be part of complex, multi-clause sentences that require precise grammar and a wide range of vocabulary. You might write about 'the centuries-long struggle for human rights' or 'the way in which scientific discoveries from previous centuries continue to underpin our modern understanding of the universe.' You should also be able to use the word in a variety of registers, from the most formal academic prose to the most evocative literary descriptions. Whether you are analyzing historical trends, discussing scientific phenomena, or exploring the depths of human experience, 'centuries' is a word that you can use to provide a sense of scale, perspective, and profound historical continuity. Your ability to use it in such a wide range of contexts is a hallmark of near-native or native-level proficiency.

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연습하기 예시 노트와 팁

centuries 30초 만에

Centuries is the plural of century, meaning multiple 100-year periods.
It is used to describe long historical durations and ancient objects.
Commonly paired with prepositions like 'for,' 'over,' and 'across.'
Can be used figuratively to mean an extremely long time.

The word centuries is the plural form of the noun 'century,' which specifically denotes a period of one hundred years. When we use the plural form, we are referring to multiple blocks of these hundred-year periods, often to emphasize a vast, sweeping stretch of time that transcends individual human lifespans. In the English language, 'centuries' serves as a fundamental chronological marker, allowing speakers and writers to organize history, evolution, and long-term change into manageable, yet impressive, segments. It is a word that carries a certain weight and gravity, often used to evoke a sense of permanence, tradition, or the slow, inexorable march of progress. Whether discussing the architectural longevity of ancient cathedrals or the gradual shift in linguistic patterns, 'centuries' provides the necessary scale to describe phenomena that occur over hundreds or even thousands of years. It is not merely a mathematical count; it is a conceptual tool for understanding our place within the grand timeline of the universe and human achievement.

Historical Categorization: Historians use 'centuries' to define specific eras, such as the '18th and 19th centuries,' which helps in identifying cultural and political shifts that occurred over those two hundred years.

The Great Wall of China was built over many centuries, involving various dynasties and millions of workers.

Beyond literal timekeeping, 'centuries' is frequently used in a hyperbolic or figurative sense to describe something that feels like it is taking an incredibly long time. For instance, a student might complain that a particularly boring lecture 'lasted for centuries.' While mathematically inaccurate, this usage highlights the word's association with extreme duration. In academic writing, the word is indispensable for longitudinal studies, where researchers observe changes in climate, geology, or sociology over extended periods. The pluralization allows for the comparison of different hundred-year blocks, such as comparing the technological advancements of the 20th century with those of previous centuries. This comparative aspect is crucial for understanding the acceleration of human development. Furthermore, the word often appears in the context of heritage and preservation, where the goal is to ensure that artifacts and traditions survive for many more centuries to come.

Scientific Application: In geology and astronomy, 'centuries' is often the smallest unit of measurement used to describe the movement of tectonic plates or the orbital cycles of distant celestial bodies.

It took centuries for the forest to recover from the devastating volcanic eruption that occurred in the early Middle Ages.

In literature and storytelling, 'centuries' is used to create a sense of mythic time. Vampires in gothic novels are often described as having lived for centuries, which immediately establishes their ancient nature and their detachment from the fleeting lives of mortals. This usage taps into the human fascination with immortality and the desire to witness the world change over vast spans of time. Similarly, in science fiction, space travel to distant stars might be described as taking centuries, necessitating the use of cryosleep or generation ships. This emphasizes the immense distances of the cosmos. The word also appears in legal and property contexts, such as 'centuries-old' land deeds or rights that have been established for centuries through common law. This highlights the role of time in establishing legitimacy and authority within human societies.

Cultural Heritage: Many indigenous traditions have been passed down through the centuries via oral storytelling, preserving knowledge that predates written records.

These recipes have been perfected over centuries, representing the culinary soul of the entire Mediterranean region.

The oak tree in the center of the village has stood for centuries, witnessing the rise and fall of many local families.

The manuscript remained hidden in the monastery for centuries before being rediscovered by a curious young monk.

Ultimately, 'centuries' is a word that bridges the gap between the measurable and the monumental. It allows us to quantify time while simultaneously acknowledging its vastness. Whether used in a strict chronological sense or as a metaphor for endurance, it remains one of the most powerful tools in the English language for discussing the passage of time. It reminds us that while our individual lives are short, the collective history of humanity and the natural world spans many centuries, each contributing to the complex tapestry of the present day.

