What is “Embrace”?
Definition & Pronunciation
In Simple Words:
To embrace is to hug someone or to gladly accept something new.
Pronunciation
- /ɪmˈbreɪs/
- Spoken: “im-brace”
Grammatical Formation
- Part of Speech: Verb, Noun
- Verb:“They embraced before saying goodbye.”
- Noun:“Their embrace lasted a long time.”
- Past Tense: embraced
- Present Participle: embracing
Synonyms
Antonyms
reject, resist, exclude, avoid, let go
Related Terms
- Hug – physical affection
- Accept – to take in willingly
- Affection – feelings of love or care
- Physical touch – general term for contact that expresses emotion
Common Collocations
- warm embrace
- emotional embrace
- tight embrace
- embrace change
- embrace new ideas
- embrace someone lovingly
Idiomatic Usage & Expressions
- “Embrace the moment” – to fully enjoy the present
“Instead of worrying, she embraced the moment.” - “Embrace change” – to accept new things or situations
“We must embrace change to grow.” - “Open arms” – a welcoming embrace
“She greeted them with open arms.”
Sample Sentences
- “He embraced his sister after returning from war.”
- “The teacher encouraged students to embrace new ideas.”
- “In her embrace, the child felt safe and loved.”
- “They embraced at the airport after years apart.”
- “She learned to embrace uncertainty with courage.”
Does “Embrace” Have Any Relationship to Sexuality?
Yes, but not always.
- Primary use: Most embraces are non-sexual and are used to show affection, comfort, or support.
- Romantic or sexual connotation: In intimate or romantic settings, an embrace may have a sexual undertone, especially if prolonged, passionate, or part of physical closeness. However, context defines this.
Types of Embrace:
- Friendly embrace: Between friends or family, purely affectionate
- Comforting embrace: For emotional support
- Romantic embrace: Closer, often paired with eye contact or kissing
- Sensual embrace: May involve passion or intimacy
Conclusion:
The word “embrace” is versatile—it can refer to a simple hug, emotional acceptance, or romantic closeness. While it can carry sexual undertones in some settings, it is not inherently sexual.