At the A1 level, 'patterns' means simple things that repeat. Think about colors or shapes. For example, if you see a shirt with red and white stripes, that is a pattern. Red, white, red, white—this is a pattern. You can see patterns in your classroom, like the tiles on the floor or the windows in a building. Children learn about patterns in math class by looking at numbers like 2, 4, 6, 8. This is a number pattern. At this level, we use the word to talk about things we can see with our eyes. It is a very easy way to describe how things look. You might say, 'I like the pattern on your dress.' This means you like the repeated design. It is important to know that a pattern is not just one thing; it is many things that look the same and happen again and again. You can also have a pattern in your day. For example, if you eat breakfast at 8:00 every morning, that is a pattern. It is a simple routine. When you learn this word, try to find patterns around you. Look at your clothes, the floor, or the clock. It helps you describe the world in a simple way.
At the A2 level, 'patterns' starts to include more than just visual designs. You can use it to talk about routines and simple habits. For example, you can talk about your 'sleep patterns'—what time you go to bed and what time you wake up every day. You can also talk about 'weather patterns.' If it rains every afternoon in the summer, that is a weather pattern. At this level, you should be able to describe a pattern using simple adjectives. You might say a pattern is 'beautiful,' 'simple,' or 'strange.' You can also use the word to talk about how you learn. For example, 'English grammar has many patterns.' This means that many sentences follow the same rules. If you learn the pattern, you can speak more easily. In a shop, you might see 'sewing patterns.' These are paper guides that help people make clothes. So, at A2, 'patterns' means things that repeat in design, in time, or in rules. It is a very useful word for explaining why things happen in a certain way. You can start using it to describe your life and the things you see every day.
At the B1 level, you can use 'patterns' to discuss more complex ideas like social trends and data. You might talk about 'spending patterns'—how people choose to use their money over a month or a year. You can also use it in a professional or academic setting. For example, 'The researchers found a pattern in the results.' This means they found a logical connection between different pieces of information. At this level, you should understand that 'patterns' often implies a level of predictability. If you recognize a pattern, you can guess what will happen next. You can also use the word in the context of psychology, such as 'patterns of behavior.' This refers to the way people usually act in certain situations. For instance, 'He has a pattern of arriving late to meetings.' You can also use the word as an adjective: 'patterned.' A 'patterned carpet' has a design on it. At B1, you are moving from just seeing patterns to analyzing them. You are starting to use the word to explain the reasons behind events and behaviors. It is a key word for making your English sound more organized and thoughtful.
At the B2 level, 'patterns' is a crucial word for analytical thinking and detailed description. You are expected to use it to describe systemic regularities in various fields. In business, you might analyze 'consumer buying patterns' to develop a marketing strategy. In science, you could discuss 'migration patterns' of animals or 'climatic patterns' over decades. At this level, you should be comfortable using the word in phrases like 'a pattern emerges' or 'to identify a pattern.' These expressions suggest a deeper level of observation. You can also use 'patterns' to talk about abstract concepts like language. For example, 'Linguists study the patterns of syntax in different languages.' This means they look for the underlying rules that govern how sentences are built. You should also be aware of the word's use in technology, specifically 'pattern recognition,' which is a fundamental part of how computers process information. At B2, you use 'patterns' to connect different ideas and to show that you understand the structure of complex systems. It is no longer just about visual designs; it is about the logical framework of the world around you. You can use it to argue a point or to provide a detailed explanation of a phenomenon.
At the C1 level, your use of 'patterns' should reflect a sophisticated understanding of structural and systemic regularities. You can use the word to discuss nuanced topics like 'patterns of thought' or 'cultural patterns.' This refers to the deep-seated ways that people in a particular society think and act. You might analyze 'patterns of institutionalized discrimination' or 'patterns of economic growth' in a historical context. At this level, you should be able to use the word with precision, distinguishing it from related terms like 'motifs,' 'trends,' or 'sequences.' You can use 'patterns' to describe the recursive nature of complex systems, such as fractals in nature or the cyclical nature of history. You might also use it in a literary sense to discuss the 'thematic patterns' in a novel—how certain ideas or images appear throughout the text to create a deeper meaning. In a professional environment, you might be 'patterning' a new project after a successful previous one, using the word as a verb to indicate modeling and replication. At C1, 'patterns' is a tool for high-level synthesis and critical analysis, allowing you to describe the intricate and often hidden structures that govern human experience and the natural world.
At the C2 level, 'patterns' is used with complete mastery to describe the most abstract and profound regularities of existence. You can use it to engage in philosophical or highly technical discourse. For instance, you might discuss the 'mathematical patterns' that underpin the laws of physics or the 'evolutionary patterns' that have shaped life on Earth over billions of years. At this level, you can use the word to describe the 'ontological patterns' of reality—the fundamental structures of being. You might analyze 'patterns of global power' in political science or 'patterns of neural activity' in neuroscience with extreme detail. Your use of the word will often be metaphorical or highly specialized. You can discuss 'breaking the pattern' not just as a change in habit, but as a paradigm shift in thought or societal structure. You should be able to use 'patterns' to weave together disparate pieces of information into a cohesive, systemic whole. Whether you are discussing the 'fractal patterns' of a coastline or the 'rhetorical patterns' of a great orator, your use of the word demonstrates a deep appreciation for the order and complexity of the universe. At C2, 'patterns' is more than a word; it is a conceptual lens through which you interpret and explain the totality of human knowledge.

patterns 30秒了解

  • Patterns are regular, repeated sequences or designs found in nature, art, behavior, and data, providing a sense of order and predictability in the world.
  • The word can refer to visual motifs on surfaces, habitual actions in psychology, or logical trends identified through the analysis of scientific and financial information.
  • In manufacturing and crafts, a pattern is a physical template or guide used to replicate a specific design, such as a sewing or knitting pattern.
  • Identifying patterns is a fundamental human cognitive ability that allows us to understand complex systems, forecast future events, and make informed decisions based on past data.

