email_address
The address used to send and receive email.
An email address is your digital mailbox identifier required for almost all online services.
Word in 30 Seconds
- A unique identifier for digital messaging.
- Composed of a username and a domain.
- Essential for modern online communication.
Summary
An email address is your digital mailbox identifier required for almost all online services.
- A unique identifier for digital messaging.
- Composed of a username and a domain.
- Essential for modern online communication.
Use professional addresses for work
Always use a simple, professional email address for job applications. Avoid nicknames or unprofessional terms to make a good impression.
Keep your email address private
Do not share your primary email address on public forums to avoid spam. Use secondary addresses for signing up for random services.
Global standard for digital identity
The format of an email address is universal across all countries. Regardless of your language, the '@' structure remains the same worldwide.
Examples
3 of 3What is your email address?
Please provide your professional email address for our records.
I'll shoot you an email address later.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of it as your digital house address where the mail arrives. Just as you need a street address to receive letters, you need an email address to receive digital messages.
Overview
An email address is the fundamental identifier for digital communication. It is structured into two parts separated by an '@' symbol: the local part (the username) and the domain name (the service provider or organization). Usage Patterns: People use email addresses to sign up for accounts, send documents, and communicate with colleagues or friends. In formal settings, it is common to provide a professional-looking email address, while informal addresses may be more creative or personal. Common Contexts: You will encounter requests for email addresses in almost every digital interaction, from online shopping checkouts and social media registrations to job applications and university enrollment. It is the primary way to verify one's identity online. Similar Words Comparison: While 'username' refers to a handle for a specific platform, an 'email address' is a universal communication tool. 'Website' refers to a destination on the internet, whereas 'email address' is a point of contact for messaging. Understanding the distinction between these terms helps in navigating digital forms and account management effectively.
Usage Notes
The term is used neutrally in both formal and informal contexts. It is standard to say 'my email address is' rather than just 'my email is' in very formal writing, though both are widely accepted.
Common Mistakes
People often forget to include the '@' symbol or the domain extension like '.com'. Ensure you do not add spaces within the address, as this makes it invalid.
Memory Tip
Think of it as your digital house address where the mail arrives. Just as you need a street address to receive letters, you need an email address to receive digital messages.
Word Origin
The term is a compound of 'electronic' and 'mail'. It emerged in the 1970s as computer networks began to allow digital messaging between users.
Cultural Context
In modern society, an email address is almost as important as a phone number. It serves as a key identifier for government services, banking, and social networking.
Examples
What is your email address?
everydayPlease provide your professional email address for our records.
formalI'll shoot you an email address later.
informalWord Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
check your email
email me
Often Confused With
A username is for a specific website or app, while an email address is a universal communication tool.
Grammar Patterns
Use professional addresses for work
Always use a simple, professional email address for job applications. Avoid nicknames or unprofessional terms to make a good impression.
Keep your email address private
Do not share your primary email address on public forums to avoid spam. Use secondary addresses for signing up for random services.
Global standard for digital identity
The format of an email address is universal across all countries. Regardless of your language, the '@' structure remains the same worldwide.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct term.
Please enter your ___ in the box provided so we can send the receipt.
An email address is the standard identifier used for receiving digital receipts.
Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsYou cannot usually change an existing email address once created, but you can create a new one. To keep your contacts, you may need to forward messages from the old account to the new one.
The '@' symbol is called the 'at' sign. It separates the user's name from the domain name in the address.
Generally, the part after the '@' is not case-sensitive, but the part before it can be depending on the provider. It is safest to always use lowercase letters.
Related Grammar Rules
Related Vocabulary
More communication words
advice
A2Guidance or recommendations about future actions.
advise
A2To give someone advice.
aloud
A2Speaking so that people can hear you.
communication
B1The imparting or exchanging of information.
complain
A2To express dissatisfaction or annoyance about something.
congratulate
A2To express praise for an achievement or good fortune.
conversation
A2A talk between two or more people.
converse
B2To engage in conversation.
disagree
B1To have a different opinion.
Messages sent electronically over the internet.
