English Reference
verb

create

v.
US /kɹiˈeɪt/ UK /kɹiːˈeɪt/ cre·ate UK spelling created, creates

  1. 01 A1 Beginner General-service

    to make something happen or exist for the first time.

    to bring something into existence through imaginative or physical effort.

    Simple

    The artist used recycled materials to create a beautiful sculpture for the park.

    In context

    The software developer aimed to create an intuitive interface that would simplify complex data management for non-technical users.

  2. 02 A2 Elementary General-service

    to cause a specific feeling, situation, or problem.

    to occasion or bring about a particular state of affairs or emotional response.

    Simple

    The new road rules might create some confusion for drivers at first.

    In context

    The sudden withdrawal of funding is likely to create significant challenges for the research team over the coming months.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Formal Law

    to give someone a special title or rank, like making someone a lord.

    to invest a person with a new rank, title, or status, particularly within a peerage or formal hierarchy.

    Simple

    The King decided to create her a duchess for her years of service.

    In context

    In recognition of his diplomatic achievements, the monarch chose to create him a life peer, granting him a seat in the upper house.

  4. 04 C2 Proficiency British EnglishInformal

    to complain loudly or make a big scene about something.

    to behave in an agitated or complaining manner; to make a scene.

    Simple

    The customer started creating when he was told the kitchen was closed.

    In context

    There is no need to start creating just because the delivery is five minutes late.

    Usage

    Often used as an intransitive verb in British colloquial contexts.

Usage create new · creates a space · create a different


From Middle English createn, from Latin creātus, the perfect passive participle of creō, see -ate (verb-forming suffix). In this sense, mostly displaced Old English wyrċan (whence Modern English work) and ġesċieppan (whence Modern English shape).

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin creātus
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Very common
Updated