Definition

Noun: A small card, typically made of paper or cardboard, used as a learning aid. One side contains a question, word, number, or picture, and the other side contains the corresponding answer, definition, translation, or explanation. It is designed to be shown briefly ("flashed") to a learner to test or reinforce memory.

Usage

Flash cards are used for memorization and self-testing. A teacher, study partner, or the learner themselves holds up a card, views the prompt side, and then attempts to recall the information on the reverse side before checking the answer.

Examples

• The teacher used flash cards to drill the new vocabulary words.
• I made a set of flash cards to study for the biology exam.
• For language learning, a flash card might have the word "house" on one side and a picture or translation on the other.
• The child practiced arithmetic with number flash cards.

Advanced Usage

• Digital/Electronic Flash Cards: Software or app-based versions of traditional flash cards that often use spaced repetition algorithms to optimize learning.
  • Many students now use digital flash cards on their phones for convenient studying.

Variants and Related Words

• Flashcard (Noun): A common alternative spelling, written as one word.
  • "Flashcard" and "flash card" mean the same thing.
• Index Card (Noun): A similar piece of card stock, often used to make homemade flash cards, but also used for general notes and filing.

Synonyms

• Study card
• Memorization card
• Drill card

Related Idioms & Phrases

• To drill with flash cards: To practice intensively using flash cards.
  • She drilled with flash cards until she knew all the state capitals.

Noun

1. a card with words or numbers or pictures that is flashed to a class by the teacher