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98 Cards in this Set
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- Back
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fault
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1fault /ˈfɑːlt/ noun, pl faults
1 [count] a : a bad quality or part of someone's character : a weakness in character • He loved her despite her many faults. [=failings] • Lack of courage is his worst fault. • In spite of her faults, she's a loyal friend. = For all her faults, she's a loyal friend. b : a problem or bad part that prevents something from being perfect : a flaw or defect • We discussed the book's strengths and faults. [=weaknesses] • If the book has a fault, it's that it's too long. 2 [noncount] : responsibility for a problem, mistake, bad situation, etc. • The accident was not her fault. [=she did not cause the accident; she should not be blamed for the accident] • It's all my fault. [=I am responsible] • It's your own fault you missed that bus. • Through no fault of his own, he won't be able to attend the meeting. 3 [count] tennis : a mistake that results in a bad serve • She committed too many faults to win the match. - see also double fault 4 [count] geology : a break in the Earth's crust • Frequent earthquakes have occurred along the San Andreas Fault. at fault: deserving blame for something bad : responsible • She's not at fault for the accident. • It will be difficult to determine who's really at fault. find fault - see 1find to a fault: to a great or excessive degree • generous to a fault [=very generous or too generous] • honest to a fault - fault·less /ˈfɑːltləs/ adj • a faultless [=perfect, flawless] performance - fault·less·ly adv • She performed faultlessly. - fault·less·ness noun [noncount] |
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blame
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1blame /ˈbleɪm/ verb blames; blamed; blam·ing[+ obj] : to say or think that a person or thing is responsible for something bad that has happened
• Don't blame me. You are responsible for your own problems. • Don't blame me for your problems. = Don't blame your problems on me. • The company blames the poor economy for its financial losses. = The company blames its financial losses on the poor economy. • My father always blames everything on me. • I blame the poor harvest on the weather. blame the messenger - see messenger have yourself to blame ✦If you have only yourself to blame or have no one to blame but yourself, then something is your fault and nobody else's. • She has only herself to blame for her money problems. not blame ✦If you say that you wouldn't/don't/can't blame someone or can hardly blame someone, you think that person has a good reason for doing something. • After the way he treated you, I wouldn't blame you [=I would completely understand] if you never spoke to him again. • You can hardly blame her for being angry. to blame: responsible for something bad : deserving to be blamed for something. • Who's to blame for these problems? • He says he's not to blame for the delays. [=he did not cause the delays] • Poor communication is at least partly to blame. [=at fault] |
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put away
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to put in the designed place for strong.
to discard. to save, especially for later use |
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take out
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1. : to remove from within (as from a receptacle, a place, enclosing bounds or limits, a set or composite)
had his tonsils taken out took his pen out and signed on the spot took the melodrama out of the rescue scenes and substituted pathos — M.W.Fishwick nurse took out the supper trays and the lights in the ward were turned off — Carson McCullers as a. (1) : deduct , separate took his commission out before turning over the proceeds (2) : except , exclude , omit 21 working days, taking out weekends and holidays (3) : withdraw , withhold some land will be taken out of spring wheat and flaxseed — Successful Farming b. : to draw out by cleansing a preparation for taking stains out c. : to find release for : give vent to : expend — usually used with on take out their resentments on one another — J.W.Aldridge take out their wanderlust on geographic magazines — T.H.Robsjohn-Gibbings d. : to get rid of or put an end to (as an obstacle, an opponent) : eliminate second ball takes out all the remaining pins — Beginning Bowling main job was to take out enemy airfields — Walter Millis needed to have some of the conceit taken out of him 2. obsolete : copy 3. : to lead or carry forth (as into the open air, from a private to a public place, into society) took the dog out for a run mother liked to be taken out for dinner occasionally perfect weather for taking the baby out prettiest girl he had ever taken out on the dance floor as a. : escort not a puzzle to her that men seldom wanted to take her out — Aurelia Levi b. : conduct the next year he took out his first road company — W.B.Shaw 4. : to take as an equivalent : obtain or receive the value of in another form — used with in part of the mill-workers' pay is taken out in houses — Sinclair Lewis took what remained of the debt out in goods 5. a. : to obtain (as by application) from the proper authority take out a summons take out a charter forgot to take a new dog license out new Socialist peers have followed tradition and taken out coats of arms — New York Herald Tribune applied to take out citizenship b. : to arrange for (insurance) your age at the time you take out your annuity — advt 6. : to overcall (as one's bridge partner or his bid) in a denomination that is different or to bid over (as a double or redouble by partner) when the intervening opponent has passed, doubled, or redoubled intransitive verb : to start on a course : set out : strike out wagons were taking out, some of them to face … miles of country road — William Faulkner saw the tracers of his machine guns taking out after them — Ira Wolfert trail took out across a long undulating grass prairie — H.L.Davis take out for home • - take it out on |
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garbage
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gar·bage /ˈgɑɚbɪʤ/ noun[noncount]
1 chiefly US a : things that are no longer useful or wanted and that have been thrown out : trash • The park was littered with garbage. • Please take out the garbage. • Raccoons were going through the garbage. - often used to refer specifically to food waste that is being thrown out • the smell of rotting garbage b : a container where people put things that are being thrown out • Throw the can in the garbage. 2 informal : something that is worthless, unimportant, or of poor quality • Maybe you should read a book instead of watching that garbage [=rubbish] on TV. 3 informal : foolish or untrue words or ideas : nonsense • If you ask me, what he said is a bunch/load of garbage. |
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wipe
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1wipe /ˈwaɪp/ verb wipes; wiped; wip·ing[+ obj]
1 : to clean or dry (something) by using a towel, your hand, etc. • Would you wipe the dishes? • She wiped her eyes with a tissue. 2 : to remove (something) by rubbing • Wipe your tears. • We were wiping the spots from the wine glasses. - often used figuratively • She has wiped [=erased] the entire conversation from her mind. [=she has forgotten the entire conversation] • The explosion wiped the island off the map. [=it completely destroyed the island] • Their enemies have vowed to wipe them off the face of the earth. [=to destroy them completely; to annihilate them] 3 : to move (something) over a surface • He wiped his hand across his forehead. 4 chiefly Brit : to completely remove recorded material from (a tape or disk) • You can wipe [=erase] the tape/disk and use it again. wipe away [phrasal verb]wipe (something) away or wipe away (something) : to remove (something) by rubbing • Wipe away grease with our all-purpose cleaner. • He wiped her tears away. - often used figuratively • You cannot simply wipe away the history of this country. wipe down [phrasal verb]wipe (something) down or wipe down (something) : to clean (a surface) by rubbing it with a cloth • He wiped down the counters with a wet cloth. • I wiped the car down with a towel. wipe off [phrasal verb] 1 wipe (someone or something) off or wipe off (someone or something) : to clean (someone or something) by using a towel, your hand, etc. • I wiped off the baby and took him out of the high chair. • She wiped the counters off. 2 wipe (something) off or wipe off (something) : to remove (something) by rubbing • I wiped the food off the baby's face. • She wiped off the oil from the counter. - often used figuratively in British English • More than a billion pounds have been wiped off share prices. [=the value of share prices has been reduced by more than a billion pounds] wipe out [phrasal verb] 1 US informal : to fall down violently especially when riding a bicycle, surfing, skiing, etc. • The cyclist wiped out coming around the curve. - see also wipeout 2 wipe (someone or something) out or wipe out (someone or something) : to kill or destroy (someone or something) completely • Drought wiped out our crops this year. • Doctors think they can wipe out the disease. • One bad investment could wipe out your life savings. 3 wipe (someone) out : to make (someone) very tired • That game completely wiped me out. - see also wiped out wipe (something) clean 1 : to clean (something) by wiping • I wiped the table clean. 2 : to completely remove something from (something) : to remove everything from (something) - usually used as (be) wiped clean • The computer's hard drive has been wiped clean. • After the accident, his memory of the day was wiped clean. [=he could not remember anything about the day] wipe that/the smile/smirk/grin off someone's faceinformal : to stop smiling or to make someone stop smiling or feeling happy • She couldn't wipe the smile off her face. [=she couldn't stop smiling] • He thinks he's won, but if I get my hands on him, I'll wipe that smile off his face! - often used to tell someone in an angry way to stop smiling • Wipe that smile off your face! This isn't a joke! wipe the floor withinformal : to beat or defeat (someone or something) completely • I thought I could beat him, but he wiped the floor with me. wipe the slate clean: to forget all the things that have happened or been done and start doing something again : to start again from the very beginning • She wishes she could wipe the slate clean and start over in a different career. wipe up [phrasal verb]wipe (something) up or wipe up (something) : to use a cloth to remove (something) from a surface • Will you wipe up that spill? • I wiped the milk up off the floor. |
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sweat
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1sweat /ˈswɛt/ verb sweats; sweat or sweat·ed; sweat·ing
1 [no obj] : to produce a clear liquid from your skin when you are hot or nervous • He sweats a lot when he exercises. • The dancers were sweating [=(more formally) perspiring] profusely. • (informal) He was sweating like a pig. [=sweating a lot] 2 [no obj] informal : to work very hard • They sweated and saved so their children could go to college. - often + over • She was sweating over her law books all afternoon. • He sweated over the wording of his speech for several days. 3 informal a : to feel worried or nervous about something [no obj] • We'll let them sweat a while longer. - often + over • After they took the test, they were sweating over [=worrying about] their scores. [+ obj] • We'll let them sweat it out for a while longer. b [no obj] : to go through an experience that causes a lot of emotional stress or worry - usually + through • The cops made him sweat through 15 minutes of intense questioning before they let him go. • I sweated [=struggled] through geometry in high school. c [+ obj] US : to worry or be nervous about (something) • “The car won't start—what are we going to do?” “Don't sweat it. I know all about fixing cars.” • Don't sweat the small stuff. [=don't worry about minor things] 4 [no obj] : to produce small drops of liquid on the surface • Cheese sweats during ripening. • A pitcher of ice water sweats on a hot day. 5 [+ obj] chiefly Brit : to cook (something) slowly in a covered pan with a little fat • Sweat sliced onions in a little olive oil until they are soft. sweat blood - see blood sweat bulletsUS informal : to be very nervous or worried • I was sweating bullets while I waited to talk to my boss. sweat off [phrasal verb]sweat off (something) or sweat (something) off : to lose (an amount of weight) by sweating (especially by exercising a lot) • He's trying to sweat off a few more pounds. sweat out [phrasal verb]sweat out (something) or sweat (something) out informal 1 : to wait nervously until the end of (something) • It was a close game, and the fans were really sweating it out at the end. 2 US a : to work hard at (something) • She was sweating it out on the treadmill. [=she was exercising and sweating on the treadmill] b : to get or achieve (something, such as a victory) by working very hard • He managed to sweat out a narrow victory in the semifinals. 3 : to end (an illness) by exercising and sweating • He's trying to sweat out his cold at the gym. |
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evict
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evict /ɪˈvɪkt/ verb evicts; evict·ed; evict·ing[+ obj] : to force (someone) to leave a place
• His landlord has threatened to evict him if he doesn't pay the rent soon. • They were evicted from their apartment. - evic·tion /ɪˈvɪkʃən/ noun, pl -tions [noncount] • He was threatened with eviction for failing to pay the rent. [count] • unlawful evictions |
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the last straw
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a further difficulty or annoyance, typically minor in itself but coming on top of a series of difficulties, that makes a situation unbearable.
