1000 Most Common Words Flashcards
at
prep. used to express: 1 location, arrival, or time. 2 a value, rate, or point on a scale. 3 a state or condition. 4 direction towards. 5 the means by which something is done.
foreign
1 relating to a country or language other than your own. 2 dealing with other countries: foreign policy. 3 coming from outside: a a foreign influence. 4 (foreign to): not known to or typical of: cruelty is foreign to him.
recognize
1 know someone or something from having come across them before. 2 accept as genuine, legal, or valid: the qualifications are recognized by the Department of Education. 3 show official appreciation of.
impact
n. 1 an act of one object hitting another. 2 a noticeable effect or influence: man’s impact on the environment. v. 1 hit another object. 2 have a strong effect: the cuts impacted on the service the company provided. 3 press firmly into something. 4 (as adj.: impacted): (of a tooth) wedged between another tooth and the jaw.
list 2
v. (of a ship) lean over to one side. n. an instance of listing.
sing
v. 1 make musical sounds with the voice in the form of a song or tune. 2 make a whistling sound. sing someone’s praises: praise someone highly.
stuff
n. 1 matter, material, articles, or activities of a particular or unspecified kind. 2 basic characteristics: Helen was made of sterner stuff. 3 (your stuff): informal: the things you are knowledgeable about or experienced in: he knows his stuff. v. 1 fill tightly with something. 2 force tightly or hastily into a container or space. 3 fill out the skin of a dead animal or bird with material to restore its original shape and appearance. 4 fill the inside of an item of food with another type of food.
president
n. 1 the elected head of a republic. 2 the head of an organization.
catch
1 seize and hold something moving. 2 capture a person or animal. 3 reach in time and board a vehicle or be in time to see a person or event. 4 entangle or become entangled: she caught her foot in the bedspread. 5 surprise someone in the act of doing something wrong or embarrassing. 6 (be caught in): unexpectedly find yourself in an unwelcome situation. 7 gain a person’s interest. 8 see, hear, or understand: he said something Jess couldn’t catch. 9 hit someone or something. 10 become infected with an illness. 11 start burning. 12 Cricket: dismiss a batsman by catching the ball before it touches the ground. n. 1 an act of catching. 2 a device for fastening a door, window, etc. 3 a hidden problem. 4 a break in a person’s voice caused by emotion. 5 an amount of fish caught. catch your breath: 1 breathe in sharply from emotion. catch on: informal: 1 become popular. 2 understand. catch someone out: Brit.: 1 discover that someone has done something wrong. 2 take unawares: you might get caught out by the weather. catch the sun: 1 be in a sunny position. 2 Brit.: become tanned or sunburnt. catch up: do tasks which you should have done earlier. catch someone up (or catch with up with someone): succeed in reaching a person ahead of you.
management
n. 1 the action of managing. 2 the managers of an organization.
institution
n. 1 an important organization such as a university, bank, or Church. 2 an organization providing residential care for people with special needs. 3 an established law or custom.
member
n. 1 a person or organization belonging to a group or society. 2 a part of a complex structure. 3 old use: a part of the body.
person
n. 1 an individual human being. 2 the body of a human being: concealed on his person. 3 Grammar: a category used in the classification of pronouns or verb forms according to whether they indicate the speaker: (first person), the person spoken to: (second person), or a third party: (third person). in person: actually present.
stay 2
n. a large rope, wire, or cable used to support or brace something such as a ship’s mast.
last 3
n. a shaped stand or block used by a shoemaker for shaping or repairing a shoe or boot.
include
v. 1 have or contain something as part of a whole: the price includes breakfast. 2 make or treat as part of a whole.
involve
v. 1 (of a situation or event) include something as a necessary part or result. 2 cause to experience or participate in an activity or situation: what organizations will be involved in these projects? 3 (be/get involved): be or become occupied or engrossed in something. 4 (be involved): be in a romantic relationship with someone.
approach
v. 1 come near to someone or something in distance, time, or quality. 2 go to someone with a proposal or request. 3 start to deal with something in a particular way. n. 1 a way of dealing with something. 2 an initial proposal or request. 3 the action of approaching. 4 a way leading to a place.