Using the word centuries correctly requires an understanding of its role as a plural count noun and its common prepositional pairings. Most frequently, you will see it preceded by 'for,' 'over,' 'through,' or 'across.' Each of these prepositions slightly alters the nuance of the duration being described. 'For centuries' emphasizes the total length of time something has existed or occurred. 'Over the centuries' suggests a process of change or evolution that happened gradually throughout that time. 'Through the centuries' often implies survival or persistence despite challenges, while 'across the centuries' suggests a connection or commonality that spans different eras. Mastering these nuances allows for more precise and evocative writing, especially in historical or descriptive contexts.

Duration and Persistence: When you want to emphasize how long a tradition has lasted, 'for centuries' is the most natural choice. Example: 'This festival has been celebrated for centuries.'

The secrets of the pyramid were lost to history for centuries until the modern archaeological era.

Another common way to use 'centuries' is as part of a compound adjective, such as 'centuries-old.' This is a very efficient way to describe the age of an object or a practice. Note the hyphenation when the phrase comes before the noun it modifies. For example, 'a centuries-old oak tree' or 'centuries-old traditions.' This structure is particularly common in journalism and travel writing, where it quickly establishes the historical significance of a location or artifact. It is also important to consider the use of ordinal numbers with 'centuries' when referring to specific periods. While 'centuries' is plural, we often refer to 'the 18th and 19th centuries.' In this case, the word remains plural because it refers to two distinct hundred-year periods. This is a common area of confusion for learners who might be tempted to use the singular 'century' in such instances.

Evolution and Change: Use 'over the centuries' to describe how something has transformed. Example: 'The English language has changed significantly over the centuries.'

The landscape has been shaped by the movement of glaciers over many centuries.

💡

When using 'centuries' in the plural, ensure your verb agrees. For example: 'Centuries have passed,' not 'Centuries has passed.'

In more formal or academic contexts, 'centuries' can be used to compare different epochs. You might write about 'the technological gap between the 15th and 21st centuries.' Here, the plural form is essential because you are referencing two separate, non-consecutive periods. Additionally, 'centuries' is often paired with quantifiers like 'many,' 'several,' 'few,' or 'countless.' 'Countless centuries' is a particularly poetic way to describe an immeasurable amount of time, often used in literature to describe the age of the earth or the stars. 'Several centuries' is more precise, suggesting a span of perhaps three hundred to seven hundred years. Choosing the right quantifier helps set the tone of your sentence, whether it is scientific precision or literary flair.

Connecting Eras: 'Across the centuries' is used to show how an idea or value remains relevant. Example: 'The search for truth has continued across the centuries.'

Philosophers have debated the nature of justice for centuries, yet no single definition satisfies everyone.

The castle walls, though weathered by centuries of storms, still stand as a testament to medieval engineering.

It will take centuries for the radioactive waste to decay to safe levels.

Finally, consider the emotional impact of the word. Saying 'it took centuries' sounds much more significant than saying 'it took hundreds of years,' even though they mean the same thing. 'Centuries' evokes the idea of history books, ancient ruins, and the long-term legacy of human actions. By using it thoughtfully, you can add depth and resonance to your descriptions of time and history. Whether you are writing a history essay, a fantasy novel, or just telling a story about your family's heritage, 'centuries' is a versatile and powerful word to have in your vocabulary.

The word centuries is a staple in various professional and academic fields, as well as in everyday media. One of the most common places to hear it is in historical documentaries and educational programming. Narrators often use the word to set the scene, describing how civilizations rose and fell over 'many centuries.' This helps viewers grasp the immense scale of the events being discussed. In museums, you will frequently see the word on placards and information boards, identifying the age of artifacts or the duration of artistic movements. For example, a display might explain how a particular pottery style evolved over 'three centuries.' This context reinforces the idea of 'centuries' as a standard unit for measuring human cultural development.

Media and Documentaries: In shows like 'National Geographic' or 'The History Channel,' 'centuries' is used to describe everything from the formation of canyons to the reign of empires.

'The Roman Empire dominated the Mediterranean for centuries, leaving a lasting legacy on Western law and culture.'

In the world of science, particularly in fields like geology, climatology, and astronomy, 'centuries' is used to describe natural cycles and long-term trends. A climatologist might discuss how global temperatures have fluctuated over the last 'ten centuries' to provide context for current climate change. A geologist might explain that the erosion of a mountain range occurs over 'countless centuries.' In these contexts, the word is used with scientific precision, even if the timeframes are vast. You will also hear 'centuries' in news reports concerning long-standing conflicts or social issues. A reporter might mention that a particular dispute has its roots in 'centuries of ethnic tension,' which helps the audience understand that the problem is not easily solved and has a deep historical background.