"his affair was the last straw" |
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seat
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1seat /ˈsiːt/ noun, pl -seats
1 [count] : something (such as a chair) that you sit on : a place for sitting • There were seats for six people at the table. • an uncomfortable bicycle seat • a car with leather seats • He used the box as a seat. • He couldn't find his seat in the concert hall. • The city recently built a new 1,000-seat theater. • She booked/reserved a seat on the next flight to Rome. • Please have/take a seat. [=please sit down] • The teacher asked us to take our seats. [=sit down in our usual or assigned places] - see picture at bicycle; see also backseat, catbird seat 2 a [count] : the part of a chair or other piece of furniture that a person sits on • The stool's seat is broken. • The chairs have woven seats. b [singular] : the part of a piece of clothing (such as a skirt or pair of pants) that you sit on - + of • You have a tear in the seat of your pants. c [count] somewhat old-fashioned : the part of the body on which you sit • I fell off the horse and had a sore seat [=bottom] for weeks. 3 [count] : an official position within an organization and the right to be present when that organization meets • The Democrats gained two more seats in the last election. • She won a Senate seat. • a seat on the federal court • a seat on the board • (chiefly Brit) He took his seat [=began his official duties as a member] in Parliament. 4 [singular] a : a place or area where a particular activity, function, etc., occurs - + of • The university has been a seat of learning since the Middle Ages. • the part of the brain that is the seat of reasoning b : a place (such as a city) where the people who run a government, religion, etc., are based - + of • the seat of government/power • The Vatican is the seat of the Roman Catholic Church. - see also county seat by the seat of your pants: by using your own judgment and feelings to deal with each new problem or task without planning, preparation, or help from others • He was running the company by the seat of his pants. • We were flying by the seat of our pants when we started our business. - see also seat-of-the-pants get/put bums on seats - see 5bum in the driver's seat - see driver on the edge of your seat - see 1edge |
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drawback
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draw·back /ˈdrɑːˌbæk/ noun, pl -backs[count] : something that causes problems : disadvantage
• The only drawback [=downside] to the plan is that we don't have the time it requires. • The trip sounds great, but cost is a major drawback. |
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detach
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de·tach /dɪˈtæʧ/ verb -tach·es; -tached; -tach·ing
1 : to separate (something) from something larger [+ obj] • Detach the upper part of the form and return it with your payment. • During the accident the trailer was detached from the car. [no obj] • The brush detaches from the vacuum cleaner for easy cleaning. - opposite attach 2 [+ obj] : to separate (yourself) from someone or something • It can be difficult to detach yourself from the chaos of the situation. • She has been trying to detach herself from an abusive relationship. - de·tach·able /dɪˈtæʧəbəl/ adj • The stereo is equipped with detachable speakers. |
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significant
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sig·nif·i·cant /sɪgˈnɪfɪkənt/ adj[more ~; most ~]
1 : large enough to be noticed or have an effect • A significant number of customers complained about the service. • He won a significant amount of money. • There is a significant difference in prices between the two stores. • The study found a statistically significant decrease in symptoms in patients who had taken the drug. • His influence on me was significant. = He had a significant influence on me. 2 : very important • a significant event in the history of our nation • Fish is a significant part of their diet. • It is significant that she never mentioned him. - opposite insignificant 3 : having a special or hidden meaning • He gave us a significant wink/look. • a significant [=suggestive] glance |
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spacious
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spa·cious /ˈspeɪʃəs/ adj[more ~; most ~] : having a large amount of space
• a spacious room/office/house • The dining room is spacious [=roomy] enough to seat our whole family and several guests. - spa·cious·ly adv • a spaciously arranged room - spa·cious·ness noun [noncount] |
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whole
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1whole /ˈhoʊl/ adj
1 a always used before a noun : complete or full : not lacking or leaving out any part • The whole [=entire] family went on the trip. • The doctor assured me that the whole procedure would only take a few minutes. • The whole place was remodeled. It looks great now. • He was out sick for the whole [=entire] week. • It's been a whole week since I've seen him. • I spent the whole summer traveling through Europe. • The whole evening was a great success. • She read the whole book in one day. • I've been waiting my whole life for this. • I felt like the luckiest girl in the whole wide world [=in the world] that day. • They failed to tell us the whole story. [=they failed to tell us everything; they only told us certain things] • It rained the whole time I was there. [=it rained continuously while I was there] • We decided to forget the whole thing. b : having all the parts : not divided or cut into parts or pieces • a whole egg • whole strawberries [=strawberries that are not sliced or cut up] • We cooked a whole chicken. • whole grains • The recipe calls for two whole cloves. [=cloves that haven't been ground] 2 a : great or large in size, extent, etc. • The community center offers a whole range of programs. • The track team took part in a whole series of events. [=in a lot of events] • There's a whole set of criteria to consider. • She owns a whole collection of hats. [=she owns many different hats] b - used for emphasis before a noun • The whole idea is to make things better, not worse. • She missed the whole point of the story. • We weren't quite sure what to make of the whole situation. • He doesn't seem to have a whole lot of [=much] respect for other people's feelings. • Things are looking a whole lot [=much] brighter now. go (the) whole hog - see 1hog out of whole cloth - see cloth the whole enchilada - see enchilada the whole (kit and) caboodle - see caboodle the whole nine yards - see 2yard the whole shebang - see shebang the whole shooting match - see shooting match whole nother - see nother - whole·ness noun [noncount] |
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aspect
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as·pect /ˈæˌspɛkt/ noun, pl -pects
1 [count] : a part of something • Our proposal differs from theirs in one important aspect. [=respect] - usually + of • Their religion affects almost/nearly/virtually every aspect [=facet] of their lives. • Eating healthy foods is only/just one aspect [=part] of a healthy lifestyle. • Nobody has discussed the most important aspect of the problem. • Computers now influence all aspects of American life. 2 formal : the way a person, place, or thing appears [singular] • The old house took on a dark and lonely aspect [=appearance] at night. [noncount] • Their gods are primarily human in aspect. [=they look like humans] 3 [singular] formal : the direction that something (such as a room or building) faces or points towards • The house has a southern aspect. [=a southern exposure; the front of the house faces the south] - sometimes used figuratively • We studied the situation from every aspect. [=angle] 4 grammar : the characteristic of a verb that expresses the way an action happens ✦A verb's aspect shows whether an action happens one time and stops quickly, happens repeatedly, or happens continuously. [count] • The aspect of “sit” in “please sit down now” is different from the aspect of “sitting” in “I was sitting at my desk.” [noncount] • two verb forms differing in aspect |
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afford
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af·ford /əˈfoɚd/ verb -fords; -ford·ed; -ford·ing[+ obj]
1 : to be able to pay for (something) • We were too poor to afford a doctor. • He'll be able to afford a house next year. • Don't spend more than you can afford. • They couldn't afford new coats for the children. - often followed by to + verb • They couldn't afford to buy new coats for the children. • Don't spend more than you can afford to (spend). 2 : to be able to do (something) without having problems or being seriously harmed • We can afford waiting a while longer. - usually followed by to + verb • We can afford to wait a while longer. - usually used in negative constructions • She's already too thin. She can't afford to lose any more weight. = She can ill afford to lose any more weight. 3 formal : to supply or provide (something needed or wanted) to someone • All of the rooms afford views of the lake. • He was afforded the opportunity to work for a judge. - af·ford·abil·i·ty /əˌfordəˈbɪləti/ noun [noncount] • the affordability of health care - af·ford·able /əˈfordəbəl/ adj [more ~; most ~] • a more affordable car • affordable housing [=housing that is not overly expensive] • an affordable price |
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mortgage
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1mort·gage /ˈmoɚgɪʤ/ noun, pl -gag·es[count] : a legal agreement in which a person borrows money to buy property (such as a house) and pays back the money over a period of years
• He will have to take out a mortgage in order to buy the house. • a 30-year mortgage • a $50,000 mortgage • They hope to pay off the mortgage on their home soon. - often used before another noun • a mortgage agreement/banker/lender/loan • Mortgage rates are down. - see also reverse mortgage |
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countryside
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coun·try·side /ˈkʌntriˌsaɪd/ noun[noncount] : land that is away from big towns and cities
• She lives in the countryside. [=country] • We took a long drive through the open countryside. |
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conclusion
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con·clu·sion /kənˈkluːʒən/ noun, pl -sions
1 [count] : a final decision or judgment : an opinion or decision that is formed after a period of thought or research • What is your conclusion? [=what do you conclude?] • The evidence does not support the report's conclusions. • The evidence points/leads to the inescapable conclusion that she was negligent. • The logical/obvious conclusion is that she was negligent. • What led/brought you to that conclusion? • After thinking about it, we came to the conclusion [=we decided] that we shouldn't go. • Scientists haven't yet reached a conclusion [=made a judgment/decision] on/about the causes of this illness. • They haven't yet arrived at a conclusion. • Is it possible to draw conclusions [=make judgments] from this evidence? ✦To jump/leap to conclusions is to make judgments too quickly before knowing all the facts. • The evidence suggests that he's to blame, but let's be careful not to jump to conclusions. He may have a good explanation for what happened. • We should hear his explanation before we jump to the conclusion that he's to blame. 2 [count] : the last part of something : end - usually singular • Many people were upset at the conclusion of the meeting. [=when the meeting concluded/ended] • a satisfactory conclusion to the negotiations • The conclusion of her speech contained some surprising news. • The strike has finally reached its conclusion. [=has finally ended] • At this point, his victory seems to be a foregone conclusion. [=his victory seems certain; there seems to be no doubt that he will win] 3 : the act of concluding or finishing something or the state of being finished [singular] • We had hoped for a quick conclusion of/to the war. [=had hoped that the war would end quickly] • The case was finally brought to a conclusion [=was finally concluded] last week. [noncount] • the conclusion of a business deal • The case was finally brought to conclusion last week. in conclusion - used to introduce the final comments at the end of a speech or a piece of writing • In conclusion, I would like to thank you for inviting me to speak tonight. |
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Probably
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prob·a·bly /ˈprɑːbəbli/ adv: very likely : almost certainly
• It will probably rain today. • They will probably be here soon. • You are probably right. • It was probably the best concert I've ever been to. • There were probably about 150 people at the wedding. • “Are you going to the picnic?” “Probably.” • “Can you finish painting the room today?” “Probably not.” |
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pros and cons
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the various arguments in favour of and against a motion, course of action, etc.