The word 'patterns' is a multifaceted noun that refers to the regular, repeated, or recurring ways in which something happens or is done. It is a fundamental concept used across various disciplines, from the visual arts and mathematics to psychology and data science. In its most literal sense, a pattern is a visible design consisting of repeated shapes, colors, or motifs. You might notice patterns on a piece of fabric, a tiled floor, or the skin of an animal. These visual regularities help us organize sensory information and find beauty in symmetry. Beyond the visual, 'patterns' describes sequences or series of events that occur in a predictable fashion. For instance, meteorologists look for weather patterns to forecast the coming week, while economists analyze spending patterns to understand market trends. In human behavior, patterns refer to habits or consistent ways of acting. If someone always reacts to stress by exercising, that is a behavioral pattern. The term is essential because it allows us to make sense of the world; by identifying a pattern, we move from seeing random data to understanding an underlying rule. People use this word when they want to highlight consistency, predictability, or a template that guides the creation of something else.

Visual Design
Refers to repeated decorative motifs on surfaces like textiles, wallpapers, or ceramics.

The architect used intricate geometric patterns to decorate the ceiling of the cathedral.

Behavioral Consistency
Describes the recurring habits or tendencies in how individuals or groups act over time.

Psychologists often look for patterns of behavior that stem from childhood experiences.

Furthermore, the word is used in manufacturing and crafts to denote a model or guide used for making something. A sewing pattern, for example, is a paper template used to cut fabric into the correct shapes for a garment. In this context, the pattern is the 'original' from which copies are made. In the digital age, 'pattern recognition' is a key term in artificial intelligence, referring to the ability of software to identify regularities in large datasets, such as recognizing a face in a photo or a voice in an audio recording. Whether we are talking about the stripes on a zebra, the rhythm of a song, or the fluctuations of the stock market, 'patterns' help us categorize the chaos of reality into understandable structures. It is a word that bridges the gap between art and science, making it indispensable for clear communication in English.

Scientific Observation
The identification of regular sequences in natural phenomena, such as planetary orbits or DNA sequences.

Scientists are studying the migration patterns of birds to understand the impact of climate change.

The software is designed to detect unusual patterns in credit card transactions to prevent fraud.

Her dress featured bold floral patterns that were popular in the 1970s.

Using 'patterns' effectively requires understanding whether you are referring to something concrete (like a design) or something abstract (like a trend). When used as a noun, it is frequently paired with verbs like 'identify', 'recognize', 'follow', 'break', or 'emerge'. For example, you might say, 'A clear pattern is beginning to emerge from the data,' suggesting that a previously hidden regularity is now visible. If you are discussing habits, you might say, 'It is difficult to break old patterns of behavior,' which implies that long-standing habits are hard to change. In a creative context, you could describe a 'complex pattern of colors and shapes.' Note that 'patterns' is the plural form, and it is used much more frequently than the singular 'pattern' when discussing general trends or multiple designs. However, the singular is used when referring to a specific template: 'I bought a pattern for a new coat.' When describing something that has a pattern, the adjective 'patterned' is often used, as in 'a patterned shirt.' In academic writing, 'patterns' is a high-frequency word used to describe correlations and systematic observations.

Identifying Trends
Using the word to describe the result of data analysis or logical observation.

The researcher identified several patterns in how the virus spreads through urban populations.

Describing Aesthetics
Using the word to talk about the visual appearance of objects or environments.

The wallpaper was covered in intricate patterns of leaves and vines.

In more advanced usage, 'patterns' can be used as a verb (though less commonly than the noun). To pattern something after something else means to model it on that thing. For example, 'The new education system was patterned after the Finnish model.' Here, 'patterned' functions as a past participle. In everyday conversation, you will most likely use the noun to describe things that repeat. You might talk about 'sleep patterns,' 'eating patterns,' or 'speech patterns.' These phrases describe the typical way someone sleeps, eats, or speaks. When you notice that something is happening over and over again, you are 'noticing a pattern.' This is a very common expression in both casual and professional English. It suggests that the events are not random but are linked by some underlying cause. Using 'patterns' allows you to sound more analytical and observant.

Modeling and Templates
Referring to a physical or conceptual guide used to replicate a design.

She followed the knitting patterns carefully to ensure the sweater was the right size.

The city's street patterns are designed in a grid to make navigation easier.

There are distinct patterns of migration that have shaped the history of this continent.