Scientific Discourse: Scientists use 'centuries' to talk about the half-life of certain elements or the time it takes for ecosystems to reach a climax state.

'We are seeing changes in the ocean's acidity that haven't occurred for centuries,' the researcher noted during the conference.

Literature and the arts are also rich with the use of 'centuries.' In fantasy and historical fiction, the word is used to create an atmosphere of antiquity. A character might discover a 'centuries-old' map or a prophecy that has been passed down for 'many centuries.' This adds a layer of mystery and importance to the plot. In poetry, 'centuries' can be used to contrast the brevity of human life with the endurance of nature or art. For example, a poet might write about how a statue remains unchanged while 'centuries of men' pass by. This thematic use of the word is common in classic literature, from Shakespeare to the Romantic poets, and continues to be a powerful tool for modern writers who want to explore themes of time and mortality.

Literary and Artistic Themes: In literature, 'centuries' often symbolizes the weight of the past and the inevitability of change over long periods.

'The vampire's eyes held the weariness of centuries, having seen empires rise and crumble into dust.'

'This tradition has been the heartbeat of our village for centuries, and we must not let it die.'

'The light from that star has been traveling through the void for centuries before finally reaching our eyes.'

Finally, you will hear 'centuries' in discussions about heritage and genealogy. People researching their family history might discover that their ancestors lived in the same region for 'several centuries.' This provides a sense of belonging and continuity. Similarly, in urban planning, architects might discuss how to integrate 'centuries-old' buildings into modern cityscapes. In all these instances, 'centuries' serves as a vital link between the past and the present, helping us to understand the long-term impact of human and natural processes. It is a word that is both common and profound, appearing in everything from casual jokes to the most serious scientific and historical discourse.

One of the most frequent mistakes English learners make with the word centuries is confusing it with other units of time, such as 'decades' (10 years) or 'millennia' (1,000 years). While this might seem like a simple numerical error, it can significantly change the meaning of a sentence. For example, saying a building is 'decades old' when it is actually 'centuries old' drastically understates its historical value. Conversely, describing a 200-year-old tradition as 'millennia old' is a massive exaggeration. It is important to remember the base unit: 1 century = 100 years. Therefore, 'centuries' always refers to multiples of 100. Another common error involves the naming of specific centuries. As mentioned before, the '19th century' refers to the years 1801-1900. Many people mistakenly think the 19th century refers to the 1900s. This 'off-by-one' error is a classic pitfall for both native and non-native speakers alike.

Numerical Confusion: Mistake: 'The pyramids are centuries old.' (They are actually millennia old). Correct: 'The pyramids are several millennia old.'

He said he'd been waiting for centuries, but it had only been twenty minutes.

Grammatically, a common mistake is the lack of subject-verb agreement. Since 'centuries' is plural, it must take a plural verb. For instance, 'Centuries has passed' is incorrect; it should be 'Centuries have passed.' This error often occurs when 'centuries' is part of a longer, more complex subject. Another issue is the misuse of the hyphen in compound adjectives. When 'centuries old' is used as a predicate adjective (after the noun), it is not hyphenated: 'The tree is centuries old.' However, when it is used as an attributive adjective (before the noun), it should be hyphenated: 'A centuries-old tree.' Forgetting this hyphen can make a sentence harder to read and is considered a punctuation error in formal writing. Additionally, learners sometimes struggle with the correct preposition. While 'for centuries' is the most common, using 'since centuries' is a common mistake influenced by other languages. In English, we say 'for centuries' to show duration.

Grammar and Punctuation: Mistake: 'I have lived here since centuries.' Correct: 'I have lived here for centuries' or 'My family has lived here for centuries.'

The centuries-old manuscript was fragile and required careful handling by the archivists.

Finally, there is the mistake of using 'centuries' when a more specific term would be better. If you know exactly how many years have passed, it is often better to say 'two hundred years' or 'three hundred years' rather than the more general 'centuries.' Using 'centuries' can sometimes sound a bit vague or overly dramatic if the context requires precision. Also, be careful with the phrase 'at the turn of the centuries.' This is rarely used; usually, people say 'at the turn of the century' (singular) to refer to the transition from one 100-year period to the next. Using the plural here would imply you are talking about multiple such transitions at once, which is a very specific and unusual context. By paying attention to these common pitfalls, you can use 'centuries' more accurately and effectively in both your spoken and written English.

Precision vs. Generalization: Mistake: 'The company has been around for centuries' (when it's only 150 years old). Correct: 'The company has been around for over a century and a half.'