advantages and disadvantages this idiom is taken from the Latin pro for "for" and con for "against" |
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cottage
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cot·tage /ˈkɑːtɪʤ/ noun, pl -tag·es[count] : a small house especially in the country
• We rented a cottage for the weekend. • She owns a cottage at the beach. |
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circumstance
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cir·cum·stance /ˈsɚkəmˌstæns/ noun, pl -stanc·es
1 [count] : a condition or fact that affects a situation • I can't imagine a circumstance in/under which I would do that. - usually plural • If our business is to survive, we must be able to adapt to changing circumstances. • It is impossible under these circumstances to meet our deadline. • Do not, under any circumstances, open that door. = Under no circumstances are you to open that door. [=no matter what happens, do not open that door] • Due to circumstances beyond our control [=things that have happened that we cannot change or influence], the flight is canceled. • There is nothing we can do under the circumstances. [=in this specific situation] • Given the circumstances, I think we did well. [=when you consider how everything went, I think we did well] 2 circumstances [plural] : the way something happens : the specific details of an event • The circumstances of his death are suspicious. 3 : an event or situation that you cannot control [noncount] • She says that her client is a victim of circumstance and should not be blamed for the accident. [plural] • He was a victim of circumstances. 4 circumstances [plural] : the conditions in which someone lives • Their circumstances changed dramatically after she lost her job. • I don't know anything about his financial circumstances. [=about how much money he has] • They have been forced to live in reduced circumstances. [=to live with less money] pomp and circumstance - see pomp |
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typically
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typ·i·cal·ly /ˈtɪpɪkli/ adv[more ~; most ~]
1 : generally or normally - used to say what normally happens • Typically, the members of our staff receive little recognition. • We typically go for coffee after our walk. • These recitals typically [=usually] last one hour. • I typically order the steak when I eat there. 2 : in the usual way - used to describe what is normal or expected of a certain place, person, situation, etc. • Typically, she was late. [=she was late, as she often/usually is] • I tried to get him to talk, but he was typically reluctant to say anything. • They serve typically American food. [=the kind of food that is usual/typical in America] |
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pavement
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pave·ment /ˈpeɪvmənt/ noun, pl -ments
1 [noncount] US : the hard surface of a road, driveway, etc. • He stopped the car just off the pavement. • The summer heat rose off the pavement. 2 [count] Brit : sidewalk hit the pavement - see 1hit pavement café - see café pound the pavement - see 4pound |
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appeal
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1ap·peal /əˈpiːl/ noun, pl -peals
1 [noncount] : a quality that causes people to like someone or something • I can't understand the appeal of skydiving. [=I can't understand why some people like it] • Music never held much appeal [=attraction] for him. • Her jokes are quickly losing their appeal. • The movie has great appeal to/for adults as well as children. [=adults and children like the movie] • the wide/broad/mass/universal appeal of the artist's work - see also sex appeal 2 [count] a : a serious request for help, support, etc. • They made a desperate appeal [=plea, entreaty] for help. • His appeals to his father for money were ignored. • The mayor made an appeal to the people of the city to stay calm. b : an attempt to make someone do or accept something as right or proper by saying things that are directed at a person's feelings, attitudes, etc. - + to • The author makes an appeal to the reader's emotions. • an appeal to reason • an appeal to the intellect c : an organized effort to raise money • We made a donation during the school's annual appeal. • She helped to organize/launch an appeal on behalf of the homeless. 3 : a process in which a decision is studied and accepted or rejected by a higher court or by someone in authority [count] • My lawyer said the court's decision wasn't correct and that we should file for an appeal. • lodge an appeal [noncount] • Her conviction was thrown out on appeal. [=a higher court decided that she should not have been convicted] • The case is currently under appeal. [=the case is currently being reviewed by a higher court] - see also court of appeals |
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along with
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In addition to someone or something; together with someone or something. Jane went to the mall along with David. I ate some chocolates along with some fruit.
See also: along |
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mow
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1mow /ˈmoʊ/ verb mows; mowed; mowed or mown /ˈmoʊn/; mow·ing[+ obj] : to cut (something, such as grass) with a machine or a blade
• mow the grass • mow hay • mow the lawn [=cut the grass that grows on the lawn] mow down [phrasal verb]mow (someone) down or mow down (someone) informal : to kill or knock down (a person or many people) in a sudden and violent way • The soldiers were mowed down by machine guns. • The car mowed down four pedestrians. - mow·er /ˈmowɚ/ noun, pl -ers [count] |
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weed |
1weed /ˈwiːd/ noun, pl weeds 1 [count] : a plant that grows very quickly where it is not wanted and covers or kills more desirable plants • We pulled weeds from the garden. • an invasive weed - see also milkweed, ragweed, seaweed, tumbleweed 2 [noncount] informal : marijuana • They were smoking weed. 3 the weed chiefly Brit informal : cigarettes and other tobacco products • She's trying to give up the weed. [=trying to quit smoking] grow like a weedchiefly US informal : to grow very quickly • Their business is growing like a weed. • Look at you! You're growing like a weed!
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hire
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1hire /ˈhajɚ/ verb hires; hired; hir·ing
1 a chiefly US : to give work or a job to (someone) in exchange for wages or a salary [+ obj] • She had very little office experience, so the company wouldn't hire her. • a hired hand/worker • We hired someone to clean the office once a week. [no obj] • The company isn't hiring right now. b [+ obj] : to use or get the services of (someone) to do a particular job • You should hire [=(more formally) employ] a lawyer to look over the contract. 2 [+ obj] chiefly Brit : to pay to use (something) : rent • hire a hall • a hired car hire out [phrasal verb] 1 hire out (something) or hire (something) out chiefly Brit : to allow someone to use (something) in exchange for money • The hotel hires out [=rents out] boats to guests. 2 hire out or hire (yourself) out US informal : to take a job : to work for wages or a salary • She hired out as a cook. • He's a teacher most of the year, but in the summer he hires himself out as a tour guide. - hiring noun [noncount] • Who's in charge of the hiring and firing of the office staff? • the company's hiring practices |
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cramp
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2cramp verb cramps; cramped; cramp·ing
1 a [+ obj] : to cause (a part of the body) to feel pain because of tight muscles : to cause a cramp in (your hand, foot, etc.) • Writing for such a long time may cramp your hand. b [no obj] : to have a sudden painful tightening of muscles : to experience a cramp or cramps • His leg was cramping so badly he could hardly move it. - often + up • My hand kept cramping up. 2 [+ obj] : to prevent (something) from developing or growing freely • The new regulations may cramp the company's financial growth. 3 [+ obj] : to prevent (someone) from behaving or expressing emotions freely - usually used as (be) cramped • She felt cramped [=hemmed in] by the school's strict regulations. ✦Someone or something that cramps your style prevents you from behaving the way you want. • He's not used to formality and finds that formal settings cramp his style. - cramping noun [noncount] • The medication may cause abdominal cramping. |
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resident
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1resident /ˈrɛzədənt/ noun, pl -dents[count]
1 : someone who lives in a particular place • She is a resident of New York. [=she lives in New York] • apartment residents 2 US : a doctor who is training at a hospital to become a specialist in a particular field of medicine • a first-year resident |
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barbecue
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1bar·be·cue /ˈbɑɚbɪˌkjuː/ noun, pl -cues
1 [count] : a flat metal frame that is used to cook food over hot coals or an open fire • grill a steak on the barbecue 2 [count] : an outdoor meal or party at which food is cooked on a barbecue • We plan to have a barbecue for the whole family. - abbr. BBQ; 3 [noncount] chiefly US informal : food that has been cooked on a barbecue : barbecued food • She invited us over for some beer and barbecue. • He makes a barbecue sauce [=a spicy sauce that is usually eaten with barbecued food] that tastes great with chicken. |
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loose
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1loose /ˈluːs/ adj loos·er; -est
1 : not tightly fastened, attached, or held • a loose tooth • a loose thread • Some of the shingles on the roof were loose. • The rope was tied in a loose knot. • The nails had been pried loose. • Some of the shingles had come/worked loose. • The boat came loose from its moorings and floated out into the harbor. • The ball popped loose from the shortstop's glove. 2 a : not pulled or stretched tight • a loose belt • loose reins on a horse • loose skin b of clothing : not fitting close to your body : not tight • She was wearing a loose dress/skirt. • a loose [=baggy] sweater 3 : not physically held or contained • The dog was wandering loose in the streets. • The lion had somehow gotten/broken loose [=free] from its cage. - see also let loose 1 (below) 4 a : not held together in a solid or tight mass • loose dirt • loose rocks • loose sandy soil b : not held together in a bundle, container, etc. • loose sheets of pages • Loose hairs stuck out from under his cap. • She let her hair hang down loose. • You can buy a bag of potatoes or some loose potatoes. 5 : not stiff or tense : flexible or relaxed • He walked with a loose stride. • loose muscles • I never relaxed that day; I just couldn't get loose. • Runners should warm up for a few minutes to get loose. • I tried to stay loose during the game, but I was too nervous. - see also hang loose (below) 6 : not closely joined or united • Ten advocacy groups from all parts of the country formed a loose alliance/association/coalition to present their shared interests to Congress. 7 a : not exact or precise • a very loose translation • a loose interpretation of the law • This book is only a novel in the loose sense of the word. [=the word “novel” does not usually refer to a book like this; many people would not consider the book a novel] b : not careful in speech : talking too freely • Loose [=careless] talk spread the rumor. • She has a loose tongue. [=she talks too much about things that are private, secret, etc.] 8 sports : not controlled or held by any of the players in a game • a loose ball/puck 9 old-fashioned : not respectable sexually : not decent or moral • He was accused of loose conduct/behavior. • a loose woman • loose morals 10 of solid waste from the body : containing a larger than normal amount of fluid • loose stools also; : producing loose stools • loose bowels • loose bowel movements all hell breaks loose - see hell break loose - see 1break cut loose 1 cut (someone) loose : to stop supporting or employing (someone) • He worked here for a few years but he didn't do a good job, so we finally had to cut him loose. : to end an official relationship or agreement with (someone) • She's been cut loose from her contract. [=the company/organization with whom she had a contract to work has ended the contract] 2 chiefly US informal : to act in a free and relaxed way after behaving in a way that is controlled • I enjoy cutting loose with friends on weekends. hang loosechiefly US informal : to remain calm and relaxed • Just hang loose for a minute. I'll be right back. have a screw loose, have a loose screw - see 1screw let loose 1 let (someone or something) loose or set/turn (someone or something) loose : to allow (someone or something) to move or go freely • He let/set the dogs loose in the courtyard. • cattle let loose to graze on the green fields - often used figuratively • It's the end of the school year, when schools turn students loose on our towns. • a director who's willing to let her actors loose to interpret their roles however they see fit • how to stop the violence that has been let loose [=loosed] on the city 2 : to produce (something, such as a cry) in a sudden and forceful way • The crowd let loose [=let out] an enormous groan when the pass was intercepted. • She let loose (with) a scream. play fast and loose - see 1play - loose·ly adv • The clothes fit loosely. • The term is loosely used by most people. • The rider held the reins loosely as the horse slowed to a walk. • loosely affiliated/allied businesses • The company was loosely organized. • The movie is loosely based on the novel. [=it is based on the novel but many things are different in the movie] - loose·ness noun [noncount] • moral looseness • the looseness of the translation • the looseness of his clothing |
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rough
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1rough /ˈrʌf/ adj rough·er; -est[also more ~; most ~]
1 : having a surface that is not even • rough tree bark • a cat's rough tongue • He trimmed the rough edge of the paper. • We traveled over rough dirt roads. • They hiked through rough terrain/country. - opposite smooth 2 : having or causing sudden, violent movements • a rough [=bumpy] ride on an old wooden roller coaster • We were a bit shaken from the plane's rough landing. - opposite smooth 3 somewhat informal : difficult or unpleasant to deal with • She's had a rough [=tough] life/year/time. • He went through a rough patch/period after his divorce. • They've hit a few rough spots in their marriage. • Despite a rough start, the team won more games this season than last. • I had a rough night last night. [=I did not sleep well] • It was rough going [=things were difficult] for a while. • Our ancestors had it rough [=had a difficult existence] compared to us. • He's having a rough time (of it). = He's going through a rough time. [=he is having a difficult time; his life has been difficult recently] 4 : not calm : having large waves, strong winds, storms, etc. • The sea is rough today. • rough waters off the coast • We ran into some rough [=stormy] weather. 5 : not gentle or careful : causing or likely to cause harm or injury • These dishes are not made to withstand rough handling. • The prisoners complained about rough treatment by the guards. • She says the kids are too rough [=rowdy] when they play. • He doesn't like rough sports like hockey. • All right kids—no rough stuff. [=no behaving or playing in a rough way] • Don't be so rough on them [=don't punish or criticize them so harshly] for making a mistake. 6 : having a lot of crime or danger • I live in a pretty rough neighborhood/area. 7 : made or done in a way that is simple or that needs further changes, improvements, etc. • He made a rough sketch of the house. • They built a rough [=crude] shelter out of branches. • He submitted a rough draft of the article. • The project still has a few rough edges. [=the project still has a few things that need to be changed or finished] • The design is still a bit rough around the edges. 8 always used before a noun : not precise or exact : not including all the details • If I were to make a rough guess, I might say there were 100,000 people at the parade. • a rough translation of a Chinese proverb • This sketch will give you a rough idea of what the house looks like. 9 : having a harsh sound • She has a rough voice. 10 Brit informal : not well • I'm feeling too rough to go out tonight. - rough·ness noun [noncount] • the roughness of the waves • surfaces with varying degrees of roughness and smoothness |
