Twice

Definition

Twice refers to two times or on two occasions. It can also mean double in quantity or degree.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /twaɪs/
• Respelling: TWICE

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /twaɪs/
• Respelling: TWICE

Etymology

The word "twice" originates from Old English "twīwa," meaning "two times," derived from Proto-Germanic "*twī," meaning "twofold." It shares roots with Old High German "zwiwa" and Old Norse "tvisvar." The modern form evolved in Middle English.

Derivatives

• Twice-born (adjective)
• Twice-told (adjective)
• Twice-as-much (phrase)
• Twicely (adverb, rare)
• Twiceness (noun, rare)

Synonyms

• Double
• Twofold
• Repeatedly

Antonyms

• Once
• None
• None

Usage

The adverb "twice" is used to indicate repetition or doubling. For example, "I called him twice but got no answer." It can also describe an increase, e.g., "This recipe requires twice as much sugar as the original."

Related Terms

• Once: Refers to one time.
• Thrice: Refers to three times (archaic or literary).
• Double: Refers to two times in quantity or degree.

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• On two occasions or two times: Refers to something occurring or being done twice.
  • Example: "She read the book twice to understand it better."
• In double the quantity or degree: Refers to an amount or extent that is twice as much.
  • Example: "The new model is twice as fast as the previous one."