Many centuries of tradition were wiped out in a single decade of rapid modernization.

The stars we see tonight have been shining for centuries, their light finally reaching us after a long journey.

It has been centuries since the last eruption of this particular volcano, but it is still considered active.

In summary, while 'centuries' is a common word, it has specific grammatical and contextual rules that must be followed. Avoiding confusion with other time units, ensuring proper verb agreement, using correct hyphenation in compound adjectives, and choosing the right preposition are all key to using the word like a native speaker. With practice, you will be able to use 'centuries' to add historical depth and descriptive power to your English communication, avoiding the common mistakes that can sometimes trip up learners.

While centuries is a very specific term for multiples of one hundred years, there are several other words that can be used depending on the context and the length of time you want to emphasize. The most direct alternative is 'hundreds of years.' This is a more literal and slightly less formal way of saying the same thing. It is often used when the focus is on the numerical count rather than the historical or monumental feel that 'centuries' provides. For example, 'The house has stood for hundreds of years' is a bit more grounded than 'The house has stood for centuries.' Another related term is 'ages.' This is much more vague and often used figuratively to mean 'a very long time.' If you say 'I haven't seen you in ages,' you aren't literally saying it's been hundreds of years, but rather that it feels like a significant amount of time has passed.

Centuries vs. Ages: 'Centuries' is a specific unit of time (100s of years), whereas 'ages' is a more general, often hyperbolic term for a long duration.

The civilization flourished for centuries before its sudden and mysterious decline.

For even longer periods of time, you might use 'millennia' (the plural of millennium), which refers to thousands of years. This is the next step up from 'centuries' and is used for ancient history, geological time, or evolutionary processes. For example, 'The evolution of the species took many millennia.' On the other hand, if you are talking about a period that is longer than a year but shorter than a century, you would use 'decades' (multiples of ten years). Understanding this hierarchy of time—decades, centuries, millennia—is crucial for accurate communication. There are also words like 'eras' or 'epochs,' which refer to significant periods of history defined by specific characteristics or events, rather than a fixed number of years. An 'era' could last for several centuries, or just a few decades, depending on how it is defined by historians.

Centuries vs. Millennia: Use 'centuries' for hundreds of years and 'millennia' for thousands of years. Example: 'The Roman Empire lasted for centuries, but the Egyptian civilization lasted for millennia.'

While some empires last for centuries, others fall within a single generation.

In academic or technical writing, you might encounter terms like 'secular' (when used in an astronomical or geological sense to mean 'occurring over a long period of time') or 'longitudinal.' While these aren't direct synonyms for 'centuries,' they describe the same kind of long-term perspective. For instance, a 'secular trend' is one that happens over many centuries. Another interesting alternative is 'generations.' While a generation is usually considered to be about 25-30 years, saying something has lasted for 'many generations' is a more human-centric way of describing a period that might span several centuries. This is often used in the context of family traditions or cultural heritage, emphasizing the transmission of knowledge from parents to children over a long time.

Centuries vs. Generations: 'Centuries' focuses on the calendar time, while 'generations' focuses on the human lineage and the passing of time through families.

The forest has remained untouched for centuries, allowing a unique ecosystem to develop.

It took centuries of scientific inquiry to finally understand the laws of motion.

The city's architecture is a blend of styles from different centuries, creating a unique urban landscape.

Choosing the right word depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. If you need to be precise about the 100-year increments, 'centuries' is the best choice. If you want to sound more casual, 'hundreds of years' works well. For a more human or traditional feel, 'generations' is a great alternative. And for vast, almost unimaginable stretches of time, 'millennia' or 'eons' are the words to use. By understanding these alternatives, you can vary your vocabulary and make your descriptions of time more accurate and engaging for your audience.

How Formal Is It?

격식체

중립

비격식체

Child friendly

속어

재미있는 사실

The use of 'century' to mean 100 years didn't become common in English until the 16th century. Before that, it mostly referred to a group of 100 things or people.

발음 가이드

UK /ˈsentʃəriz/

US /ˈsentʃəriz/

First syllable: SEN-turies.

라임이 맞는 단어

treasuries beneficiaries adversaries anniversaries dictionaries missionaries visionaries inventories

자주 하는 실수

Pronouncing it as 'sen-tuh-rees' without the 'ch' sound.
Stressing the second syllable.
Mispronouncing the 'ies' ending as a short 'i'.
Adding an extra syllable: 'sen-tu-er-ies'.
Confusing it with 'sentries' (guards).

난이도

독해 3/5

The word is common in history books and news, making it moderately easy to recognize.