You will encounter the word 'patterns' in almost every walk of life, but its meaning shifts slightly depending on the environment. In a business meeting, you might hear a manager talk about 'consumer buying patterns.' This refers to the data showing when and what people are purchasing. In a science classroom, a teacher might explain 'weather patterns' or 'growth patterns' in plants. In these contexts, the word is used to describe natural cycles and logical sequences. If you are interested in fashion or interior design, you will hear 'patterns' used to describe the aesthetic look of fabrics and materials. Designers might discuss 'clashing patterns' (when two designs don't look good together) or 'subtle patterns' (designs that are hard to see). In the world of technology, 'pattern recognition' is a major topic, especially concerning how computers 'see' images or 'understand' language. You will also hear it in news reports concerning social issues, such as 'patterns of inequality' or 'patterns of crime,' where it describes systemic problems that repeat over time. In daily life, you might use it to describe your own routine, such as your 'sleep patterns' or 'exercise patterns.' It is a word that helps us communicate that something is not a one-time event, but part of a larger, repeating story.

Data and Analytics
Used to describe the results of statistical analysis and trend spotting.

The analyst noticed several patterns in the user data that suggested a need for a new feature.

Fashion and Textiles
Used to describe the visual motifs and templates used in clothing design.

This season, many designers are experimenting with traditional plaid patterns.

In the medical field, doctors look for 'patterns of symptoms' to diagnose a disease. If three different symptoms always appear together, that is a pattern that points to a specific condition. In law enforcement, detectives look for 'patterns of criminal activity' to predict where a crime might happen next. Even in sports, coaches analyze the 'play patterns' of the opposing team to develop a winning strategy. The word is ubiquitous because the human brain is naturally wired to seek out patterns. We find comfort in them because they make the world predictable. When you hear the word 'patterns,' think of it as a bridge between the past and the future—it tells us what has happened repeatedly so we can guess what might happen next. It is a powerful word for describing the structure of our lives and the world around us.

Behavioral Science
Used to describe the habitual actions of individuals or groups.

Changing your sleep patterns can have a significant impact on your overall health.

The computer can identify patterns in human speech to provide more accurate translations.

The geologist studied the patterns of rock layers to determine the age of the mountain range.

One of the most common mistakes learners make with 'patterns' is confusing it with the word 'designs.' While all patterns are designs, not all designs are patterns. A design is a general term for the appearance or plan of something, but a pattern specifically requires repetition. For example, a single painting is a design, but a wallpaper with the same flower repeated a hundred times is a pattern. Another mistake is using the singular 'pattern' when the plural 'patterns' is required. When talking about general trends or habits, English speakers almost always use the plural. For instance, saying 'I am studying the pattern of the weather' sounds slightly unnatural unless you are looking at one very specific, singular sequence; 'I am studying weather patterns' is much more common. Additionally, learners sometimes confuse 'patterns' with 'habits.' While they are related, 'habits' are personal and individual, whereas 'patterns' can be used for anything—data, nature, groups of people, or visual objects. You wouldn't say 'the habit of the ocean waves,' but you would say 'the pattern of the ocean waves.'

Pattern vs. Design
A pattern must repeat; a design can be a unique, one-off creation.

Incorrect: The artist created a beautiful pattern of a single sunset. Correct: The artist created a beautiful design of a single sunset.

Singular vs. Plural
Use the plural 'patterns' when discussing general trends, behaviors, or multiple instances of repetition.

Incorrect: We need to analyze the pattern of our customers. Correct: We need to analyze the patterns of our customers.

There is also a subtle difference between 'patterns' and 'models.' A model is often a representation of how something works or a person to be imitated, while a pattern is the actual sequence or design itself. If you say someone is a 'model student,' you mean they are an example. If you say they follow a 'pattern of study,' you are describing their specific routine. Lastly, be careful with the preposition used with 'patterns.' We usually see patterns 'in' something (patterns in the data) or patterns 'of' something (patterns of behavior). Using 'on' is usually reserved for visual designs (patterns on the wall). Misusing these prepositions can make your English sound less fluent. Always remember that 'patterns' implies a level of predictability; if something is completely random, it has no pattern.

Pattern vs. Habit
Patterns are broader and can apply to inanimate objects or data; habits are specific to living beings.

Incorrect: The computer noticed a habit in the code. Correct: The computer noticed a pattern in the code.

Incorrect: There are many patterns on this single, plain white shirt. Correct: There are no patterns on this single, plain white shirt.

Incorrect: I am following a pattern for my life. Correct: I am following a pattern of behavior in my life.

Depending on the context, several words can serve as synonyms or alternatives to 'patterns.' If you are talking about visual designs, 'motif' is a more sophisticated word, often used in art and literature to describe a recurring element. 'Design' is a broader term that can be used if the repetition is not the main focus. In scientific or mathematical contexts, 'sequence' or 'series' might be more precise, especially if the order of elements is crucial. When discussing behavior or social trends, 'trends' or 'tendencies' are excellent alternatives. A 'trend' suggests a general direction in which something is developing, while a 'pattern' suggests a more rigid or established repetition. 'Routine' is a good substitute for 'behavioral patterns' when talking about daily activities. In manufacturing, 'template' or 'blueprint' can replace 'pattern' when referring to a guide or model. Understanding these nuances will help you choose the most accurate word for your specific situation.

Motif vs. Pattern
A motif is a single recurring element; a pattern is the overall arrangement of those elements.

The floral motif was repeated throughout the pattern of the rug.