line 2
v. cover the inner surface of something with a layer of different material. line your pocket: make money by dishonest means.
summer
n. the season after spring and before autumn.
might 1
modal v. (3rd sing. present: might) past of: may. 1 used to express possibility or make a suggestion. 2 used politely in questions and requests.
raise
v. 1 lift or move something upwards or into an upright position. 2 increase the amount, level, or strength of something. 3 cause something to be heard, felt, or considered: doubts have been raised. 4 collect or bring together money or people. 5 bring up a child. 6 breed or grow animals or plants. 7 bring a blockade or ban to an end. 8 Brit. informal: establish contact with someone by telephone or radio. 9 (raise something to): Math.: multiply a quantity to a specified power. n. N. Amer.: an increase in salary. raise the roof: make a lot of noise, especially by cheering.
improve
v. 1 make or become better. 2 (improve on): produce something better than.
book
n. 1 a written or printed work consisting of pages fastened together along one side and bound in covers. 2 a main division of a literary work or of the Bible. 3 a set of blank sheets bound together for writing in: an exercise book. 4 (books): a set of records or accounts. 5 a set of tickets, stamps, etc. bound together. v. 1 reserve accommodation, a ticket, etc. 2 (book in): register your arrival at a hotel. 3 engage a performer or guest for an event. 4 (be booked up): have all places or dates reserved. 5 make an official note of someone who has broken a law or rule. bring someone to book: officially ask someone to explain their behaviour. by the book: strictly according to the rules. in someone’s bad (or good) books: in disfavour (or favour) with someone. take a leaf out of someone’s book: imitate someone in a particular way. throw the book at: informal: reprimand or punish severely.
all
det. and predet. 1 the whole quantity or extent of. 2 any whatever: he denied all knowledge. 3 the greatest possible: with all speed. pron. everything or everyone. adv. 1 completely. 2 indicating an equal score: one-all. all along: from the beginning. all and sundry: everyone. all but: very nearly. all for: informal: strongly in favour of. all in: informal: exhausted. all in all: on the whole. all out: using all your effort. all round 1 in all respects. 2 for or by each person: drinks all round. all told: in total. at all: in any way. in all: in total. on all fours: on hands and knees. your all: your greatest effort.
lead 2
n. 1 a heavy bluish-grey metallic element. 2 graphite used as the part of a pencil that makes a mark.
dark
adj. 1 with little or no light. 2 of a deep colour. 3 (of skin, hair, or eyes) brown or black. 4 unpleasant or gloomy: the dark days of the war. 5 evil. 6 mysterious: a dark secret. 7 (darkest): humorous: most remote or uncivilized. n. 1 (the dark): the absence of light. 2 nightfall. in the dark: in a state of ignorance. a shot (or: stab) in the dark: wild guess.
suddenly
sudden: adj. occurring or done quickly and unexpectedly. suddenly adv.
fill
v. 1 make or become full. 2 block up a hole or gap. 3 be an overwhelming presence in: the smell of garlic filled the air. 4 make someone experience a feeling. 5 satisfy a need. 6 occupy time. 7 hold and perform the duties of a position or role. n. (your fill): as much as you want or can bear. fill in: act as a substitute. fill someone in: give someone information. fill something in: Brit.: complete a form. fill out: put on weight.
current
adj. 1 happening or being used or done now: current events. 2 in common or general use. n. 1 a body of water or air moving in a particular direction. 2 a flow of electrically charged particles.
even 1
adj. 1 flat and smooth; level. 2 equal in number, amount, or value. 3 regular: an even pace. 4 equally balanced. 5 placid; calm: an even temper. 6 (of a number) able to be divided by two without a remainder. v. make or become even. adv. used for emphasis: he knows even less than I do. even as: at the very same time as. even if: despite the possibility that. even so: nevertheless. even though though: despite the fact that.
film
n. 1 a thin flexible strip of plastic or other material coated with light-sensitive material, used in a camera to make photos or motion pictures. 2 a story or event recorded by a camera and shown in a cinema or on television. 3 motion pictures considered as an art or industry: feminist writings on film. 4 material in the form of a very flexible sheet. 5 a thin layer covering a surface. v. make a film of.