쓰기 4/5

Requires understanding of pluralization and common prepositions.

말하기 3/5

Commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts.

듣기 3/5

Easy to hear, though the 'ch' sound can sometimes be tricky for learners.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

year hundred time old history

다음에 배울 것

millennium decade era epoch centennial

고급

periodization chronology longitudinal antiquity provenance

알아야 할 문법

Plural Nouns

One century, two centuries.

Prepositions of Time

For centuries, over the centuries.

Compound Adjectives

A centuries-old tradition.

Subject-Verb Agreement

Centuries have passed.

Ordinal Numbers with Centuries

The 18th and 19th centuries.

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수준별 예문

The old tree has lived for centuries.

L'arbre ancien a vécu pendant des siècles.

Uses 'for' to show duration.

This castle is many centuries old.

Ce château est vieux de plusieurs siècles.

Uses 'many' as a quantifier.

It took centuries to build the wall.

Il a fallu des siècles pour construire le mur.

Uses 'it took' to show time needed.

People have lived here for centuries.

Les gens vivent ici depuis des siècles.

Present perfect tense with 'for'.

The story is centuries old.

L'histoire est vieille de plusieurs siècles.

Simple adjective phrase.

We can see history from many centuries.

Nous pouvons voir l'histoire de plusieurs siècles.

Uses 'from' to show origin.

Centuries ago, there were no cars.

Il y a des siècles, il n'y avait pas de voitures.

Uses 'ago' to refer to the past.

The stars have been there for centuries.

Les étoiles sont là depuis des siècles.

Present perfect with 'for'.

The city has a history that spans centuries.

La ville a une histoire qui s'étend sur des siècles.

Uses the verb 'spans' to show duration.

These traditions have been passed down for centuries.

Ces traditions ont été transmises pendant des siècles.

Passive voice with 'for centuries'.

The bridge was built two centuries ago.

Le pont a été construit il y a deux siècles.

Specific number with 'centuries ago'.

It will take centuries for the forest to grow back.

Il faudra des siècles pour que la forêt repousse.

Future tense with 'it will take'.

The museum has artifacts from the 15th and 16th centuries.

Le musée possède des objets des XVe et XVIe siècles.

Referring to specific centuries.

They found a centuries-old map in the attic.

Ils ont trouvé une carte vieille de plusieurs siècles dans le grenier.

Hyphenated compound adjective.

Many empires rose and fell over the centuries.

De nombreux empires sont nés et sont tombés au fil des siècles.

Uses 'over the centuries' for a process.

The recipe has remained the same for centuries.

La recette est restée la même pendant des siècles.

Present perfect showing continuity.

The English language has changed significantly over the centuries.

La langue anglaise a considérablement évolué au fil des siècles.

Uses 'over the centuries' to describe evolution.

The conflict has its roots in centuries of ethnic tension.

Le conflit trouve ses racines dans des siècles de tensions ethniques.

Uses 'centuries of' as a quantifier for a noun.

It is a centuries-old tradition that is still celebrated today.

C'est une tradition vieille de plusieurs siècles qui est encore célébrée aujourd'hui.

Compound adjective 'centuries-old'.

The architecture of the city reflects many different centuries.

L'architecture de la ville reflète de nombreux siècles différents.

Plural 'centuries' to show variety.

The secrets of the pyramid were hidden for centuries.

Les secrets de la pyramide ont été cachés pendant des siècles.

Passive voice with 'for centuries'.

We must preserve these sites for future centuries.

Nous devons préserver ces sites pour les siècles futurs.

Looking forward into the future.

The discovery was the result of centuries of scientific inquiry.

La découverte était le résultat de siècles de recherche scientifique.

Noun phrase 'centuries of scientific inquiry'.

The family has lived in this house for several centuries.

La famille vit dans cette maison depuis plusieurs siècles.

Present perfect with 'for several centuries'.

The transition from the 18th to the 19th centuries was marked by the Industrial Revolution.

La transition du XVIIIe au XIXe siècle a été marquée par la révolution industrielle.

Referring to two specific centuries.

Across the centuries, philosophers have debated the nature of truth.

À travers les siècles, les philosophes ont débattu de la nature de la vérité.

Prepositional phrase 'Across the centuries'.

The landscape has been gradually shaped by the elements over many centuries.

Le paysage a été progressivement façonné par les éléments au cours de nombreux siècles.

Passive voice with 'over many centuries'.

The manuscript, though centuries old, is remarkably well-preserved.

Le manuscrit, bien que vieux de plusieurs siècles, est remarquablement bien conservé.