Trend vs. Pattern
A trend is a direction of change; a pattern is a structure of repetition.

There is a growing trend toward remote work, but we are still seeing traditional patterns of office attendance.

Another useful word is 'regularity,' which emphasizes the fact that something happens at fixed intervals. 'Consistency' is similar but often refers to the quality of remaining the same. In some cases, 'system' can be used if the pattern is part of a larger, organized whole. For example, 'the judicial system' follows certain 'patterns of law.' If you are describing something that is used as a basis for other things, 'prototype' or 'archetype' might be appropriate. These words carry a sense of being the first or most important version of a pattern. By expanding your vocabulary to include these synonyms, you can avoid repeating the word 'patterns' too often in your writing and speaking, making your English sound more varied and professional.

Sequence vs. Pattern
A sequence is a specific order of items; a pattern is the rule that governs that order.

The DNA sequence revealed several interesting genetic patterns.

The architect's blueprint served as the pattern for the entire housing development.

We noticed a regularity in the machine's vibrations that indicated a mechanical failure.

How Formal Is It?

趣味小知识

The words 'patron' and 'pattern' were originally the same word. A 'patron' was someone who provided a 'pattern' or model for others to follow. Over time, 'patron' came to mean a supporter, while 'pattern' came to mean the design itself.

发音指南

UK /ˈpæt.ənz/
US /ˈpæt̬.ɚnz/
The stress is on the first syllable: PAT-terns.
押韵词
Saturns Slatterns Lanterns Westerns Concerns Governs Returns Learns
常见错误
  • Pronouncing the 'tt' too heavily like a 't' in American English.
  • Forgetting the 's' at the end when talking about general trends.
  • Mispronouncing the 'a' as an 'ah' sound.
  • Stress on the second syllable.
  • Pronouncing the 's' as a sharp 's' instead of a 'z' sound.

难度评级

阅读 3/5

The word is common, but its meaning can be abstract in scientific texts.

写作 4/5

Requires understanding of collocations like 'patterns of' or 'patterns in'.

口语 3/5

Easy to pronounce, but used in many different contexts.

听力 2/5

Usually clear in speech, though the 'tt' can vary by accent.

接下来学什么

前置知识

Repeat Design Same Again Look

接下来学习

Sequence Trend Correlation Systematic Regularity

高级

Fractal Paradigm Algorithm Ontology Recursive

需要掌握的语法

Pluralization of Countable Nouns

One pattern, two patterns.

Prepositional Phrases with 'Of'

Patterns of behavior.

Prepositional Phrases with 'In'

Patterns in the data.

Using Nouns as Adjectives

Pattern recognition software.

Past Participles as Adjectives

A patterned shirt.

按水平分级的例句

1

The shirt has a pattern of blue and white stripes.

La camisa tiene un patrón de rayas azules y blancas.

Simple noun usage with 'of'.

2

I like the patterns on the floor tiles.

Me gustan los patrones de las baldosas del suelo.

Plural noun referring to visual design.

3

Look at the pattern: red, blue, red, blue.

Mira el patrón: rojo, azul, rojo, azul.

Used to describe a simple sequence.

4

The wallpaper has a pretty flower pattern.

El papel pintado tiene un bonito patrón de flores.

Compound noun 'flower pattern'.

5

We can see patterns in the stars at night.

Podemos ver patrones en las estrellas por la noche.

Plural noun in a prepositional phrase.

6

This is a simple number pattern: 1, 2, 1, 2.

Este es un patrón numérico simple: 1, 2, 1, 2.

Used with the adjective 'simple'.

7

The cat has black and orange patterns on its fur.

El gato tiene patrones negros y naranjas en su pelaje.

Describing natural markings.

8

I follow a pattern when I wash my hands.

Sigo un patrón cuando me lavo las manos.

Referring to a simple routine.

1

I am trying to change my sleep patterns.

Estoy intentando cambiar mis patrones de sueño.

Common collocation 'sleep patterns'.

2

The weather patterns are different this year.

Los patrones climáticos son diferentes este año.

Plural noun as a subject.

3

She bought a sewing pattern to make a dress.

Ella compró un patrón de costura para hacer un vestido.

Singular noun meaning 'template'.

4

There are many patterns in English grammar.

Hay muchos patrones en la gramática inglesa.

Referring to linguistic regularities.

5

The birds follow the same migration patterns every year.

Las aves siguen los mismos patrones de migración cada año.

Describing animal behavior.

6

I noticed a pattern in how he speaks.

Noté un patrón en cómo habla.

Used with the verb 'notice'.

7

The rug has a very traditional pattern.

La alfombra tiene un patrón muy tradicional.

Describing aesthetic style.

8

You can find patterns in nature, like on a leaf.

Puedes encontrar patrones en la naturaleza, como en una hoja.

General observation of the natural world.

1

The company is analyzing consumer spending patterns.

La empresa está analizando los patrones de gasto de los consumidores.

Professional context, 'spending patterns'.

2

A clear pattern emerged from the research data.

Un patrón claro surgió de los datos de la investigación.

Common expression 'a pattern emerged'.

3

It is hard to break old patterns of behavior.

Es difícil romper viejos patrones de comportamiento.

Psychological context, 'patterns of behavior'.

4

The city's traffic patterns change during the weekend.