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breed
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2 [no obj] : to produce young animals, birds, etc. : to produce offspring by sexual reproduction
• low-lying areas where mosquitoes breed [=reproduce] 1breed /ˈbriːd/ verb breeds; bred /ˈbrɛd/; breed·ing 1 [+ obj] : to keep and take care of animals or plants in order to produce more animals or plants of a particular kind • He got into the business of breeding cattle. • The plants are bred to resist disease and drought. • dogs bred for hunting = dogs bred as hunters = dogs bred to hunt • wild horses bred to [=mated to] domestic horses [=wild horses and domestic horses brought together to produce horses that have qualities of both] 3 [+ obj] : to take care of and teach (a child who is growing up) • She believes that we are breeding a generation of children who know nothing about the history of their country. - usually used as (be) bred • children who are bred [=(more commonly) raised, brought up] in conditions of poverty and crime - see also breeding, ill-bred, well-bred 4 [+ obj] : to cause or lead to (something) • Despair often breeds violence. • scandals that breed cynicism - see also familiarity breeds contempt at familiarity bred in the bone - used to describe a personal quality that is a deep or basic part of someone's nature • His love of sports is bred in the bone. [=ingrained] - often used as bred-in-the-bone before another noun • He is a bred-in-the-bone conservative. - breed·er noun, pl -ers [count] • cattle/dog breeders [=people who breed cattle/dogs] |
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plethora
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pleth·o·ra /ˈplɛɵərə/ noun[singular] formal : a very large amount or number : an amount that is much greater than what is necessary
• A plethora of books have been written on the subject. • a plethora of information |
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lease
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1lease /ˈliːs/ noun, pl leas·es[count] : a legal agreement that lets someone use a car, house, etc., for a period of time in return for payment
• sign a lease • They took out a five-year lease on the house. • We hold leases on both of our cars. • The lease expires next month. = The lease runs out next month. a new lease on life US or Brit a new lease of life: a chance to continue living or to become successful or popular again • This medicine gives patients a new lease on life. • After they made the movie, the book got a new lease on life. [=the book became newly popular] • The band has given this style of music a new lease on life. |
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amenity
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ame·ni·ty /əˈmɛnəti/ noun, pl -ties[count] : something that makes life easier or more pleasant
• The hotel has every amenity you could want. - usually plural • It offers all the amenities you would expect in a car of its size. • The hotel has other amenities such as a restaurant, swimming pool, and exercise room. • The government intends to provide the isolated town with basic amenities. [=basic things such as roads, running water, and electricity] • We have never really liked each other, but we observe the social amenities [=we behave with politeness towards each other] whenever we meet. |
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clubhouse
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club‧house
/ˈklʌbhaʊs/ noun [C] a building used by a club, especially a sports club |
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deal
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/diːl/ noun
1) agreement [C] an agreement or arrangement, especially in business or politics, that helps both sides involved They made a deal to sell the land to a property developer. deal with rumors that the company had done a deal with Microsoft to market its products deal between Twelve US soldiers were released after a deal between the army and the guerillas. 2) a great/good deal a large quantity of something SYN a lot a great/good deal of It took a great deal of time and effort. His work has been attracting a great deal of attention. a great/good deal more/less etc (=a lot more, less etc) He knew a good deal more than I did. She’s married to a man a good deal older than herself. Grammar Use a great/good deal of only with uncountable nouns a great deal of time/money/work With nouns in the plural, use a lot of a lot of people/animals/shops 3) treatment [C usually singular] treatment of a particular type that is given or received a better/fairer etc deal a better deal for nurses The prime minister promised farmers a new deal (=a new and fairer system) . a rough/raw deal (=unfair treatment) Women tend to get a raw deal from employers. 4) it’s a deal (spoken) used to say that you agree to do something OK, it’s a deal. 5) what's the deal? (AmE) (spoken) used when you want to know about a problem or something strange that is happening So what's the deal? Why is he so mad? 6) cards [singular] when you give out cards to players in a card game → dealer It’s your deal, Alison. 7) wood [U] (BrE) FIR or PINE wood used for making things a deal table 8) a deal of something (old-fashioned) a large amount of something → BIG DEAL COLLOCATIONS verbs do a deal The two companies have recently done a major deal. make a deal (informal) Why don't we make a deal to stay out of each other's way? reach/strike a deal (=agree a deal after a lot of discussions) The US and North Korea reached a deal about North Korea's nuclear development program. sign a deal The singer has signed a $20 million deal with an American TV network. negotiate a deal (=agree a deal by discussing over a long period) We have negotiated a special deal with one of the world’s leading car hire companies. close/conclude a deal (formal) (=agree a deal formally) A deal between the two companies has now been concluded. clinch a deal (=finally agree on a deal, especially one that is good for you) The salesman was eager to clinch the deal. cut a deal (informal) (=agree a deal, especially when it is difficult or you have to accept some things you would rather not accept) In they end, they had to cut a deal with the Communinsts. have a deal (informal) (=have made or agreed on a deal) Do we have a deal? get a good deal (=buy something at a good price) He thought he had got a good deal. back out of/pull out of a deal (=decide not to make a deal after discussing one) Twenty-five jobs were lost after their partner pulled out of the deal. a deal goes through/ahead (=it happens as arranged) It’s 99% certain that the deal will go through. a deal falls through (=does not happen as arranged) The cost was simply too high, so the deal fell through. ADJECTIVES/NOUN + deal a good deal (=a good price, offer, or arrangement) You can buy two for £10, which sounds like a good deal. a business deal He lost a fortune in an unwise business deal. a pay deal (=one that involves an agreement about how much people will be paid) They are currently negotiating a new pay deal. a peace deal (=an agreement to end fighting between countries) Hopes of a peace deal are fading. a financial/political etc deal After weeks of negotiation the prospect of a political deal seemed increasingly unlikely. an arms/weapons deal (=one which involves selling weapons) A number of recent arms deals have embarrassed the government. a record deal (=one between a singer or band and a recording company) It’s hard for a band to get a record deal. a one-year/two-year etc deal (=one that will be fixed for one year, two years etc) The five-year deal is estimated to be worth $17.2 million. a shady deal (=dishonest or illegal) Some senior members of the party were involved in shady deals and bribery. phrases part of the deal I got free accommodation as part of the deal. the terms of a deal (=the details or conditions in it) The hotel group refused to release the financial terms of the deal. a done deal (informal) (=something that has been completely agreed) The takeover has been described as a done deal. Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English, Fifth Edition (LDOCE5) © Pearson Education Limited 2009 |
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storage
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stor·age /ˈstorɪʤ/ noun[noncount]
1 a : space where you put things when they are not being used • The house has plenty of storage. [=the house has plenty of space in its closets, cabinets, etc.] • Her new house is much smaller, so she had to rent additional storage. b : the state of being kept in a place when not being used : the state of being stored somewhere • We need to get our furniture out of storage. • He kept his belongings in storage [=he stored his belongings] until he found an apartment. c : the act of putting something that is not being used in a place where it is available, where it can be kept safely, etc. : the act of storing something • the body's storage of fat • the storage of nuclear waste • The table folds down for storage. [=when you want to store it; when you are not using it] • The cellar is used for (food/wine) storage. 2 computers a : space for placing information • a computer with 64 megabytes of storage [=memory] • disk storage b : the act of placing information in a computer memory • data storage - storage adj always used before a noun • There is plenty of storage space in the attic. • a storage room/area • a rental/rented storage unit • storage costs • a storage capacity of 64 megabytes • an internal/external storage device |
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dweller
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dwel‧ler
/ˈdwelə $ -ər/noun [C] city/town/cave etc dweller a person or animal that lives in a particular place City dwellers suffer higher pollution levels. |
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covet
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cov·et /ˈkʌvət/ verb -ets; -et·ed; -et·ing[+ obj] : to want (something that you do not have) very much
• All his life he has coveted [=craved, desired] success. • a coveted prize • His religion warns against coveting material goods. |
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basement
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base·ment /ˈbeɪsmənt/ noun, pl -ments[count] : the part of a building that is entirely or partly below the ground - see also bargain basement
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bike
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1bike /ˈbaɪk/ noun, pl bikes[count]
1 : bicycle • She rode her bike to school. • a bike path 2 : motorcycle - see also dirt bike, motorbike |
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sink
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2sink noun, pl sinks[count] : a wide bowl that has a faucet for water and a drain at the bottom and is usually positioned in a counter or on a pedestal • a kitchen sink • (chiefly US) a bathroom sink [=(chiefly Brit) washbasin] - see pictures at bathroom, kitchen 1sink /ˈsɪŋk/ verb sinks; sank /ˈsæŋk/ or sunk /ˈsʌŋk/; sunk; sink·ing 1 a [no obj] : to go down below the surface of water, mud, etc. • The passengers were rescued from the boat before it sank. • a sinking ship • The rock sank to the bottom of the pool. • My foot sank into the deep mud. • She sank up to her knees in the snow. b [+ obj] : to cause (a ship or boat) to go down below the surface of water • The torpedo sank the ship. 2 [no obj] : to move down to a lower position • The sun sank behind the hills. • He sank to his knees and prayed. [=he knelt down and prayed] • She sank back into the cozy chair. 3 [no obj] : to become lower in amount, value, etc. : to decline or decrease • The temperature sinks quickly after the sun sets. • The lake's water level is slowly sinking. • His strength is slowly sinking. • The company's stock sank after it announced that profits were less than expected. • The currency's value is sinking. 4 [+ obj] : to use force to cause (something) to go into the ground or another surface - often + into • He sank [=drove] the fence posts into the ground. • He sank the ax into the tree. • The nail was sunk all the way into the wall. • The cat sank its claws into my arm. 5 [no obj] a : to do something that is morally wrong • How could you sink [=stoop] to cheating? • I never thought he could sink so low. [=do something so wrong] b : to begin to feel sad, depressed, etc. • She sank into a deep depression. • Her heart sank [=she became very sad] at the thought of moving so far away. • With a sinking heart [=with great sadness], she signed the papers to sell the house. • She got that sinking feeling [=a feeling of dread or discouragement] as she viewed the storm damage. c : to go or change to a worse or less active state - often + into • The patient sank into a coma. • He's sinking fast and won't live much longer. 6 [no obj] of a person's voice : to become quieter • Her voice sank to a whisper. [=she began to whisper] 7 a [no obj] : to become less successful : to move toward failure • The company is sinking under the weight of heavy debt. [=the company is failing because it has too much debt] b [+ obj] : to cause (someone or something) to fail • Bad weather sank their plans for a picnic. • If we don't get that money soon, we'll be sunk. 8 [+ obj] : to make (a well, shaft, mine, etc.) by digging down into the earth • The workers are sinking a well. 9 [+ obj] : to spend (a lot of money, work, time, etc.) on something - + in or into • He sank [=invested] five million dollars in the new company. • He keeps sinking money into that old car. • She has sunk a lot of work into the project. 10 [+ obj] : to throw, hit, or roll (a ball) into a hole or basket • He sank [=dropped, holed] the putt. • In pool, you need to sink [=pocket] the eight ball to win. • She sank the jump shot. 11 [+ obj] chiefly Brit informal : to drink (something) completely • They sank [=downed] one more pint before leaving. sink in [phrasal verb]: to become completely known, felt, or understood • I had to tell him what to do over and over before it finally sank in. • The fact that she's left me still hasn't really sunk in. sink like a stone: to sink very suddenly and quickly • The ship hit an iceberg and sank like a stone. - often used figuratively • His last movie sank like a stone. sink or swim ✦A situation in which you either sink or swim is one in which you must succeed by your own efforts or fail completely. • They left me to sink or swim on my own. • In this job, it's sink or swim. sink without a trace US or Brit sink without trace: to sink beneath the water to a place that cannot be seen or found • The boat sank without a trace. - often used figuratively • Her first album was a big success, but after that she sank without a trace. sink your teeth into - see tooth |
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detect
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de·tect /dɪˈtɛkt/ verb -tects; -tect·ed; -tect·ing[+ obj] : to discover or notice the presence of (something that is hidden or hard to see, hear, taste, etc.)
