Word: frame (noun/verb)

Associations

The word "frame" can mean both a physical structure that surrounds something and an action of constructing or creating something.

• Example 1: "She hung the picture in a beautiful wooden frame." (Here, "frame" refers to the physical structure around the picture.)
• Example 2: "He will frame the house before putting on the roof." (In this case, "frame" is used as a verb meaning to build the structure of the house.)
• Example 3: "The movie was framed in a way that emphasized the main character's journey." (Here, "frame" refers to the way the story is presented or structured.)

A well-known synonym for "frame" is "border," but "border" usually refers to the outer edge of something, while "frame" can imply a supportive structure or context, especially in building or artistic terms.

Substitution

Instead of "frame," you could use:

• "border" (focuses on the edge, not the support)
• "structure" (more general, can refer to any building or organization)
• "outline" (emphasizes the shape rather than the support)

Deconstruction

The word "frame" comes from the Old English "framian," which means to help or to make something happen. It has no prefix but can have different meanings based on context. The root word relates to creating or supporting something, whether it's a physical object or an idea.

Inquiry

• Can you think of something you have framed at home? What does it mean to you?
• How might the term "frame" be used in a conversation about art or design?
• In what ways do you think framing an argument can change people's opinions?