Los patrones de tráfico de la ciudad cambian durante el fin de semana.

Describing urban systems.

5

The artist uses geometric patterns to create a sense of order.

El artista utiliza patrones geométricos para crear una sensación de orden.

Artistic context.

6

We need to identify the patterns of growth in the garden.

Necesitamos identificar los patrones de crecimiento en el jardín.

Scientific/observational context.

7

Her speech patterns suggest she is from the south.

Sus patrones de habla sugieren que es del sur.

Referring to accents or linguistic habits.

8

The software can recognize patterns in your typing.

El software puede reconocer patrones en tu escritura.

Technological context, 'recognize patterns'.

1

The study revealed significant patterns of inequality in the region.

El estudio reveló patrones significativos de desigualdad en la región.

Sociological context, 'patterns of inequality'.

2

Investors look for patterns in the stock market to make decisions.

Los inversores buscan patrones en el mercado de valores para tomar decisiones.

Financial context.

3

The architect patterned the building after a traditional temple.

El arquitecto diseñó el edificio siguiendo el modelo de un templo tradicional.

Used as a verb meaning 'to model after'.

4

There is a recurring pattern of conflict between the two nations.

Hay un patrón recurrente de conflicto entre las dos naciones.

Political context, 'recurring pattern'.

5

The algorithm is designed for complex pattern recognition.

El algoritmo está diseñado para el reconocimiento de patrones complejos.

Technical term 'pattern recognition'.

6

We can observe patterns of seasonal change in the forest.

Podemos observar patrones de cambio estacional en el bosque.

Scientific observation.

7

The novel explores the patterns of family life in the 19th century.

La novela explora los patrones de la vida familiar en el siglo XIX.

Literary analysis.

8

His career followed a typical pattern of rapid promotion.

Su carrera siguió un patrón típico de promoción rápida.

Describing a professional trajectory.

1

The philosopher discussed the patterns of human thought throughout history.

El filósofo discutió los patrones del pensamiento humano a lo largo de la historia.

Abstract philosophical context.

2

Climate change is disrupting established weather patterns globally.

El cambio climático está alterando los patrones climáticos establecidos a nivel mundial.

Environmental context, 'disrupting patterns'.

3

The detective looked for patterns of behavior that might link the crimes.

El detective buscó patrones de comportamiento que pudieran vincular los crímenes.

Criminological context.

4

The music is characterized by intricate rhythmic patterns.

La música se caracteriza por patrones rítmicos intrincados.

Musicological context.

5

Sociologists examine the patterns of social mobility in modern societies.

Los sociólogos examinan los patrones de movilidad social en las sociedades modernas.

Academic sociological context.

6

The software identifies patterns in large datasets to predict future trends.

El software identifica patrones en grandes conjuntos de datos para predecir tendencias futuras.

Data science context.

7

The artist's work is a study of the patterns found in urban decay.

La obra del artista es un estudio de los patrones encontrados en la decadencia urbana.

Artistic analysis.

8

The government is trying to change the patterns of energy consumption.

El gobierno está tratando de cambiar los patrones de consumo de energía.

Policy and environmental context.

1

The physicist explored the underlying mathematical patterns of the universe.

El físico exploró los patrones matemáticos subyacentes del universo.

Advanced scientific context.

2

The historian argued that there are discernible patterns in the rise and fall of empires.

El historiador argumentó que existen patrones perceptibles en el ascenso y la caída de los imperios.

Historical theory context.

3

The study of fractals reveals the recursive patterns inherent in nature.

El estudio de los fractales revela los patrones recursivos inherentes a la naturaleza.

Mathematical/natural philosophy context.

4

The author uses linguistic patterns to evoke a sense of nostalgia.

El autor utiliza patrones lingüísticos para evocar una sensación de nostalgia.

Literary stylistic analysis.

5

Neural patterns in the brain can be mapped using advanced imaging technology.

Los patrones neuronales en el cerebro pueden mapearse utilizando tecnología de imagen avanzada.

Neuroscientific context.

6

The project aims to disrupt the patterns of systemic poverty through education.

El proyecto tiene como objetivo romper los patrones de pobreza sistémica a través de la educación.

Social policy context, 'disrupt patterns'.

7

The architecture reflects the cultural patterns of the indigenous population.

La arquitectura refleja los patrones culturales de la población indígena.

Anthropological/architectural context.

8

The economic model failed to account for the erratic patterns of human emotion.

El modelo económico no tuvo en cuenta los patrones erráticos de la emoción humana.

Behavioral economics context.

常见搭配

Recognize patterns
Behavioral patterns
Weather patterns
Intricate patterns
Repeating patterns
Geometric patterns
Sleep patterns
Spending patterns
Growth patterns
Traffic patterns

常用短语

A pattern emerges

— Used when a regularity or trend becomes visible after observing data or events. It suggests a moment of realization.

After three days of observation, a clear pattern emerged.

Break the pattern

— To stop doing something that has become a habit or a recurring event. It implies a conscious effort to change.

She decided to break the pattern of unhealthy eating.

Follow a pattern

— To act or develop in a way that is consistent with a previous sequence or rule. It suggests predictability.

The disease seems to follow a predictable pattern.

Set a pattern

— To establish a way of doing things that others will follow or that will repeat in the future.

His early success set a pattern for the rest of his career.