• The test is used to detect the presence of alcohol in the blood. • This type of cancer is difficult to detect in its early stages. • He thought he detected [=sensed] a note of irony in her comments. - de·tect·able /dɪˈtɛktəbəl/ adj • a dim star that is only detectable with a powerful telescope • sounds barely detectable by the human ear |
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take care
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1.
be cautious; keep oneself safe. "take care if you're planning to go out tonight" 2. make sure of doing something. "he would take care to provide himself with an escape clause" |
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defect
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1de·fect /ˈdiːˌfɛkt/ noun, pl -fects[count] : a problem or fault that makes someone or something not perfect: such as
a : a physical problem that causes something to be less valuable, effective, healthy, etc. • This small defect [=flaw] greatly reduces the diamond's value. • They examine their products for defects. • a minor/major defect • She was born with a heart defect. • a birth defect [=a physical problem that someone is born with] b : something that causes weakness or failure • We had to point out the defect [=flaw] in their logic. • Vanity and pride were his two worst character defects. |
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except
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1ex·cept /ɪkˈsɛpt/ also ex·cept·ing /ɪkˈsɛptɪŋ/ prep: not including (someone or something) : other than (something or someone)
• The stores will be open daily except Sundays. • Excepting [=with the exception of] one student, no one could answer the questions correctly. • Everyone was invited except [=but] me. except for 1 : not including (someone or something) : other than (someone or something) • I got all As on my report card, except for a B in Latin. • Except for that one typo, there were no mistakes. • Everyone was invited except for [=but] me. 2 : if not for (someone or something) • They would all have died except for [=but for] her and her quick thinking. [=it was only because of her that they did not die] |
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fixture
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fix·ture /ˈfɪksʧɚ/ noun, pl -tures[count]
1 : something (such as a light, toilet, sink, etc.) that is attached to a house or building and that is not removed when the house or building is sold - usually plural • bathroom fixtures • lighting fixtures - compare 2fitting 3 2 : a person or thing that has been part of something or involved in something for a long time • He's been a fixture in the parade for many years. • She hopes the new educational program will become a permanent fixture at the zoo. 3 Brit sports : a game played at a particular time and place • I attended all their home fixtures [=(US) games] last year. |
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appliance
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electrical equipment
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restrictions
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re·stric·tion /rɪˈstrɪkʃən/ noun, pl -tions
1 [count] : a law or rule that limits or controls something • Building in that area came with some restrictions. • travel restrictions • They placed/imposed restrictions on smoking indoors. • They will lift/remove export restrictions. 2 [noncount] : the act of limiting or controlling something • illegal restriction of free speech |
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landlord
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land·lord /ˈlændˌloɚd/ noun, pl -lords[count]
1 : a person who owns a house, apartment, etc., and rents it to other people - see also absentee landlord 2 : a man who runs an inn, pub, or rooming house - compare landlady |
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regulate
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reg·u·late /ˈrɛgjəˌleɪt/ verb -lates; -lat·ed; -lat·ing[+ obj]
1 : to set or adjust the amount, degree, or rate of (something) : control • The dam regulates the flow of water into the river. • The thermostat regulates the room's temperature. = The room's temperature is regulated by the thermostat. 2 a : to bring (something) under the control of authority • We need better laws to regulate the content of the Internet. • Laws have been made to regulate working conditions. b : to make rules or laws that control (something) • The government regulates how much lead may be found in our water supply. • The department regulates foreign trade. |
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hole
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1hole /ˈhoʊl/ noun, pl holes
1 [count] : an opening into or through something • I have a hole in my sock. • He fixed the hole in the roof. • a bullet hole • make/poke/drill a hole • a mouse hole in the wall 2 [count] a : a hollow place in the ground • The dog dug a deep/shallow hole. - see also foxhole, swimming hole, water hole b : a place in the ground where an animal lives • a rabbit hole 3 [count] golf a : the cup into which the ball is hit • Her putt rolled right into the hole. b : one of the separate parts of a golf course that includes a tee and a green • She made a birdie on the seventh hole. • The course has 18 holes. 4 [count] : a flaw or weakness • There are plenty of holes in the theory. • There are a couple of holes in their defense. • The police were unable to poke any holes in his story. [=to find evidence showing that his story was not true] - see also loophole 5 [singular] informal a : a difficult or embarrassing situation • He's in trouble and needs someone to help get/dig him out of this hole. [=fix, jam] • They found themselves in a hole, trailing by 10 points with not much time left in the game. b US : the state of owing or losing money • She gave them a loan to help get them out of their financial hole. [=debt] • He was hundreds of dollars in the hole [=he owed hundreds of dollars] by the end of the night. 6 [count] - used to describe a situation in which someone or something is gone or missing • When their daughter went to college, it left/made a big hole in their lives. [=they missed their daughter very much when she went to college] 7 informal a [count] : a dirty and unpleasant place • I can't believe he lives there! It's such a hole! - see also hellhole b the hole US : a prison cell where a prisoner who is being punished is kept alone • He spent a month in the hole. [=(more formally) in solitary confinement] 8 [count] a baseball : an open area between two fielders • He hit a grounder that went through the hole between the first and second basemen. • He hit a sharp ground ball into the hole. [=the area between the shortstop and third baseman] b American football : an open area between defenders that allows an offensive player to move the ball forward • a running back skilled at finding holes an ace in the hole - see 1ace like a hole in the headinformal ✦If you do not need something at all, you can say that you need it like a hole in the head. • She already has too many shoes. She needs another pair like a hole in the head. punch holes ininformal : to weaken (an argument, idea, etc.) by proving that parts of it are wrong • Lawyers tried to punch holes in her argument. |
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blind
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1blind /ˈblaɪnd/ adj blind·er; -est
1 : unable to see • a blind person • He was born blind. • She is blind in one eye. [=she can see with one of her eyes but not with the other] • She went blind [=she became unable to see] at age 67. - see also color-blind 2 : unable to notice or judge something - usually + to • He is blind to his son's faults. • Each party was blind to the other's concerns. 3 a usually disapproving : accepting the actions or decisions of someone or something without any questions or criticism • blind loyalty/allegiance/obedience • I'm not sure blind faith [=unquestioning belief] in our leaders is wise. b - used to describe strong emotions that make someone unable to think clearly or to act reasonably • a blind fury/rage 4 : done in a way that prevents participants, judges, etc., from seeing or knowing certain things that might influence them • a blind taste test [=a test in which people taste something without knowing what it is, who made it, etc.] • a blind clinical trial for the new medicine • blind auditions - see also blind date, double-blind 5 : difficult for a driver to see • a blind driveway/drive • a blind curve - see also blind spot (as) blind as a batinformal : unable to see well at all : having very poor vision • Without glasses I'm blind as a bat. love is blind - see 1love not a blind bitBrit informal : not even a very small amount : not the slightest bit • I told them what I wanted, but they didn't take a blind bit of notice. [=they didn't notice at all; they did not listen to me] • It does not make a blind bit of difference what you do. [=it does not matter at all what you do] the blind: blind people : people who are not able to see • The agency provides assistance to the blind. ✦The expression the blind leading the blind is used informally to describe a situation in which someone who is not sure about how to do something is helping another person who also is not sure about how to do it. • I'll try to help, but it's the blind leading the blind because I've never done this before either. turn a blind eye: to ignore a problem instead of dealing with it • Corruption in the police force is rampant, but authorities are turning a blind eye. - often + to • Colleges can't afford to turn a blind eye to alcohol abuse. - blind·ness noun [noncount] • a leading cause of blindness |
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tax
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1tax /ˈtæks/ noun, pl taxes: an amount of money that a government requires people to pay according to their income, the value of their property, etc., and that is used to pay for the things done by the government
[count] • The decision was made to raise/cut taxes. • He was accused of evading taxes. • What was your income before/after taxes? - often + on • a tax on tobacco products [noncount] • What is the amount of tax to be paid? • What was your income before/after tax? • tax deductions/laws/rates - see also income tax, poll tax, pretax, sales tax, surtax, value-added tax, withholding tax |
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attic
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at·tic /ˈætɪk/ noun, pl -tics[count] : a room or space that is just below the roof of a building and that is often used to store things
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dining room
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ˈdaɪn
dining room noun, pl ~ rooms[count] : a room that is used for eating meals |
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stair
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stair /ˈsteɚ/ noun, pl stairs
1 stairs [plural] : a series of steps that go from one level or floor to another • She ran down the stairs. • He waited at the foot/bottom of the stairs. • She slipped and fell down the stairs. • The stairs lead to the roof. • We had to climb another flight/set of stairs to get to the roof. 2 [count] : one of the steps in a set of stairs • a squeaky stair • He tripped on the bottom stair and almost fell. 3 [singular] literary : staircase • climbing the stair |
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chest
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chest /ˈʧɛst/ noun, pl chests[count]
1 : a container (such as a box or case) for holding things or moving them from place to place • a linen chest • a tool chest • a treasure chest • a medicine chest [=a cabinet on a bathroom wall that is used for storing medicine and small items] - see also chest of drawers, hope chest, war chest 2 : the front part of the body between the neck and the stomach • He has a broad chest. • The pain is in my upper chest. - often used before another noun • the chest cavity • a chest X-ray • She's been complaining of chest pains. - see picture at human close to your chest - see 2close get (something) off your chest: to tell someone about something that has been making you upset or unhappy • You've been a little cold to me lately. Is there something you'd like to get off your chest? - chest·ed /ˈʧɛstəd/ adj - used in combination • flat-chested • bare-chested |
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couch
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1couch /ˈkaʊʧ/ noun, pl couch·es[count]
1 : a long piece of furniture on which a person can sit or lie down : sofa - see picture at living room 2 : a piece of furniture for a patient to lie on at a doctor's office • a psychiatrist's couch |
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china
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chi·na /ˈʧaɪnə/ noun[noncount]
1 : a hard white material that is made of baked clay and used to make plates, bowls, etc. • This vase is (made of) china. - often used before another noun • a china teapot - see also bone china 2 : plates, bowls, cups, etc., that are made of china • She uses her good china when she has company for dinner. a bull in a china shop - see 1bull |
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dressing room
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noun
a room in which actors or sports players change clothes before and after their performance or game. a small room attached to a bedroom, used for dressing in and to store clothes. |
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stool
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stool /ˈstuːl/ noun, pl stools[count]