Adjective phrase 'centuries old' (no hyphen).

The town's charter dates back several centuries to the medieval era.

La charte de la ville remonte à plusieurs siècles, à l'époque médiévale.

Phrasal verb 'dates back' with 'several centuries'.

The influence of Roman law can still be felt centuries after the empire's fall.

L'influence du droit romain se fait encore sentir des siècles après la chute de l'empire.

Adverbial phrase 'centuries after'.

The forest is home to trees that have stood for centuries.

La forêt abrite des arbres qui se dressent là depuis des siècles.

Relative clause with 'for centuries'.

It took centuries of struggle to achieve universal suffrage.

Il a fallu des siècles de lutte pour obtenir le suffrage universel.

Noun phrase 'centuries of struggle'.

The sheer weight of centuries of tradition can sometimes stifle innovation.

Le poids même de siècles de tradition peut parfois étouffer l'innovation.

Metaphorical use of 'weight of centuries'.

The geological formations were created by processes spanning countless centuries.

Les formations géologiques ont été créées par des processus s'étendant sur d'innombrables siècles.

Participle phrase 'spanning countless centuries'.

The library houses a collection of texts that have survived the centuries.

La bibliothèque abrite une collection de textes qui ont survécu aux siècles.

Direct object of the verb 'survived'.

The cultural shifts of the 20th and 21st centuries have been unprecedented in their speed.

Les changements culturels des XXe et XXIe siècles ont été sans précédent par leur rapidité.

Comparing specific centuries.

The wisdom of centuries is often distilled into simple proverbs.

La sagesse des siècles est souvent distillée dans de simples proverbes.

Possessive phrase 'wisdom of centuries'.

The building's foundation has been weakened by centuries of water damage.

Les fondations du bâtiment ont été affaiblies par des siècles de dégâts des eaux.

Passive voice with 'by centuries of'.

The star's light has been traveling through the void for centuries.

La lumière de l'étoile voyage dans le vide depuis des siècles.

Present perfect continuous with 'for centuries'.

The legal system has evolved through centuries of case law and precedent.

Le système juridique a évolué à travers des siècles de jurisprudence et de précédents.

Prepositional phrase 'through centuries of'.

The 'longue durée' approach to history prioritizes the slow evolution of structures over centuries.

L'approche de la 'longue durée' de l'histoire privilégie l'évolution lente des structures sur des siècles.

Academic context using 'over centuries'.

The manuscript's provenance can be traced back through several centuries of private ownership.

La provenance du manuscrit peut être retracée à travers plusieurs siècles de propriété privée.

Complex sentence with 'through several centuries of'.

The architectural palimpsest of the city reveals layers from many different centuries.

Le palimpseste architectural de la ville révèle des couches de nombreux siècles différents.

Sophisticated vocabulary ('palimpsest') with 'centuries'.

The sheer endurance of these myths across the centuries is a testament to their universal appeal.

L'endurance même de ces mythes à travers les siècles témoigne de leur attrait universel.

Noun phrase 'endurance... across the centuries'.

The social fabric of the nation has been woven over centuries of immigration and integration.

Le tissu social de la nation a été tissé au cours de siècles d'immigration et d'intégration.

Metaphorical use of 'woven over centuries'.

The environmental impact of human activity will be felt for many centuries to come.

L'impact environnemental de l'activité humaine se fera sentir pendant de nombreux siècles à venir.

Future-oriented phrase 'for many centuries to come'.

The philosophical inquiry into the nature of time has spanned many centuries and cultures.

L'enquête philosophique sur la nature du temps s'est étendue sur de nombreux siècles et cultures.

Verb 'spanned' with 'many centuries'.

The dialect has been preserved in this isolated community for centuries, largely unchanged.

Le dialecte a été préservé dans cette communauté isolée pendant des siècles, en restant largement inchangé.

Passive voice with 'for centuries' and an appositive.

자주 쓰는 조합

for centuries

over the centuries

across the centuries

through the centuries

many centuries

several centuries

centuries-old

past centuries

future centuries

countless centuries

자주 쓰는 구문

at the turn of the centuries

the work of centuries

lost for centuries

dating back centuries

spanning centuries

weathered by centuries

perfected over centuries

passed down through the centuries

the wisdom of centuries

for centuries to come

자주 혼동되는 단어

centuries vs decades

Decades refers to 10-year periods, while centuries refers to 100-year periods.

centuries vs millennia

Millennia refers to 1,000-year periods, which is much longer than centuries.

centuries vs ages

Ages is more vague and often used figuratively, while centuries is a specific unit of time.