Pattern of life

— The typical way that a person or group lives and behaves on a daily basis.

The war completely disrupted their traditional pattern of life.

Pattern of thought

— The habitual way that someone thinks about things or approaches problems.

Cognitive therapy aims to change negative patterns of thought.

In a pattern

— Arranged or occurring in a regular, repeating way.

The trees were planted in a zigzag pattern.

Notice a pattern

— To become aware of a regularity that was previously unnoticed.

I've started to notice a pattern in the way he avoids questions.

Search for patterns

— To actively look for regularities or connections in data or information.

Detectives are searching for patterns in the recent burglaries.

Shift in patterns

— A change in the regular way that something happens or is done.

There has been a significant shift in migration patterns.

容易混淆的词

patterns vs Patron

A patron is a person who supports someone; a pattern is a design or sequence.

patterns vs Design

A design is a general plan; a pattern specifically requires repetition.

patterns vs Habit

A habit is a personal routine; a pattern is a broader term for any repetition.

习语与表达

"Holding pattern"

— A state of waiting or delay where no progress is being made. Originally from aviation.

The project is in a holding pattern until we get more funding.

Neutral
"Cut from the same pattern"

— To be very similar in character or nature to someone else. A variation of 'cut from the same cloth'.

The two brothers are cut from the same pattern; both are very stubborn.

Informal
"A pattern of behavior"

— A recurring way of acting that becomes predictable. Often used in legal or psychological contexts.

The defendant has a long pattern of behavior involving theft.

Formal
"Set the pattern"

— To provide an example or a standard that will be followed by others.

The first school in the district set the pattern for all the others.

Neutral
"Break the mold/pattern"

— To do something in a completely new and different way, ending a long-standing tradition.

Her new movie really breaks the pattern of typical romantic comedies.

Informal
"Pattern of events"

— The sequence of things that happen, especially when they seem to lead to a specific result.

The pattern of events suggests that the accident was avoidable.

Neutral
"Follow the pattern"

— To do exactly what has been done before or what is expected.

The new employees are expected to follow the pattern set by their supervisors.

Neutral
"Pattern of abuse"

— A recurring series of harmful actions toward another person.

The social worker identified a pattern of abuse in the household.

Formal
"Dark patterns"

— Deceptive user interface designs used to trick website visitors into doing things they didn't intend.

The website used dark patterns to make it difficult to cancel the subscription.

Technical
"Pattern of growth"

— The regular way in which something increases in size, value, or complexity.

The company's pattern of growth has been steady for ten years.

Business

容易混淆

patterns vs Model

Both can mean a guide for creation.

A model is often a 3D representation or an ideal example, while a pattern is usually a 2D template or a sequence of events.

He is a model student who follows a strict pattern of study.

patterns vs Trend

Both describe things that happen over time.

A trend is the general direction of change (up or down), while a pattern is the specific way things repeat.

The trend is toward higher prices, but the pattern of sales remains seasonal.

patterns vs Sequence

Both involve things following one another.

A sequence is just the order of items, while a pattern is the logic or design that makes that order predictable.

The sequence of numbers followed a mathematical pattern.

patterns vs Motif

Both refer to recurring designs.

A motif is a single recurring element (like a specific flower), while a pattern is the entire arrangement of those elements.

The rose motif was used throughout the floral pattern of the curtains.

patterns vs Routine

Both describe repeating actions.

A routine is a set of actions followed regularly by a person, while a pattern can describe anything that repeats, including inanimate objects.

My morning routine follows a very specific pattern.

句型

A1

The [noun] has a [adjective] pattern.

The shirt has a striped pattern.

A2

I noticed a pattern in [noun].

I noticed a pattern in the weather.

B1

A pattern is beginning to emerge from [noun].

A pattern is beginning to emerge from the survey results.

B2

It is difficult to break [adjective] patterns of [noun].

It is difficult to break established patterns of consumption.

C1

The [noun] is characterized by [adjective] patterns of [noun].

The region is characterized by complex patterns of migration.

C2

The underlying patterns of [noun] reveal a [adjective] structure.

The underlying patterns of neural activity reveal a highly organized structure.

B1

We are analyzing [noun] patterns to [verb].

We are analyzing spending patterns to save money.

B2

The [noun] was patterned after [noun].

The garden was patterned after a famous park in Paris.

词族

名词

Pattern
Patterning

动词

Pattern

形容词

Patterned
Patternless

相关

Design
Motif
Sequence
Template
Regularity

如何使用

frequency

Very high in academic, scientific, and design contexts.

常见错误
  • Using 'pattern' for a single, non-repeating design. Use 'design' or 'image'.

    A pattern must involve repetition. If a shirt has one large picture of a cat on it, it's a design, not a pattern. If it has fifty small cats, it's a pattern.

  • Saying 'the pattern of my habit'. Say 'my behavioral patterns' or 'my habits'.

    This is redundant. A habit is already a type of pattern. It's better to use one or the other, or combine them as 'habitual patterns'.

  • Confusing 'pattern' with 'patron'. A patron is a supporter; a pattern is a design.

    These words sound similar but have completely different meanings. Always check the spelling and context to ensure you are using the right one.

  • Using 'on' for abstract patterns. Use 'in' for abstract patterns (e.g., patterns in the data).

