This month’s One Word challenge is below.
TWINS AND OPPOSITES
Let’s take a closer look at your One Word for any hidden jewels. Here are three suggestions to try.
1. DEFINE IT
Look up your word in the dictionary. Does it have more than one meaning? How many of its meanings are you using for your practice this year? Which meaning is most applicable to you?
Teach
verb (used with object), taught, teach·ing.
to impart knowledge of or skill in; give instruction in: She teaches mathematics.
to impart knowledge or skill to; give instruction to: He teaches a large class.
verb (used without object), taught, teach·ing.
to impart knowledge or skill; give instruction.
noun
Informal. teacher.
Learn
verb (used with object), learned [lurnd] or learnt [lurnt], learn·ing [lur-ning].
to acquire knowledge of or skill in by study, instruction, or experience: to learn French; to learn to ski.
to become informed of or acquainted with; ascertain: to learn the truth.
to memorize: He learned the poem so he could recite it at the dinner.
to gain (a habit, mannerism, etc.) by experience, exposure to example, or the like; acquire: She learned patience from her father.
SEE MORE
verb (used without object), learned [lurnd] or learnt [lurnt], learn·ing [lur-ning].
to acquire knowledge or skill: to learn rapidly.
to become informed (usually followed by of): to learn of an accident.
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As I look over the definitions of teach and learn I realize that the two-pronged approach has already helped me to embody the plans God has for me in 2023. I teach PreK during the day and am going to school at night. Only God knew that this would be my path at this stage of my life.
2. SAME AS
List some of your word’s synonyms. If you had to choose one of these as a backup word for this year, which would you choose? Why?
Teach
- advise
- coach
- demonstrate
- develop
- direct
- explain
- instruct
- lecture
- prepare
- show
- train
- tutor
- brainwash
- brief
- catechize
- communicate
- cram
- discipline
- drill
- edify
- enlighten
- exercise
- expound
- fit
- form
- ground
- guide
- illustrate
- imbue
- impart
- implant
- inculcate
- indoctrinate
- inform
- initiate
- interpret
- nurture
- profess
- rear
- school
- sharpen
- break in
- give instruction
- give lessons
- give the facts
- improve mind
- open eyes
- polish up
- pound into
- show the ropes
See also synonyms for: taught / teaches / teaching
Learn
- determine
- enroll
- gain
- get
- grasp
- master
- pick up
- read
- receive
- review
- study
- apprentice
- attain
- con
- cram
- grind
- imbibe
- lucubrate
- matriculate
- memorize
- peruse
- prepare
- be taught
- be trained
- become able
- become versed
- brush up on
- burn midnight oil
- commit to memory
- crack the books
- drink in
- get down pat
- get the hang of
- get the knack of
- improve mind
- major in
- minor in
- pore over
- soak up
- specialize in
- take course
- take in
- train in
- wade through
See also synonyms for: learned / learning / learnt / relearn
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My alternate word for teach would be enlighten or nurture.
My alternate word for learn would be gain.
Putting both ideas together illustrates the win-win potential of the path I am on.
3. OPPOSITE OF
List some of your word’s antonyms. Seeing what your word does NOT mean might help you understand what it does mean. Any insights from its opposite?
Teach
Learn
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What do you notice about the lists above? I see the heartbreak and sadness that comes with failure. I am more determined than ever to do whatever it takes to both teach and learn all the things God has for me in 2023.
Do you have a WOTY? How is God using it to engage with you in new & exciting ways?
I used Dictionary.com and Thesaurus.com

This is so thorough and I am challenged to put my own meager efforts into a bit more business-like form!
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We all have our own way of approaching things. that is what makes this community so amazing. What we learn from others makes each of us better!
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Fun way to gather more insight into the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
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Yes, it is!
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Great work, Barb-you are a woman after my heart with all of the geeky wordsmithing!
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I will admit, Donna, that I love thesaurus.com. It is one of the most used tools in my writing arsenal.
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Love the “win-wiin potential of the path I’m on”. enjoyed your inspirational poster too.
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Thank you.
The scripture graphic was created by my friend Vanessa who blogs at https://braveblessedandbeautiful.com/
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FROM JOANNA VIOLA —
RE: Your One Word Post for March >>> I am so sorry that I am having an issue yet leaving comments on a few blogs. But I so want to comment and so here I am 🙂
This was put together as a true learner and teacher. You made me realize again that we must first be a learner before we can be a teacher. May God bless your efforts to both as a student and teacher.
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I always appreciate the effort you go to, in order to encourage me. You are a blessing!
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It’s such a God-ordained thing for you to be teaching/learning at the same time! Beautiful, Barb. I appreciate all you share about your words and how the Lord is using them this year, day and night!
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I appreciate your input, Lisa. I hope to get back to more frequent blogging this summer when things I’m only taking one class.
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Thank you.
The scripture graphic was created by my friend Vanessa who blogs at https://braveblessedandbeautiful.com/
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I love the idea of your double-pronged approach to your Word of the Year. It speaks to me as I facilitate a bible study class, and as I work hard to be a lifelong learner in order to lead my class. One of the reasons I teach is to encourage me to keep learning.
And yes, God knew what you’d be doing this year and led you into your choices. He is good like that!
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Yes, yes HE is!!
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What a thorough study of your word. May itncontinue to bless you!
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Thank you, Jean 😉
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I can’t wait to do these exercises with my word!
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I look forward to your results.
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