express
ihk-SPREHS
Express (verb) means to communicate a thought, feeling, or idea in words or actions. Example: “He struggled to express how grateful he felt.”
verb
1
To communicate a thought, feeling, or idea in words or actions.
"He struggled to express how grateful he felt."
"The painting expresses a deep sense of loss."
"Children often express their feelings through drawing rather than words."
adjective
1
Fast and direct, especially referring to transport that skips stops.
"We caught the express train and saved twenty minutes."
"The express bus to the airport only stops twice along the way."
"Take the express service if you are in a hurry to reach the city."
2
Clearly and specifically stated, rather than implied.
"She gave her express permission for the photo to be used."
"The teacher's express wish was that nobody should leave the room early."
"It was his express purpose to surprise his sister on her birthday."
noun
1
A fast, direct delivery or transport service.
"The package arrived overnight by express."
"If you need the letter there by morning, send it express."
"We paid extra to have the parcel go by express."
How to use express
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo put feelings or ideas into words or actions — or, as an adjective, something fast, direct, and clearly stated.
Common pairings
express your feelings
express train
express permission
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Word forms
- Plural
- expresses
- Third person singular
- expresses
- Past tense
- expressed
- Comparative
- more express
- Superlative
- most express
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He struggled to _____ how grateful he felt.
Etymology
From French exprès, from Latin expressus, "clearly stated" — the past participle of exprimere, "to press out".
Synonyms
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Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “express” mean?
The word “express” means to communicate a thought, feeling, or idea in words or actions. In plain terms, to put feelings or ideas into words or actions — or, as an adjective, something fast, direct, and clearly stated.
How do you pronounce “express”?
“Express” is pronounced ihk-SPREHS (/ɪkˈspɹɛs/ in IPA).
How do you use “express” in a sentence?
Here is “express” used in a sentence: “He struggled to express how grateful he felt.”
What part of speech is “express”?
Depending on how it is used, “express” can be a verb, an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “express” come from?
The word “express” comes from Latin. From French exprès, from Latin expressus, "clearly stated" — the past participle of exprimere, "to press out".
Is “express” a common word?
“Express” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “express” have?
“Express” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to communicate a thought, feeling, or idea in words or actions.
What is the difference between express and suppress?
To express a feeling is to let it out — to communicate it through words, actions, or expressions. To suppress it is the opposite: to hold it back or keep it hidden. Someone might express joy with a smile or suppress anger to stay calm. Expressing releases what is inside; suppressing conceals it.
What is an example of expressing yourself?
You express yourself whenever you show what you think or feel. Telling a friend you're grateful, writing a poem, painting, choosing certain clothes, or even a hug all count. Expression can be verbal or wordless — the point is that an inner thought or emotion is made visible to others through some outward form.
Why is it important to express your feelings?
Putting feelings into words or actions helps you process them, reduces stress, and lets others understand and support you. Bottled-up emotions can build into anxiety or resentment, while healthy expression strengthens relationships and clears the air. Expressing yourself is a key part of good communication and emotional well-being.
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