1 a : a seat that fits one person and that has no back or arms • She sat on a stool. • a bar stool • a piano stool b : a piece of furniture that supports the feet of a person who is sitting : footstool 2 medical : a piece of solid waste that is released from the body • The patient had bloody/loose/hard stools. • a stool sample • stool softener [=a medicine that makes it easier to discharge bodily waste] |
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wardrobe
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ward·robe /ˈwoɚˌdroʊb/ noun, pl -robes[count]
1 a : a collection of clothes that a person owns or wears • She has a new summer wardrobe. • She has quite an extensive wardrobe. [=she has a lot of clothes] b : the clothes worn by actors in films, plays, etc. also; : the department that keeps and takes care of the clothes for films, plays, etc. • She went to wardrobe for her fitting. 2 : a room, closet, or chest where clothes are kept • a walk-in wardrobe |
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hanger
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hang·er /ˈhæŋɚ/ noun, pl -ers[count] : a usually curved piece of metal, plastic, or wood that is used for hanging clothing
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blanket
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1blan·ket /ˈblæŋkət/ noun, pl -kets[count]
1 : a covering made of cloth that is used especially on a bed to keep you warm • a wool blanket • It's going to get cold tonight so you may need extra blankets. • an electric blanket [=a blanket warmed by electricity] • a beach blanket [=a blanket you sit on at the beach] - see picture at bed; see also security blanket 2 a : a mass of something that covers an area • a blanket of snow/fog/ice • a blanket of flowers/grass b : a general mood - usually singular • A blanket of gloom spread over the crowd when they realized their team would lose. - see also wet blanket |
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sheet
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1sheet /ˈʃiːt/ noun, pl sheets[count]
1 a : a large piece of cloth that is used to cover something • We used sheets to protect the furniture when we painted. b : a large piece of thin cloth used on a bed • The sheets are changed daily at the hotel. • He slid between the sheets and went to sleep. - called also bedsheet; - see picture at bed 2 : a usually rectangular piece of paper - see also balance sheet, rap sheet, spreadsheet, time sheet, worksheet clean sheet at 1clean 3 : a thin, flat, rectangular or square piece of something • a sheet of iron/glass - see also baking sheet, cookie sheet 4 : a wide, flat surface or area of something • A sheet of ice covered the driveway. - see also ice sheet 5 : a large moving area of something (such as fire or water) • a sheet of flame • sheets of rain - compare 2sheet |
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interrupt
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in·ter·rupt /ˌɪntəˈrʌpt/ verb -rupts; -rupt·ed; -rupt·ing
1 : to ask questions or say things while another person is speaking : to do or say something that causes someone to stop speaking [+ obj] • Please don't interrupt me (while I'm talking). [no obj] • It's not polite to interrupt. • Please don't interrupt (while I'm talking). 2 [+ obj] : to cause (something) to stop happening for a time • His dinner was interrupted by a phone call. • We interrupt this program to bring you a special announcement. 3 [+ obj] : to cause (something) to not be even or continuous : to change or stop the sameness or smoothness of (something) • Every summer periods of cool weather occasionally interrupt the intense heat. - often used as (be) interrupted • The intense heat is occasionally interrupted by periods of cool weather. • a grassy plain interrupted by a lone tree - in·ter·rup·tion /ˌɪntəˈrʌpʃən/ noun, pl -tions [count] • The dynasty lasted several hundred years, with only a few interruptions. • I wish it were possible to watch television without all the commercial interruptions. • frequent/annoying interruptions [noncount] • She spoke for an hour without interruption. • There shouldn't be any interruption in/to your phone service. |
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quit
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quit /ˈkwɪt/ verb quits; quit also quit·ted; quit·ting
1 informal : to leave (a job, school, career, etc.) [+ obj] • He quit his job. • She quit college after one semester. • She decided to quit show business. • He quit teaching after five years. [no obj] • Many workers are quitting because of poor pay. • She hates her job and she's thinking about quitting. • I quit! 2 chiefly US informal : to stop doing (an action or activity) [+ obj] • She quit smoking/drinking years ago. • I wish you would quit bothering her. • He angrily told her to quit it. [=to stop doing what she was doing] [no obj] • We're going to quit for the day. It's too hot to keep working. 3 [no obj] informal : to stop working • The engine suddenly quit. • The car quit [=broke down] a few miles down the road. 4 formal : to leave (the place where you live) [+ obj] • They quit the city for a quiet life in the country. • The landlord gave the tenants notice to quit the premises. [=the landlord formally told them that they had to leave] [no obj] • The landlord gave the tenants notice to quit. |
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queue
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1queue /ˈkjuː/ noun, pl queues[count]
1 chiefly Brit : a line of people who are waiting for something • The people formed a queue [=(US) line] at the ticket window. • We were forced to stand/wait in a queue. • a bus/taxi queue 2 computers : a series of instructions that are stored in a computer so that they can be processed later • Three jobs remain in the printer queue. jump the queueBrit : to go ahead of the other people in a queue : to go to the front of a queue instead of waiting • He tried to jump the queue but they wouldn't let him. - see also queue-jumping |
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accommodation
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ac·com·mo·da·tion /əˌkɑːməˈdeɪʃən/ noun, pl -tions
1 a accommodations [plural] US : a place (such as a room in a hotel) where travelers can sleep and find other services • We need overnight accommodations [=lodging] for four people. • They weren't sure if they could provide food and accommodations for the whole group. • The accommodations on board the boat are a bit cramped. b [noncount] chiefly Brit : a place where people can live, stay, or work • We need overnight accommodation [=lodging] for four people. • office accommodation 2 formal a : an agreement that allows people, groups, etc., to work together [singular] • He hoped to reach an accommodation with the new owners. [noncount] • Negotiators were convinced that accommodation with the union was possible. b : something done to provide what is needed or wanted for someone or something [singular] • He changed his schedule as an accommodation to his clients. [noncount] • Changes were made for the accommodation of differing viewpoints. |
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cater
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ca·ter /ˈkeɪtɚ/ verb -ters; -tered; -ter·ing: to provide food and drinks at a party, meeting, etc., especially as a job
[no obj] • The restaurant caters for parties/banquets/receptions. [+ obj] • A local restaurant catered the banquet/meal/reception. • The awards ceremony will be a catered event/affair. cater to chiefly US or chiefly Brit cater for [phrasal verb]cater to/for (someone or something) : to provide what is wanted or needed by (someone or something) • The inn caters exclusively to foreign tourists. • The library caters to [=serves] scientists. • That store caters to middle-class taste. • The hotel caters to your every need. [=the hotel provides everything that you need] • (disapproving) As a child he was spoiled by parents who catered to his every need. - ca·ter·er /ˈkeɪtɚrɚ/ noun, pl -ers [count] • a successful cook and caterer • The party was serviced by the best caterer in the area. - catering noun [noncount] • Who did the catering for the party? • She runs a catering business. |
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irritate
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ir·ri·tate /ˈirəˌteɪt/ verb -tates; -tat·ed; -tat·ing[+ obj]
1 : to make (someone) impatient, angry, or annoyed • It's his arrogance that really irritates me. • The other passengers were irritated by the child's rudeness. 2 : to make (part of your body) sore or painful • Harsh soaps can irritate the skin. - irritated adj [more ~; most ~] • I've never seen him looking so irritated. • an area of skin that is very irritated and sore - irritating adj [more ~; most ~] • He's an irritating child. • The child's rudeness was very irritating to us. • Harsh soaps can be very irritating to the skin. - ir·ri·tat·ing·ly /ˈirəˌteɪtɪŋli/ adv • He's an irritatingly rude child. - ir·ri·ta·tion /ˌirəˈteɪʃən/ noun [noncount] • You'll get over the irritation of being delayed. • harsh soaps that can cause irritation of the skin [count] • We had to put up with delays and other irritations. • skin irritations |
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infuriate
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in·fu·ri·ate /ɪnˈfjɚriˌeɪt/ verb -ates; -at·ed; -at·ing[+ obj] : to make (someone) very angry : to make (someone) furious
• His arrogance infuriates me! = It infuriates me that he is so arrogant! • I was infuriated by his arrogance. - infuriated adj [more ~; most ~] • The sales clerk was being shouted at by an infuriated customer. - infuriating adj [more ~; most ~] • He has an infuriating habit of ignoring me. - in·fu·ri·at·ing·ly /ɪnˈfjɚriˌeɪtɪŋli/ adv • an infuriatingly arrogant man |
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downtown
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1down·town /ˈdaʊnˌtaʊn/ noun, pl -towns[count] chiefly US : the main or central part of a city or town : the part of a city or town where there are tall buildings, stores, offices, etc. - usually singular
• I live close to downtown. • The city's downtown is thriving. - compare uptown |
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cereal
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ce·re·al /ˈsirijəl/ noun, pl -als
1 [count] : a plant (such as a grass) that produces grain that can be eaten • Wheat and barley are common cereals. 2 : a breakfast food made from grain ✦Cereal is usually eaten in a bowl with milk poured over it. [noncount] • a bowl of cereal • Some kinds of cereal have a lot of added sugar. [count] • Some cereals have a lot of added sugar. • breakfast cereals |
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patient
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1pa·tient /ˈpeɪʃənt/ adj[more ~; most ~]
1 : able to remain calm and not become annoyed when waiting for a long time or when dealing with problems or difficult people • I hate having to stand in long lines. I'm just not very patient. • The teacher treated her students in a patient and understanding way. • “Aren't you finished yet?” “Be patient. I'll be done soon.” - often + with • The teacher was patient with her students. - opposite impatient 2 : done in a careful way over a long period of time without hurrying • Proofreading requires patient attention to detail. • They put in years of patient labor/work on the project. - pa·tient·ly adv • He patiently waited for his turn. • The teacher patiently explained the new material. |
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faucet
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fau·cet /ˈfɑːsət/ noun, pl -cets[count] US : a device that is used to control the flow of water from a pipe
• turn on/off the faucet [=tap] - see pictures at bathroom, kitchen |
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catch
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1catch /ˈkæʧ, ˈkɛʧ/ verb catch·es; caught /ˈkɑːt/; catch·ing