    We use 'on' for visual patterns on a surface (on the wall, on the shirt). For abstract concepts like data or behavior, we use 'in'.

  • Using the singular 'pattern' for general trends. Use the plural 'patterns'.

    When discussing things like weather, spending, or migration, English speakers almost always use the plural to show that they are looking at many instances over time.

小贴士

Look for Verbs

When using 'patterns' to describe data, pair it with verbs like 'emerge', 'discern', or 'identify'. This makes your analysis sound more professional and precise.

Be Specific

Instead of just saying 'patterns', specify the type, such as 'geometric patterns', 'behavioral patterns', or 'weather patterns'. This provides much more clarity to your listener.

Plural for Trends

Always use the plural 'patterns' when you are talking about general trends or observations. The singular 'pattern' is usually reserved for a specific template or one single rule.

Use 'Patterned'

Use the adjective 'patterned' to describe objects that have a design. For example, 'a patterned tie' sounds more natural than 'a tie with a pattern' in many contexts.

Patterns vs. Randomness

Use the word 'patterns' to contrast with 'randomness'. If you want to say something is organized and predictable, say it has a pattern. If it's not, say it's random.

Consumer Patterns

In business, 'consumer patterns' is a powerful phrase. Use it when discussing how people spend money or use products to show you understand market research.

Pattern Recognition

Think of learning a language as 'pattern recognition'. If you can see the patterns in how sentences are built, you will learn much faster than by just memorizing words.

Break the Pattern

Use the phrase 'break the pattern' when you want to describe making a significant change in your life or in a story. it's a very evocative and common idiom.

Dark Patterns

If you work in tech or design, learn about 'dark patterns'. It's a modern and important term for unethical user interface designs that everyone should know.

Nature's Patterns

Practice describing patterns in nature, like the veins in a leaf or the ripples in water. This is a great way to build your descriptive vocabulary in English.

记住它

记忆技巧

Think of a PATtern as something that is re-PAT-ed (repeated). The 'PAT' in the beginning can remind you of a 'path' that you follow over and over.

视觉联想

Imagine a checkerboard or a zebra's stripes. These are clear, visual examples of patterns that repeat in a predictable way.

Word Web

Design Repeat Habit Trend Template Sequence Regularity Symmetry

挑战

Look around your room right now and find three different patterns. Describe them using the word 'patterns' in a complete sentence.

词源

The word 'pattern' comes from the Middle English 'patron', which meant a model or an example to be followed. This, in turn, came from the Old French 'patron', which was derived from the Latin 'patronus', meaning a protector or a father-like figure. In the 16th century, the spelling and meaning began to diverge from 'patron' to 'pattern' to specifically denote a model or design.

原始含义: A model, example, or archetype to be imitated.

Indo-European (Latin -> French -> English)

文化背景

Be careful when using 'patterns' to describe groups of people, as it can sometimes lead to overgeneralization or stereotyping.

In English-speaking countries, 'patterns' is a very common word in both academic and casual conversation, often used to sound more analytical.

The Pattern Seekers by Simon Baron-Cohen (a book about autism and invention). Patterns (a famous 1955 TV play and later a movie about corporate life). Pattern Recognition by William Gibson (a famous science fiction novel).

在生活中练习

真实语境

Fashion and Design

  • Floral patterns
  • Geometric patterns
  • Clashing patterns
  • Subtle patterns

Science and Nature

  • Weather patterns
  • Migration patterns
  • Growth patterns
  • DNA patterns

Psychology and Behavior

  • Behavioral patterns
  • Sleep patterns
  • Thought patterns
  • Habitual patterns

Business and Data

  • Consumer patterns
  • Spending patterns
  • Market patterns
  • Data patterns

Mathematics and Logic

  • Number patterns
  • Logical patterns
  • Repeating patterns
  • Complex patterns

对话开场白

"Have you noticed any interesting patterns in the way people use social media lately?"

"What kind of patterns do you like to have on your clothes or in your home decor?"

"Do you think it's easy or hard to break old patterns of behavior?"

"Have you ever noticed a pattern in your own dreams or sleep?"

"How do you think recognizing patterns helps scientists understand the world better?"

日记主题

Describe a recurring pattern in your daily routine and how it affects your productivity.

Think about a time you noticed a pattern in someone's behavior. What did it tell you about them?

Write about the patterns you see in nature during your favorite season.

Reflect on a pattern of thought that you would like to change. Why is it difficult to break?

Discuss the importance of patterns in your favorite type of music or art.

常见问题

10 个问题

A design is a broad term for the way something is planned or how it looks. A pattern is a specific type of design that involves repetition. For example, a single drawing of a cat is a design, but a wallpaper covered in many identical cats is a pattern. Patterns are predictable and recurring, whereas designs can be unique and non-repeating.

Yes, 'pattern' can be used as a verb, though it is less common than the noun. As a verb, it means to model something after something else or to decorate something with a pattern. For example, 'The new law was patterned after an existing one in another country.' In this case, it means the new law followed the structure of the old one.

A 'holding pattern' is an idiom that refers to a state of waiting where no progress is being made. It comes from aviation, where a plane flies in a circle while waiting for permission to land. In daily life, you might say a project is in a holding pattern if you are waiting for a decision before you can continue working on it.

