dawn
Dawn is the time of day when light first appears in the sky before the sun rises. It marks the transition from night to morning and is often associated with the beginning of a new day.
Examples
3 of 5The birds began to sing at dawn.
The birds started their songs at the very beginning of the day.
The expedition is scheduled to depart at the break of dawn.
The group is planned to leave as soon as the first light appears.
I've been awake since dawn, so I'm really tired.
I have been up since very early this morning, so I feel sleepy.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the 'D' in Dawn for 'Day starts'. Dawn is when the Day begins.
Quick Quiz
The farmer wakes up every day at ______ to feed the animals.
Correct!
The correct answer is: dawn
Examples
The birds began to sing at dawn.
everydayThe birds started their songs at the very beginning of the day.
The expedition is scheduled to depart at the break of dawn.
formalThe group is planned to leave as soon as the first light appears.
I've been awake since dawn, so I'm really tired.
informalI have been up since very early this morning, so I feel sleepy.
Observations were recorded daily from dawn until midday.
academicThe researchers took notes every day from first light until noon.
The logistics team must ensure all deliveries arrive by dawn.
businessThe delivery staff needs to make sure items get there by early morning.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
The dawn of a new era
The beginning of a new period in history
At the crack of dawn
Very early in the morning
It dawned on me
I suddenly understood something
Often Confused With
Dawn is the first appearance of light, whereas sunrise is when the sun actually crosses the horizon.
Down is a direction or movement toward the ground, while dawn is a time of day.
Usage Notes
Dawn is primarily used as a noun to describe a specific time. When used as a verb, it often means to begin to become light or to suddenly become clear to someone's mind.
Common Mistakes
Learners often say 'in the dawn,' but the correct preposition is usually 'at dawn.' Also, do not confuse the pronunciation with the word 'down'.
Memory Tip
Think of the 'D' in Dawn for 'Day starts'. Dawn is when the Day begins.
Word Origin
From the Old English 'dagung', which literally means the 'becoming of day'.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In many cultures, dawn is a symbol of hope, rebirth, and the opportunity for a fresh start.
Quick Quiz
The farmer wakes up every day at ______ to feed the animals.
Correct!
The correct answer is: dawn
Related Grammar Rules
Related Vocabulary
More Weather words
windy
A1Windy is an adjective used to describe weather conditions where there is a lot of strong, moving air. It characterizes a day or a place where the wind is blowing harder than usual, often making it feel colder or causing objects to move.
foggy
A1Foggy is an adjective used to describe weather where there is a thick cloud of tiny water droplets near the ground. It makes it very difficult to see things that are far away or even close by.
stormy
A1Describes weather that is characterized by strong winds, heavy rain, and often thunder or lightning. It can also refer to a situation or relationship marked by strong conflict or angry arguments.
overcast
A1An overcast is a condition where the entire sky is covered with clouds and no sun can be seen. It describes a grey and dull sky that often happens before rain or during cold days.
cool
A1Describes a temperature that is moderately cold, typically in a way that is pleasant or refreshing. It is used to describe weather that is neither hot nor very cold, often requiring a light jacket.
freezing
A1Freezing refers to the temperature at which water turns into ice, which is 0°C or 32°F. It describes the process or the state of the weather when it is cold enough for liquid to become solid.
humid
A1Humid describes air that feels wet, damp, and sticky because it contains a lot of water vapor. It is often used to describe hot weather that makes you feel sweaty.
wet
A1Describes something that is covered in or full of water or another liquid. In the context of weather, it refers to a day or period when it is raining.
mild
A1Mild describes weather that is warmer than usual for a specific time of year, especially in winter or autumn. It means the temperature is moderate and pleasant, rather than being very cold or freezing.
rain
A1Rain is water that falls from clouds in the sky in small drops. It is a natural weather event that provides water for plants and fills rivers and lakes.
Comments (0)
Login to CommentStart learning languages for free
Start Learning Free