관용어 및 표현

"in centuries"

Used in negative sentences to mean 'for a very long time.'

I haven't seen a storm like this in centuries.

informal

"the weight of centuries"

The heavy influence or burden of a long history and tradition.

The young king felt the weight of centuries on his shoulders.

literary

"since the dawn of centuries"

A poetic way to say 'since the very beginning of recorded time.'

Humans have looked at the stars since the dawn of centuries.

poetic

"not in a thousand centuries"

An emphatic way to say 'never.'

I wouldn't agree to that, not in a thousand centuries!

informal

"through the mists of centuries"

Referring to something that is hard to see or understand because it happened so long ago.

The truth is lost through the mists of centuries.

literary

"a gap of centuries"

A very large difference in time or development between two things.

There is a gap of centuries between their way of life and ours.

neutral

"the march of centuries"

The steady and unstoppable passage of time.

Nothing can stop the march of centuries.

literary

"echoing through the centuries"

Having an effect or influence that lasts for a very long time.

His words are still echoing through the centuries.

literary

"the dust of centuries"

A way to describe something that has been forgotten or neglected for a long time.

He brushed away the dust of centuries from the old chest.

literary

"for all centuries"

A way to say 'forever' or 'for all time.'

His name will be remembered for all centuries.

poetic

혼동하기 쉬운

centuries vs century

Singular vs. plural.

Century is one 100-year period; centuries is more than one.

The 20th century was a time of change. Many centuries have passed since then.

centuries vs centurion

Similar root word.

A centurion was a Roman soldier; a century is a period of time.

The centurion lived many centuries ago.

centuries vs centenary

Both relate to 100 years.

Centenary is the 100th anniversary; centuries are the periods themselves.

We celebrated the centenary of the building, which has stood for centuries.

centuries vs centennial

Both relate to 100 years.

Centennial is an adjective meaning relating to 100 years; centuries is a noun.

The centennial celebration marked the end of two centuries of history.

centuries vs sentry

Similar sound.

A sentry is a guard; a century is a period of time.

The sentry stood guard for hours, but the castle has stood for centuries.

문장 패턴

It has been here for centuries.

The castle has been here for centuries.

The [noun] is [number] centuries old.

The bridge is two centuries old.

[Noun] has changed over the centuries.

The language has changed over the centuries.

Across the centuries, [subject] [verb].

Across the centuries, people have sought freedom.

The [noun] reflects many different centuries.

The city's architecture reflects many different centuries.

The [noun] has been shaped by centuries of [noun].

The culture has been shaped by centuries of migration.

In the [ordinal] and [ordinal] centuries...

In the 18th and 19th centuries, the world changed.

Many centuries ago, [subject] [verb].

Many centuries ago, kings ruled the land.

어휘 가족

명사

형용사

사용법

frequency

Common in history, science, and literature.

자주 하는 실수

Using 'century' instead of 'centuries' for multiple periods. → The 18th and 19th centuries.
When referring to more than one 100-year period, you must use the plural form.
Saying 'since centuries.' → For centuries.
In English, we use 'for' to show the duration of time, not 'since.'
Thinking the 19th century is the 1900s. → The 19th century is the 1800s.
Centuries are named for the 100-year period ending in that number. The 19th century ended in 1900.
Centuries has passed. → Centuries have passed.
Centuries is a plural noun and requires a plural verb.
A centuries old tradition. → A centuries-old tradition.
When used as an adjective before a noun, 'centuries-old' should be hyphenated.

팁

Subject-Verb Agreement

Always use a plural verb with 'centuries.' For example, say 'Centuries have passed,' not 'Centuries has passed.' This is a common mistake when the sentence is long.

Naming Centuries

Remember that the 21st century is the 2000s. A quick tip is to look at the first two digits of the year and add one (e.g., 1900s -> 19 + 1 = 20th century).

Hyphenation

Use a hyphen in 'centuries-old' only when it's before the noun. 'A centuries-old map' (hyphen) vs. 'The map is centuries old' (no hyphen).

Exaggeration

In casual conversation, 'centuries' is a great way to emphasize how long you've been waiting. It adds a bit of humor and drama to your speech.

Context Clues

When you hear 'centuries,' look for clues like 'ago' or 'to come' to know if the speaker is talking about the past or the future.

Historical Context

In history essays, use 'centuries' to group events and show long-term trends. It helps organize your thoughts and makes your writing more professional.

Prepositions

Master the prepositions 'for,' 'over,' and 'through.' Each one gives a slightly different meaning to how time is passing.