In a professional setting, 'patterns' is often used to describe trends in data or behavior. You might talk about 'market patterns,' 'consumer buying patterns,' or 'patterns of productivity.' Using the word suggests that you have analyzed information and found a logical, repeating connection that can be used to make decisions or predictions.

No, it is not always plural, but it is very common in the plural when talking about general trends or multiple designs. You use the singular 'pattern' when referring to one specific template (like a sewing pattern) or one specific instance of regularity (like a number pattern). For example, 'I see a pattern here' refers to one specific observation.

'Dark patterns' are deceptive user interface designs used on websites and apps to trick users into doing things they didn't mean to do, such as signing up for a subscription or buying insurance. They are called 'patterns' because they are recurring design tricks that exploit human psychology. They are widely criticized for being unethical and manipulative.

A habit is a specific type of behavioral pattern. While a habit is something an individual person does regularly (like biting their nails), a pattern is a broader term that can apply to anything that repeats, including weather, data, or visual designs. You can say someone has a 'pattern of habits,' meaning their various habits follow a predictable structure.

Pattern recognition is the ability of the brain or a computer to identify regularities in data. For humans, it's how we recognize faces or understand language. In computer science, it is a branch of machine learning where algorithms are trained to find patterns in large amounts of information, such as identifying objects in photos or predicting stock market moves.

Yes, in the context of sewing, knitting, or manufacturing, a 'pattern' is a physical object, usually made of paper or plastic, that serves as a template. You place the pattern on your material to show you where to cut or how to build the item. In this sense, the pattern is a tool used to ensure that the final product is made correctly.

To describe complex patterns, you can use adjectives like 'intricate,' 'elaborate,' 'sophisticated,' or 'convoluted.' You can also describe what the pattern is made of, such as 'geometric patterns,' 'floral patterns,' or 'abstract patterns.' If the pattern is hard to see, you might call it 'subtle' or 'faint.' If it is very clear, you might call it 'bold' or 'distinct.'

自我测试 200 个问题

writing

Describe a pattern you see on a piece of clothing you own.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Explain your daily routine using the word 'patterns'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write a short paragraph about the importance of weather patterns.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Discuss a behavioral pattern you would like to change and why.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Analyze the patterns of social media usage in your country.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Describe a geometric pattern you find beautiful.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

How do patterns help us understand history?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write a sentence using 'patterns' as a verb.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

What are the benefits of recognizing patterns in data?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Describe the patterns found in a natural landscape.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Explain the concept of 'dark patterns' to a friend.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

How do migration patterns affect the environment?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write a dialogue between two people noticing a pattern in a crime.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Describe the patterns of a favorite song's rhythm.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

What patterns do you notice in the way you learn English?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Reflect on the 'patterns of life' in your hometown.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Describe a sewing or knitting pattern you have used.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

How do patterns of consumption affect climate change?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write about a time you broke a long-standing pattern.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Discuss the use of patterns in traditional art.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Describe a pattern you see in the room right now.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Talk about your daily patterns for 1 minute.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Discuss the patterns of the weather in your city.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Explain why it's hard to break behavioral patterns.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Debate the ethics of 'dark patterns' in web design.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Describe a beautiful pattern you've seen in nature.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Talk about the patterns of your favorite music.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Explain the concept of 'pattern recognition' to a child.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Discuss the patterns of growth in your career or studies.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Describe the patterns on a famous building.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Talk about a time you noticed a pattern in someone's lies.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Explain how to follow a sewing or building pattern.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Discuss the patterns of migration in your country.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Talk about the 'holding pattern' of your current life goals.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Describe the patterns of a complex game like chess.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Talk about the patterns of the seasons.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Discuss the patterns of consumerism during the holidays.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Explain the importance of patterns in mathematics.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Talk about the patterns of thought that help you succeed.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Describe a pattern you find annoying.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to a description of a patterned shirt and identify it.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to a weather report and identify the mentioned patterns.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to a talk about behavioral patterns and take notes.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to a business presentation on consumer patterns.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to a lecture on pattern recognition in AI.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to a story about someone breaking a pattern.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Identify the word 'patterns' in a fast-paced conversation.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to a description of a geometric pattern and draw it.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to a podcast about 'dark patterns' and summarize it.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to a song and identify the rhythmic patterns.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to a news report on migration patterns.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to an interview with a designer about patterns.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to a child describing a pattern they made.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to a discussion on historical patterns of war.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to a guide on how to read sewing patterns.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
error correction

The shirt has a beautiful patterns of flowers.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案: The shirt has a beautiful pattern of flowers.
error correction

We need to analyze the spending pattern of our clients.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案: We need to analyze the spending patterns of our clients.
error correction

I noticed a pattern on the data.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案: I noticed a pattern in the data.
error correction

He is trying to break his old habits patterns.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案: He is trying to break his old behavioral patterns.
error correction

The weather pattern is very random this year.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案: The weather patterns are very random this year.
error correction

She follow a sewing pattern to make the coat.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案: She followed a sewing pattern to make the coat.
error correction

The software does pattern recognize very well.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案: The software does pattern recognition very well.
error correction

There are many pattern in the stars.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案: There are many patterns in the stars.
error correction

The rug has intricate geometrics patterns.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案: The rug has intricate geometric patterns.
error correction

A pattern is emerging from the researchs.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案: A pattern is emerging from the research.

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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