adult
n. a person who is fully grown and developed. adj. 1 fully grown and developed. 2 suitable for or typical of adults.
official
adj. 1 relating to an authority or public organization. 2 permitted or done by a person or group in a position of authority. n. a person holding public office or having official duties.
with
prep. 1 accompanied by. 2 in the same direction as. 3 possessing; having. 4 indicating the instrument used to perform an action or the material used for a purpose: cut the fish with a knife. 5 in opposition to or competition with. 6 indicating the way or attitude in which a person does something. 7 indicating responsibility: leave it with me. 8 in relation to. 9 affected by. 10 employed by. 11 using the services of. 12 indicating separation or removal from something. with it: informal: 1 up to date or fashionable. 2 alert and able to understand things quickly.
perform
v. 1 carry out or complete an action or function. 2 function or do something to a specified standard: the car performs well at low speeds. 3 present entertainment to an audience.
himself
pron. [third person sing.] 1 used as the object of a verb or preposition to refer to a male person or animal previously mentioned as the subject of the clause. 2 he or him personally.
letter
n. 1 a sign representing one or more of the sounds used in speech; any of the symbols of an alphabet. 2 a written communication, sent by post or messenger. 3 the precise terms of something: the letter of the law. 4 (letters): knowledge of literature. v. write something with letters. to the letter: precisely and accurately.
chair
n. 1 a separate seat for one person, with a back and four legs. 2 the person in charge of a meeting or an organization. 3 a post as professor. v. be in charge of a meeting.
come
v. (comes, coming, came; past part.: come) 1 move or reach towards or into a place: Jess came into the kitchen. 2 arrive at a place. 3 happen. 4 have or achieve a certain position: she came second. 5 pass into a specified condition or state of mind: his shirt came undone. 6 be sold or available in a particular form: they come in three sizes. 7 (as adj.: coming) likely to be successful in the future: a coming man. 8 informal: have an orgasm. prep.: informal: when a specified time is reached. come about: happen. come across: 1 give a particular impression. 2 meet or find by chance. come by: manage to get. come down to: be dependent on a factor. come from: originate in. come in: prove to be: it came in handy. come of: result from. come off: 1 succeed. 2 end up in a specified situation. come on: 1 (of a state or condition) begin. 2 (also: come upon): meet or find by chance. come out: 1 (of a fact) become known. 2 declare yourself as being for or against something. come out with: say in a sudden or incautious way. come round: esp. Brit.: 1 recover consciousness. 2 be converted to another person’s opinion. come to: 1 recover consciousness. 2 (of an expense) amount to. come up: (of a situation or problem) arise. come what may: no matter what happens.
officer
n. 1 a person holding a position of authority in the armed services. 2 a person holding a position of authority in an organization or the government. 3 a policeman or policewoman.
state
n. 1 the condition of someone or something at a particular time. 2 a nation or territory considered as an organised political unit under one government. 3 an area forming part of a federal republic. 4 (the States): the United States of America. 5 the government of a country. 6 ceremony associated with monarchy or government: he was buried in state. 7 (a state): informal: an agitated, untidy, or dirty condition. v express definitely in speech or writing. state-of-the-art: using the newest ideas and most up-to-date features.
pull
v. 1 apply force to something so as to move it towards yourself. 2 remove something by pulling. 3 move steadily: the bus pulled away. 4 move yourself with effort: she pulled away from him. 5 strain a muscle or ligament. 6 attract the interest of a potential customer. 7 (pull at/on): take deep breaths from a cigarette. 8 informal: cancel an event. 9 Brit. informal: succeed in attracting someone sexually. 10 informal: bring out a weapon for use. n. 1 an act of pulling. 2 a deep drink of something or a breath of smoke from a cigarette or pipe. 3 a force, influence, or attraction. pull back: retreat. pull someone’s leg: deceive someone for a joke. pull something off: informal: succeed in achieving or winning something difficult. pull out: withdraw. pull strings: make use of your influence to gain an advantage. pull yourself together; regain your self-control. pull your weight: do your fair share of work.
