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Semifinal - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A semifinal is a stage in a competition that comes before the final, where the winners advance to compete for the championship. It narrows down the top contenders.

semifinal

/ˌsɛmiˈfaɪnəl/ /ˌsɛmɪˈfaɪnəl/

Definition:

A match or round preceding the final in a competition, determining finalists.

Synonyms:

penultimate round, last four, quarterfinal (context-dependent), playoff

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

final, preliminary round

Common Collocations:

reach the semifinal, semifinal match, semifinal stage, advance to the semifinal

Derivatives:

semifinalist, semifinals

Usage Tips:

Use "semifinal" for sports or competitions; it refers to one of the last two rounds before the final.

Common Phrases:

battle of the semifinals, semifinal showdown, road to the semifinals

Etymology:

From Latin "semi-" (half) and "finalis" (final), meaning a stage before the final.

Examples:

  • 1. The team won their semifinal match convincingly.
  • 2. She advanced to the semifinals after a tough quarterfinal game.
  • 3. The tournament’s semifinal will be held next weekend.
  • 4. They lost in the semifinal but still celebrated their progress.

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