Langimage
English

affairs

|af/fairs|

B2

🇺🇸

/əˈfɛrz/

🇬🇧

/əˈfeəz/

(affair)

matters of concern

Base FormPlural
affairaffairs
Etymology
Etymology Information

'affair' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'afaire,' where 'a-' meant 'to' and 'faire' meant 'do or make.'

Historical Evolution

'afaire' transformed into the Middle English word 'affere,' and eventually became the modern English word 'affair.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to do or make something,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'matters of concern or interest.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

matters of personal or public interest or concern.

The government is involved in international affairs.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a romantic or sexual relationship, typically one that is secret or illicit.

He had an affair with his colleague.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35