sign
n. 1 an indication that something exists, is happening, or may happen: I dared not show any sign of weakness. 2 a signal, gesture, or notice giving information or an instruction. 3 a symbol or word used to represent something in algebra, music, or other subjects. 4 each of the twelve divisions of the zodiac. v. 1 write your name on a document, letter, etc. to show that you have written it, or as an indication of agreement. 2 recruit a sports player, musician, etc. by signing a contract. 3 use gestures to give information or instructions. sign off: end a letter, broadcast, or other message. sign on: 1 commit yourself to a job. 2 Brit.: register as unemployed. sign someone on: employ someone. sign up: commit yourself to a job, course of study, etc.
draw
v. 1 produce a picture or diagram by making lines and marks on paper. 2 pull of drag a vehicle so as to make it follow behind. 3 pull or move in a particular direction: the train drew into the station. 4 open or shut curtains. 5 arrive at a point in time: the campaign drew to a close. 6 take from a container: he drew his gun. 7 (draw something from/out): get or take something from a source. 8 take in a breath. 9 be the cause of a particular response. 10 attract to a place or an event. 11 persuade to reveal something: he refused to be drawn on what would happen. 12 reach a conculsion. 13 finish a contest or game with an even score. n. 1 an even score at the end of a game or match. 2 an act of selecting names at random for prizes, sporting fixtures,etc. 3 a person or thing that is very attractive or interesting. 4 an act of inhaling smoke from a cigarette. draw in: (of successive days) become shorter. draw the line at: refuse to do or tolerate. draw on: 1 (of a period of time) pass by and approach its end. 2 suck smoke from a cigarette or pipe. draw something out: make something last longer. draw someone out: persuade someone to be more talkative. draw up: come to a halt. draw something up: prepare a plan or document.
often
(also old use or N. Amer.: oftentimes) adv. 1 frequently. 2 in many cases.
public
adj. 1 relating or available to the people as a whole. 2 involved in the affairs of the community: a public figure. 3 intended to be seen or heard by people in general: a public apology. 4 provided by the state rather than an independent, commercial company. n. (the public): 1 ordinary people in general. 2 a group of people with a particular interest: the reading public.
threat
n. 1 a stated intention to harm someone, especially if they do not do what you want. 2 a person or thing likely to cause harm or danger. 3 the possibility of trouble or danger.
human
adj. 1 relating to human beings. 2 showing the better qualities of human beings, such as kindness. n. (also: human being) a person.
hospital
n. an institution providing medical treatment and nursing care for sick or injured people.
community
n. 1 a group of people living together in one place. 2 (the community): the people of an area as a group; society. 3 a group of people sharing a religion, race, or profession: the scientific community. 4 a group of animals or plants living or growing in the same place.
audience
n. 1 the people gathered to see or listen to a play, concert, film, etc. 2 a formal interview with a person in authority.
everything
pron. 1 all things, or all the things of a group. 2 the most important thing: money isn’t everything.
drop
v. 1 fall or cause to fall. 2 sink to the ground. 3 make or become lower or less: he dropped his voice. 4 abandon a course of action. 5 (often: drop someone/thing off) set down or unload a passenger or goods. 6 mention something casually. 7 lose a point, match, etc. n. 1 a small round or pear-shaped amount of liquid. 2 an instance of dropping. 3 a small drink: a drop of water. 4 an abrupt fall or slope. 5 a sweet. drop by/in: visit informally and briefly. drop someone a line: informal send someone a short letter: drop off: fall asleep. drop out: 1 stop participating. 2 live an alternative lifestyle.
bring
v. (bring, bringing, brought) 1 carry or accompany to a place. 2 cause to be in a particular position or state. 3 cause someone to receive: his first novel brought him a great deal of money. 4 (bring yourself to do): force yourself to do something unpleasant. 5 begin legal action. bring something about: cause something to happen. bring something forward: move a planned event to an earlier time. bring the house down: make an audience laugh or applaud very enthusiastically. bring something off: achieve something successfully. bring something on: cause something unpleasant to occur. bring something out: 1 produce and launch a new product or publication. 2 emphasize a feature. bring someone round: 1 make someone conscious again. 2 persuade someone to agree to something. bring something to bear: apply influence or pressure. bring someone/thing up: 1 look after a child until it is an adult. 2 raise a matter for discussion.