1 a : to use your hands to stop and hold (an object that is moving through the air) [+ obj] • Catch the ball and throw it to first base. • She caught the ball with one hand. • I dropped the book but managed to catch it before it hit the ground. [no obj] • I'll throw you the keys. Ready? Catch! b [+ obj] : to use your hands to grasp and hold onto (someone or something) • He caught [=grabbed, seized] her by the wrist. • He caught hold of her wrist. 2 [+ obj] : to capture and not allow (a person, animal, or fish) to escape • The police are working hard to catch the criminals and put them in jail. • “I bet you can't catch me!” she yelled to her brother. • I once caught 10 fish in a single day. • In the summer, we would catch fireflies and put them in jars. • catching mice in traps • lions catching their prey 3 [+ obj] a : to manage to find, meet, or reach (someone) at a particular time or in a particular state or condition • I caught her just as she was leaving for work. • I'm afraid you've caught me at a bad time. b : to find (someone who is doing something wrong) • The police caught him trying to steal the painting. • My teacher caught me cheating on a test. • Her father caught her smoking in the basement. • You'd never catch me doing that! [=I would never do that] • They caught him in the act (of stealing the painting). = He was caught red-handed. 4 [+ obj] : to affect (someone) in a sudden and surprising way • They were caught unprepared by the crisis. = The crisis caught them unawares. [=they were not prepared when the crisis occurred] • The announcement caught me by surprise. [=I was surprised by the announcement] 5 [+ obj] a : to suddenly stop (yourself) before you do something • Luckily, he caught himself before he gave away the secret. b : to suddenly become aware that you are doing something • He caught himself staring at her. 6 [+ obj] : to cause (someone) to be stopped, delayed, etc. - usually used as (be/get) caught • We got caught in a rain storm and had to find shelter. • I'm sorry I'm late. I was caught in traffic. • We got caught up in traffic and were late for our flight. - see also caught up in 1 (below) 7 : to cause (something) to become stuck and unable to move [+ obj] • I caught my sleeve on a nail. • The kite got caught [=tangled] in the tree. • She tried to stand up, but her foot was caught in the strap. [no obj] • My sleeve caught on a nail. 8 [no obj] : to have the parts connect firmly • I tried to lock the door, but the lock wouldn't catch. 9 [+ obj] a : to stop and hold (falling water) • They kept a bucket outside to catch the rain. b : to become covered with (something that moves through the air) • These curtains catch a lot of dust. 10 [+ obj] a : to hit or touch (someone or something) • The bullet caught him in the leg. • His last punch caught me in the jaw. • Isn't it beautiful the way the setting sun catches the tips of the trees? b : to be hit or touched by (something) • He caught a bullet in the leg. • The tips of the trees catch the light as the sun sets. 11 [+ obj] : to become affected with (a sickness or disease) • We both caught [=contracted] the flu. • I seem to catch a cold every winter. • children catching colds from each other ✦When people say that you will catch your death (of cold), they mean that you will become sick or catch a very bad cold. • It's freezing! You'll catch your death if you go out without a coat! - see also catching 12 [+ obj] : to begin to feel excitement or interest about something • I haven't caught the holiday spirit yet this year. • People are getting really interested in the sport. The whole country is starting to catch the fever. 13 [+ obj] : to attract and hold (someone's attention, interest, etc.) • I tried to catch the waiter's attention, but I guess he didn't see me. • The show is more likely to catch the interest of an older audience. • Her books have caught the imagination of children from around the world. [=children find her books very exciting and enjoyable] ✦If someone or something catches your eye, you notice that person or thing. • There was one dress in particular that caught my eye. - see also eye-catching 14 [+ obj] : to see, smell, or notice (something) • I caught [=got] a faint whiff of her perfume. • While you're in Hollywood, you might catch a glimpse of some movie stars. • I caught sight of his red shirt and started calling to him. 15 [+ obj] informal : to hear or understand (something) • What was that again? I didn't quite catch [=hear, get] what you said. • I didn't catch your name. • Do you catch my drift? [=do you understand what I mean?] 16 [+ obj] : to become aware of (something, such as an illness) • The disease is curable if caught [=detected] early. 17 [+ obj] : to have or do (something) • You can catch [=take] a quick nap on the train. 18 [+ obj] : to get (something) through effort • I managed to catch [=get] a ride into town with some friends. 19 [+ obj] informal : to meet with (someone) • “See you soon.” “Yup. Catch you later.” 20 [+ obj] : to move fast enough to be next to or in front of (someone) • She caught [=overtook] the leader in the final meters of the race. • He left before I did so I had to hurry to catch him. [=to catch up with him] 21 [+ obj] : to get on a bus, train, etc., before it leaves • If you miss the first bus, you can catch the next one in 15 minutes. • If you'll excuse me, I have a plane to catch. 22 [+ obj] : to see or hear (a show, game, etc.) • I only caught the last few minutes of the game. • Did you catch the show on Channel 4 last night? 23 [+ obj] : to describe or show (someone or something) in an accurate way in art • The new portrait catches her likeness perfectly. • The novel successfully catches the atmosphere of 19th-century Paris. 24 [no obj] baseball : to play the position of catcher • He catches for the New York Yankees. • If you pitch, I'll catch. catch at [phrasal verb]catch at (something) : to reach for and try to hold (something) • The baby caught at my dress as I walked past. catch fire 1 or US catch on fire : to begin to burn • Newspaper catches fire [=ignites] easily. • Their house caught fire and burned to the ground. • Don't leave the towel on the stove. It could catch fire. 2 : to become very popular or effective • The idea failed to catch fire. • The singer hasn't caught fire in this country yet. • a new technology that has caught fire with the public catch hell - see hell catch itchiefly Brit informal : to be punished or scolded • He's really going to catch it [=(US) catch hell] (from his boss) if he comes in late again! catch lightning in a bottle - see 1lightning catch on [phrasal verb] 1 : to become popular • This trend is catching on with/among college students. • Soccer is finally starting to catch on in America. 2 : to learn or understand something • Once you start playing the game, the kids will catch on pretty quickly. • It took her a while to catch on, but she eventually got the joke. catch out [phrasal verb]catch (someone) out chiefly Brit : to show that (someone) does not know something or is doing something bad • She loved catching teachers out by asking tough questions. • The police tried to catch him out in a lie. catch (someone) dead - see 1dead catch up [phrasal verb] 1 : to move fast enough to join someone or something that is in front of you • They went so fast we couldn't catch up. - often + with or to • Slow down so that I can catch up with you. • She ran as fast as she could, but she couldn't catch up with her brother. = (US) She couldn't catch up to him. - often used figuratively • In order to catch up with its competitors in the industry, the company will need to start using more advanced technologies. • She missed several months of school and may never catch up with the other children in her class. = (US) She may never catch up to them. 2 : to learn about recent events • We haven't seen each other in such a long time; we've got lots of catching up to do! • catching up with old friends - often + on • He reads the newspaper on Sunday mornings to catch up on the news. 3 catch up on (something) : to do (something) that you could have done earlier • She has to catch up on her homework. • I hope to catch up on some much-needed sleep this weekend. 4 catch (someone) up Brit : to join someone who is ahead of you • He was ahead of me for most of the race, but I caught him up [=I caught up with him] at the end. • Go on ahead: I'll catch you up later. 5 catch up with (someone) a : to begin to affect (someone) usually in a bad way • All those late nights are really starting to catch up with me! • Old age catches up with everyone in the end. b : to find and arrest (someone) • The police eventually caught up with him in Texas. c informal : to meet with (someone) • I've got to go. I'll catch up with you later. catch your breath - see breath caught in the middle - see 2middle caught short 1 : not having enough of something • Don't be caught short! Make sure you stock up on supplies before you set out on your trip. 2 Brit informal : having a sudden urge to use the toilet caught up in 1 : involved in (a difficult or confusing situation) • Several members of Congress were caught up in the scandal. • How did you get caught up in this mess? - see also 1catch 6 (above) 2 : excited about something and having trouble thinking about anything else • Everyone was caught up in the excitement. • Try not to get too caught up in the moment. - catch·able /ˈkæʧəbəl, ˈkɛʧəbəl/ adj • a catchable ball |
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fine
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fine noun, pl fines[count] : an amount of money that you pay as a punishment for breaking a law or rule
• He had to pay a heavy fine for speeding. • a fine of $500 • The judge imposed a fine on him. |
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fan
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fan noun, pl fans[count] : a person who likes and admires someone (such as a famous person) or something (such as a sport or a sports team) in a very enthusiastic way
• I am a huge baseball fan. • sports fans • He's her biggest/greatest fan. • He is not a fan of insurance companies. [=he doesn't like insurance companies] - compare 1fan |
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let down
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transitive verb
1. a. : to allow to descend gradually : lower let the wagons down the steep slope by means of ropes snubbed around trees — G.R.Stewart b. (1) : to lengthen (a garment) by releasing a fold of material let down a skirt (2) : to reduce the amount of (a fold) so as to lengthen a garment let a hem down c. : to release (formed milk secretion) within the udder 2. a. : to fail to support : desert in a moment of need : forsake , betray peasants who had let down the revolutionary cause — Times Literary Supplement senators felt that they had been let down by their own administration — Harry Conn will not let each other down at the conference table any more than we did on the battlefield — R.M.Makins b. : to fall short of the expectations of : go back on a promise to : disappoint , fail the plot is good but the end lets you down the White mountains wouldn't let me down — G.M.Smith had two appointments with the crown prince and let him down on both occasions — George Mikes sorry for the kid, and tried to let him down easy — Dorothy C. Fisher 3. : to thin out : dilute: as a. : to reduce the intensity of (a colored pigment) by the addition of colorless pigment b. : to reduce the viscosity of (a paint or varnish) by adding thinner 4. a. : to put (a horse) out of action by having a sinew broken b. : to hang low and straight — used of the posterior parts of an animal's body the hocks are well let down a sow well let down in the hams c. : to reduce the weight of (an animal in show condition) : make less fat highly fitted cattle … may have to be let down carefully to develop into useful breeders — W.A.Cochell intransitive verb 1. : to slacken exertion or mental tension : relax all through the crisis she never once let down 2. a. : to bring an airplane down in a glide especially as a prelude to landing it throttle back … until you're letting down about 200 feet a minute — J.N.Bell b. : to come down gradually especially for a landing the plane let down through heavy overcast — Time |
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kick out |
I. intransitive verb 1. : to kick the ball deliberately over a touchline (as when stalling for time) in a soccer game 2. : to take a free kick after a touchback or safety in a game of football transitive verb : to turn out, dismiss, or eject usually forcefully or summarily tried to keep the lad in his employ but finally had to kick him out when he entered the house he was kicked out immediately suggesting kicking all enemy aliens out II. intransitive verb : to turn a surfboard around and drive it over the top of a wave by pushing down on the rear of the board with the foot بیرون کردن، اخراج کردن، توپ را به بیرون زمین بازی بردن |
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get on |
I. phrasal 1. : enter , board , mount got on the horse and rode away 2. : to produce an unfortunate effect on : disturb , upset that sort of talk gets on my nerves 3. : to give attention or consideration to doesn't know when to stop talking once he gets on music 4. : to subject to reprimand or punishment promised to get on him for his negligence II. transitive verb : to dress oneself in : don get on thy boots: we'll ride all night — Shakespeare intransitive verb 1. a. : to continue toward a destination : move along finished his drink and said that he had to be getting on b. : to continue with one's work or business : proceed his desire to get on with his studies — T.B.Costain c. : to draw near : come close it was getting on to four in the morning, and he had not yet closed an eye — F.W.Crofts d. : to become late it was getting on in the afternoon and we were tired — L.A.Viereck e. : to become old : age I am indeed getting on … and a helpmate would cheer my declining days — W.S.Gilbert 2. a. : to achieve success : progress , prosper watched every opportunity because he wanted to get on — Robert Westerby b. : to carry on one's affairs : fare , manage the legacy … came after he was well started, and he always says he could have got on without it — Ellen Glasgow 3. : to maintain a friendly relationship : be on good terms will she get on with your father's wife — Rose Macaulay 4. : to gain knowledge or understanding : grasp the meaning : catch on — used with to he soon got on to the racket they were working 5. chiefly Britain : to make contact — used with to I'll get on to the telephone people first thing in the morning — Dorothy Sayers |
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break up
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verb
transitive verb 1. archaic : to enter forcefully : break into : break and enter 2. : to disrupt the continuity or flow of quotations are apt to break up a book by making it less easy to read — J.E.Gloag 3. a. : to bring about the decomposition or destruction of b. : dissipate , cure break up a cold c. : to bring to an end by settling or disrupting a home run in the tenth that broke up the game a fight that broke up the meeting 4. : to break into pieces in scrapping or salvaging : scrap breaking up the obsolete warships 5. : to check broodiness in (a hen) usually by isolation or change of diet — compare broody coop intransitive verb 1. a. : to cease to exist as a unit : split into separate components : disband , disperse the party broke up at midnight his family had broken up and scattered when school breaks up in the spring b. : become separated into parts or fragments : dissolve when the ice breaks up on the river 2. a. : to fail physically b. : to lose morale, composure, or resolution likely to break up under enemy attack broke up when he heard the joke |
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put off
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2.