Plural Spelling

Remember to change the 'y' in 'century' to 'i' and add 'es' to make it plural: 'centuries.' This is a standard rule for words ending in a consonant + y.

Literature

In stories, 'centuries' often creates a sense of mystery or ancient power. Pay attention to how authors use it to set the mood.

Time Scale

Always keep the scale in mind: 1 century = 100 years. This helps you choose between 'decades,' 'centuries,' and 'millennia' correctly.

암기하기

기억법

Think of a 'cent' (1 penny). There are 100 cents in a dollar. A 'century' is 100 years. 'Centuries' is more than one of those 100-year blocks.

시각적 연상

Imagine a stack of 100-year-old calendars piled high, each one representing one century. The whole pile represents 'centuries.'

Word Web

Time History 100 years Past Future Era Age Millennium

챌린지

Try to use the word 'centuries' in three different sentences today: one about history, one about an old object, and one as an exaggeration.

어원

The word 'centuries' comes from the Latin word 'centuria,' which means a group of one hundred. This root 'cent-' (meaning hundred) is also found in words like 'cent,' 'percent,' and 'centipede.'

원래 의미: In ancient Rome, a 'centuria' was a military unit of 100 soldiers. Over time, the meaning shifted from a group of 100 people to a period of 100 years.

It is part of the Indo-European language family, specifically from the Italic branch (Latin).

문화적 맥락

When discussing 'centuries of history,' be mindful that different groups may have very different perspectives on the same time period, especially in the context of colonialism or conflict.

In English-speaking countries, 'centuries' is often used to evoke a sense of heritage and the long-term stability of democratic institutions.

The phrase 'Four score and seven years ago' from the Gettysburg Address refers to a period that is nearly a century. Many historical novels, like those by Ken Follett, span several centuries. The song 'Centuries' by Fall Out Boy uses the word to mean being remembered forever.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

History

the 18th and 19th centuries
over the centuries
many centuries ago
through the centuries

Architecture

centuries-old building
stood for centuries
built over centuries
survived the centuries

Science

over many centuries
for several centuries
across the centuries
centuries of data

Culture

centuries of tradition
passed down for centuries
perfected over centuries
wisdom of centuries

Conversation

in centuries
for centuries
it's been centuries
took centuries

대화 시작하기

"Do you think any of our modern buildings will still be standing in five centuries?"

"What is a centuries-old tradition in your country that you still follow?"

"If you could travel back several centuries, which time period would you visit?"

"Why do you think some empires last for centuries while others fall quickly?"

"How has your city changed over the last two centuries?"

일기 주제

Write about a centuries-old object you own or have seen in a museum. What is its story?

Imagine you are a tree that has lived for three centuries. Describe what you have seen.

How do you think the world will look several centuries from now?

Discuss a centuries-old conflict and why it has been so difficult to resolve.

Reflect on the 'wisdom of centuries.' What is one lesson from the past that we should still follow today?

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

A century is exactly one hundred years. Centuries is the plural form, meaning two or more periods of one hundred years. For example, 'The 19th century' is one period, while 'The 18th and 19th centuries' refers to two periods.

There are two hundred years in two centuries. Since one century is one hundred years, you simply multiply the number of centuries by one hundred to get the total number of years.

Use 'for centuries' to describe how long something has existed (e.g., 'The castle has stood for centuries'). Use 'over the centuries' to describe a process of change or evolution (e.g., 'The language has changed over the centuries').

No, it is only hyphenated when it is used as an adjective before a noun (e.g., 'a centuries-old tree'). If it comes after the noun, it is not hyphenated (e.g., 'The tree is centuries old').

Yes, it is very common in informal English to use 'centuries' to mean a long time. For example, 'I haven't seen you in centuries!' means you haven't seen the person for a long time, not literally hundreds of years.

The 1800s is the 19th century. This is because the 1st century was years 1-100, the 2nd century was 101-200, and so on. Always add one to the hundreds place to find the century.

It is a countable noun. You can have one century, two centuries, many centuries, etc. This means it can be used with numbers and quantifiers like 'several' or 'few'.

Common synonyms include 'hundreds of years,' 'ages' (informal), 'eras' (academic), and 'millennia' (if you mean thousands of years). The choice depends on the level of precision and formality you need.

It is pronounced 'SEN-chuh-reez.' The stress is on the first syllable, and the 't' and 'u' combine to make a 'ch' sound, like in 'church'.

Yes, you can use it to talk about long periods of time in the future. For example, 'It will take many centuries for the planet to recover' or 'This monument will stand for centuries to come'.

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