sex
n. 1 either of the two main categories (male and female) into which humans and most other living things are divided on the basis of their reproductive functions. 2 the fact of being male or female. 3 the group of all members of either sex. 4 sexual intercourse. v. (sex something up): informal: present something in a more interesting or lively way.
be
v. (sing. present: am; are; is; pl. present: are; 1st and 3rd sing. past: was; 2nd sing. past and pl. past: were; present subjunctive: be; past subjunctive: were; present part.: being; past part. been) 1 exist; be present. 2 happen. 3 have the specified state, nature, or role: I want to be a teacher. 4 come; go; visit. aux. v. 1 used with a present participle to form continuous tenses: they are coming. 2 used with a past participle to form the passive voice: it is said. 3 used to show something that is due to, may, or should happen. the be-all and end-all: informal: the most important aspect.
wife
n. a married woman in relation to her husband.
thank
v. 1 express gratitude to. 2 ironic: blame or hold responsible: you have only yourself to thank. thank you: a polite expression of gratitude.
without
prep. 1 not accompanied by or having the use of. 2 in which the action mentioned does not happen. adv. old use: outside.
mean 2
adj. 1 esp. Brit. unwilling to give or share things. 2 unkind or unfair. 3 N. Amer.: bad-tempered or aggressive. 4 poor in quality or appearance. 5 dated: of a low social class. 6 informal: excellent.
business
n. 1 a person’s regular occupation. 2 commercial activity. 3 a commercial organization. 4 work to be done or things to be attended to. 5 a person’s concern: it’s none of your business. 6 informal: a difficult matter. 7 (the business): Brit. informal: an excellent person or thing. mind your own business: avoid interfering in other people’s affairs.
bank 1
n. 1 the land alongside a river or lake. 2 a long, high slope, mound, or mass: mud banks. 3 a set of similar things grouped together in rows. v. 1 make or form into a bank. 2 (of an aircraft or vehicle) tilt sideways in making a turn.
anything
pron. a thing of any kind, no matter what. anything but: not at all.
citizen
n. 1 a person who is legally recognized as a member of a country. 2 an inhabitant of a town or city.
value
n. 1 the importance or usefulness of something. 2 the amount of money that something is worth. 3 (clues): standards of behaviour. 4 Math.: the amount represented by a letter, symbol, or number. 5 the relative length of the sound represented by a musical note. v. 1 estimate the value of. 2 consider to be important or useful.
according
adv. (according to) 1 as stated by. 2 following or agreeing with: cook the rice according to the instructions.
TV
abbr. television.
speech
n. 1 the expression of thoughts and feelings using spoken language. 2 a formal talk delivered to an audience. 3 a sequence of lines written for one character in a play.
down 2
n. soft fine feathers or hairs
window
n. 1 an opening in a wall of a building or vehicle, fitted with glass to let in light and allow people to see out. 2 an opening through which customers are served in a bank, ticket office, etc. 3 a framed area on a computer screen for viewing information. 4 a transparent panel in an envelope to show an address. 5 an opportunity for action.
cancer
n. 1 a disease caused by an uncontrolled division of abnormal cells in a part of the body. 2 a harmful growth or tumour resulting from an uncontrolled division of abnormal cells. 3 something evil or destructive that spreads quickly and is hard to destroy.
information
n. 1 the facts or knowledge that are provided or learned. 2 computer data.
tend 1
v. 1 frequently behave in a particular way or have a certain characteristic. 2 go or move in a particular direction.
family
n. 1 a group consisting of parents and their children. 2 a group of people related by blood or marriage. 3 the children of a person or couple. 4 all the descendants of a common ancestor: the house has been in the family for years. 5 a group of things that are alike in some way. 6 a group of related plants or animals. adj. suitable for children as well as adults.