a. : delay , postpone many girls tend to put off marriage until they are older — Robert Reid somehow the time for departure must be put off — Lyle Saxon b. : to get rid of for the time being or to induce to wait put the bill collector off for another month I'd forgotten it was that night … can't you put him off? — Nigel Balchin c. : to turn the attention of from some design or purpose : dissuade , elude , frustrate had put a robber off with a show of unconcern was so importunate it was impossible to put him off verb Etymology: Middle English putten of, from putten to put + of off transitive verb 1. : disconcert , repel don't be put off by the ghastly jacket — B.C.L.Keelan in this way you may put off as many as you persuade — A.P.Herbert 3. a. : to take off : rid oneself of put his coat off you had your choosing, and it's time you'd put off your flightiness — Mary Deasy b. : to dispose of second litters can be put off in autumn as porkers — A.Longwill c. : to sell or pass fraudulently a moon-eyed roan that some slick trader had put off on him — F.B.Gipson put off a counterfeit ten-dollar bill 4. : to push or send off (a boat) from land or another boat the pinnace was put off from the yacht — William Black let me cut the cable, and when we are put off, fall to their throats — Shakespeare intransitive verb : to leave land the inhabitants then put off in boats and salvaged the cargo of the wrecked boat — American Guide Series: New Jersey |
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carry out
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1. : to put into execution
2. : to bring to a successful issue 3. : to continue to an end or stopping point |
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get around
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a. : to go from place to place
people … continued to get around in horse-drawn vehicles — American Guide Series: Washington b. : to travel or socialize extensively and so have wide knowledge or experience is a good mixer and also gets around with the black-tie crowd — N.C.Stageburg I. phrasal 1. : to get the better of : circumvent a small group of aggressive citizens has managed to get around … the largest, richest, most powerful international combine in the history of the world — Fred Smith 2. : to escape the force of : evade there is no getting around it: meaning implies convention — J.M.Barzun II. intransitive verb 1. 2. : to become known or current sooner or later everybody's business gets around — Hamilton Basso 3. a. : to find or take the necessary time or effort — used with to those who never got around to reading the full work — R.E.Sherwood b. : to give attention or consideration usually after considerable delay — used with to knew we'd have to get around to the subject of seasickness sooner or later — Richard Joseph |
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cope with
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go up against in contest
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draw
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1draw /ˈdrɑː/ verb draws; drew /ˈdruː/; drawn /ˈdrɑːn/; draw·ing
1 : to make (a picture, image, etc.) by making lines on a surface especially with a pencil, pen, marker, chalk, etc., but not usually with paint [+ obj] • He drew me a picture of the bike. = He drew a picture of the bike for me. • The computer can draw the graph for you. • Students drew maps of the states and labeled them. [no obj] • You draw very well. • She sat down and began to draw. - compare paint 2 [+ obj] : to cause (attention) to be given to someone or something • The case has drawn attention to the fact that many athletes never graduate. • I would like to draw your attention to the third line. • He didn't want to draw attention to himself. [=he did not want to cause people to notice him] 3 [+ obj] a : to cause (someone or something) to come : to attract (someone or something) • The band always draws a large crowd. • She felt drawn [=attracted] to the young man. • The college draws students from around the world. • The animals were drawn to the campsite by the smell of food. • We hope the display in the window will draw customers in from the street. • The lure of city life has drawn away many of the town's young people. • My eye was drawn to the painting. [=some characteristic of the painting made me want to look at it] b : to cause (someone) to become involved or interested in something or someone - + in, into, or to • What first drew you to teaching? • A good writer knows how to draw readers in. [=how to make readers interested; how to make people want to read something] - often used as (be/get) drawn • She was drawn in by his friendly manner. [=she wanted to know and talk to him because he was friendly] • She got drawn into the conversation. 4 [+ obj] : to get or receive (something) • a television show that has drawn consistently high ratings • The player drew a foul. : to get (a particular response or reaction) • His speech drew cheers from the crowd. • The movie has drawn much criticism/praise from critics. • He is a talented high school athlete who has drawn the interest of several major colleges. • The principal's remarks have drawn fire [=attracted angry criticism] from both parents and teachers. 5 a always followed by an adverb or preposition [no obj] : to move in a specified direction • She drew away from the spider. • He opened the door and drew back in horror/shock/fear. • The car drew (up) alongside us. • The train drew [=pulled] into the station. • She drew her eyebrows together in a frown of concentration. - sometimes used figuratively • He drew away [=(more commonly) withdrew] from his family. b [+ obj] : to move (something) by pulling • a carriage drawn by horses = a horse-drawn carriage • Draw the curtains/blinds/shades. [=open or close the curtains/blinds/shades] • a special fabric that draws moisture away from the skin • She drew the blanket over her head. • Draw up a chair and join us. [=bring a chair to where we are and sit down with us] • She sat down in the chair and drew up her knees/legs. [=she bent her legs and moved her knees toward her chest] - sometimes used figuratively • The tragedy drew us closer together. [=made us emotionally closer] 6 [no obj] : to move gradually or steadily in time or space • The lion drew closer to its prey. • The sun is setting and the day is drawing to a close. [=ending] • Spring is drawing near/nigh. [=approaching] • The car drew to a halt/stop. [=the car slowed down and stopped] 7 [+ obj] a : to form (something, such as an idea or conclusion) after thinking carefully about information you have • You can draw your own conclusions. - often + from • a writer who draws ideas from newspaper stories • We can draw lessons from past mistakes. [=we can learn from past mistakes] b : to describe how two or more things are similar or different : to make (a comparison, distinction, etc.) between two or more things • Many people have been drawing comparisons between the two movies. [=have been saying that the movies are similar] • She drew important distinctions between the two methods. [=described important ways that the two methods are different] 8 a [+ obj] : to take (something) out of a container, pocket, etc. • They were arguing, and then one of them drew [=pulled] a gun. • One of the thieves drew a knife on her. [=one of the thieves took a knife out of a pocket, container, etc., and pointed it at her] • She drew water from the well. - see also at daggers drawn at dagger b [+ obj] : to cause (something) to come out of a source • He drew [=ran] water for a bath. c [+ obj] : to get (something) from a source • The car also draws power from a battery. • She draws strength/inspiration from her loving family. d : to take (a card) from a group of cards [+ obj] • Draw four cards. [no obj] • You haven't drawn yet. 9 a [+ obj] : to choose (a thing) from a group without knowing which one you are choosing • She drew the winning number/ticket. • We drew names from a hat to decide who would go on the trip. • (Brit) The U.S. team have been drawn against [=chosen to play against] Greece in the first round. - see also draw lots at lot b [no obj] : to decide something by choosing something from a group • We'll draw to see who will drive. - see also draw straws (below) 10 [+ obj] : to make (something, such as a legal document) in a proper or legal form • We hired a lawyer to draw a will. - often + up • They drew up a contract/proposal/plan/list. 11 a [+ obj] : to take (something, such as air or smoke) into your lungs by breathing • She drew a deep breath before responding. - often + in • He drew the fresh air in. = He drew in the fresh air. b [no obj] : to let air flow through • Make sure the chimney is drawing properly. • The pipe draws well. 12 [+ obj] a : to take (money) from a bank account : withdraw - usually + from or out • He drew $100 from the bank. • She drew out the money. b : to receive (money) regularly from an employer, government, bank, etc. • He draws a salary of about $100,000. • He draws unemployment benefits. • She has started to draw her pension. c : to write (a check) and have money taken from a bank account • You are now authorized to draw checks from the corporate account. 13 Brit : to finish a game, contest, etc., without having a winner : tie [+ obj] • We drew [=(US) tied] the game 3–3. [no obj] • The teams drew [=(US) tied] 3–3. [=each team scored three points] - often + against • The teams have drawn against each other. 14 [+ obj] archery : to bend (a bow) by pulling back the string • He drew his bow and aimed at the target. 15 [+ obj] Brit : to cause (someone) to say more about something especially by questioning - often used as (be) drawn; usually + on • She refused to be drawn on whether the company is considering a merger. 16 [+ obj] technical of a boat : to need (a particular depth of water) in order to float • The ship draws 45 feet of water. draw a bead on - see bead draw a blank - see 2blank draw a/the line - see 1line draw blood - see blood draw in your horns - see 1horn draw off [phrasal verb]draw off (something) or draw (something) off : to take or remove (something) from a source or supply • They illegally drew off thousands of dollars that had been donated to the charity. draw on/upon [phrasal verb] 1 draw on literary : to come closer in time • It became colder as night drew on. [=approached] 2 draw on/upon (something) a : to use (something) as a source or supply • The family is drawing on/upon the community for support. b : to use (information, experience, knowledge, etc.) to make something • Her new book draws on her personal experience as a firefighter. • The report draws upon several recent studies. 3 draw on (something) : to breathe in smoke from (a cigarette, cigar, pipe, etc.) • He drew on his cigarette. draw out [phrasal verb] 1 draw (something) out or draw out (something) : to cause something to leave a source or supply • Trees draw water out of the soil. • Salt will draw out moisture from the vegetables. 2 draw (something) out or draw out (something) : to cause (something) to last longer than the usual or expected amount of time • Questions drew the meeting out for another hour. • The movie's love scene was drawn out. - see also drawn-out, long-drawn-out 3 draw (someone) out or draw out (someone) : to cause (someone) to talk freely • She tried to draw the frightened child out by asking him questions about his toys. • The reporter had an ability to draw out people. draw straws ✦If you draw straws, you choose a stick from a group of sticks that are different sizes but that are being held in such a way that they look like they are all the same size. Usually, whoever chooses the shortest stick or gets/draws the short straw will have to do a particular thing. • Let's draw straws to see who will drive. • He drew the short straw so he has to drive. draw the blinds/curtain/shades on: to end (something that has been continuing for a long time) • Let's draw the curtain on this investigation. - see also 1draw 5b (above) draw up [phrasal verb] 1 of a vehicle : to approach and stop at a place • A car drew up [=pulled up] in front of the house. 2 draw (yourself) up : to stand as straight and tall as you can • He drew himself up to (his) full height. - see also 1draw 10 (above) |
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fork out |
fork out (something) phrasal verb ( informal) to spend a lot of money on something, not because you want to but because you have to : [fork out (something) for/on] I had to fork out £600 on my car when I had it serviced. We don’t want to have to fork out for an expensive meal. |
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accommodation
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ac·com·mo·da·tion /əˌkɑːməˈdeɪʃən/ noun, pl -tions
1 a accommodations [plural] US : a place (such as a room in a hotel) where travelers can sleep and find other services • We need overnight accommodations [=lodging] for four people. • They weren't sure if they could provide food and accommodations for the whole group. • The accommodations on board the boat are a bit cramped. b [noncount] chiefly Brit : a place where people can live, stay, or work • We need overnight accommodation [=lodging] for four people. • office accommodation 2 formal a : an agreement that allows people, groups, etc., to work together [singular] • He hoped to reach an accommodation with the new owners. [noncount] • Negotiators were convinced that accommodation with the union was possible. b : something done to provide what is needed or wanted for someone or something [singular] • He changed his schedule as an accommodation to his clients. [noncount] • Changes were made for the accommodation of differing viewpoints. |
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inconvenience
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1in·con·ve·nience /ˌɪnkənˈviːnjəns/ noun, pl -nienc·es1 [noncount] : trouble or problems • I hope this delay doesn't cause you any inconvenience. • Bridge repairs cannot be done without some inconvenience to the public. 2 [count] : something that causes trouble or problems : something that is inconvenient • Parking in the city can be a major inconvenience. • The delay was an inconvenience.
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