think
v. (thinks, thinking, thought) 1 have a particular opinion, belief, or idea about someone or something. 2 direct your mind towards someone or something. 3 (think of/about): take into account or consideration. 4 (think of/about): consider the possibility or advantages of: he was thinking of going to America. 5 (think of): call something to mind. n. an act of thinking. think better of: decide not to do something after reconsidering it. think nothing (or: little) of: consider an activity other people see as odd, wrong, or difficult to be easy or normal. think something over: consider something carefully. think twice: consider a course of action carefully before going ahead with it. think something up: informal: invent something.
up
adv. 1 towards a higher place or position. 2 to the place where someone is: he crept up behind her. 3 at or to a higher level or value. 4 into the desired or a proper condition: the government set up an inquiry. 5 out of bed. 6 in a publicly visible place: sticking up posters. 7 (of the sun) visible in the sky. 8 towards the north. 9 Brit.: towards or in the capital or a major city. 10 into a happy mood. prep. 1 from a lower to a higher point of. 2 from one end of a street or other area to another. adj. 1 directed or moving towards a higher place or position. 2 at an end. 3 (of the road) being repaired 4 cheerful. 5 (of a computer system) working properly. v. increase a level or amount. something is up: informal: something unusual is happening. up against: close to or touching. up and down: in various places throughout. up before: appearing for a hearing in the presence of a judge, magistrate, etc. up for: 1 available for. 2 being considered for. 3 (OFTEN: up for it) informal: ready to take part in something. up to: 1 as far as. 2 (also: up until) until. what’s up?: informal: 1 what is going on 2 what is the matter?
discuss
v. 1 talk about something so as to reach a decision. 2 talk or write about a topic in detail.
relationship
n. 1 the way in which two or more people or things are connected. 2 the way in which two or more people or groups behave towards each other. 3 a loving and sexual association between two people.
mission
n. 1 an important assignment involving travel abroad. 2 an organization or institution involved in a long-term assignment abroad. 3 a military or scientific expedition. 4 the requirement of a religious organization to spread its faith. 5 a strongly felt aim or calling.
newspaper
n. a daily or weekly publication containing news, articles, and advertisements.
victim
n. 1 a person harmed or killed as a result of a crime or accident. 2 a person who has been tricked: the victim of a hoax. fall victim to: be hurt, killed, or destroyed by.
charge
v. 1 ask an amount of money as a price. 2 formally accuse someone of something. 3 rush forward in attack. 4 rush in a particular direction. 5 entrust with a task. 6 store electrical energy in a battery. 7 load or fill a container, gun, etc. 8 fill with a quality or emotion: the air was charged with menace. n. 1 a price asked. 2 a formal accusation made against a prisoner brought to trial. 3 responsibility for care or control. 4 a person or thing entrusted to someone’s care. 5 a headlong rush forward. 6 a property of matter that is responsible for electrical phenomena, existing in a positive or negative form. 7 energy stored chemically in a battery for conversion into electricity. 8 a quantity of explosives needed to fire a gun or similar weapon. press charges: accuse someone formally of a crime so that they can be brought to trial.
hard
adj. 1 solid, firm, and rigid. 2 requiring a great deal of endurance or effort; difficult. 3 (of a person) not showing any signs or weakness; tough. 4 done with a great deal of force or strength: a hard whack. 5 harsh or unpleasant to the senses. 6 (of information or a subject of study) concerned with precise facts that can be proved: hard science. 7 (of drink) strongly alcoholic. 8 (of a drug) very additive. 9 (of water) containing mineral salts. adv. 1 with a great deal of effort or force. 2 so as to be solid or firm. hard and fast: (of a rule) fixed and definitive. hard done by: Brit.: harshly or unfairly treated. hard feelings: feelings of resentment. hard up: informal: short of money.
ahead
adv. 1 further forward in space or time. 2 in the lead. ahead of: 1 before. 2 earlier than planned or expected.
majority
n. 1 the greater number. 2 Brit.: the number of votes by which one party or candidate in an election defeats the opposition. 3 the age when a person is legally a full adult, usually 18 or 21.
inside
n. 1 the inner side, part, or surface of something. 2 (insides): informal: the stomach and bowels. 3 the side of a bend where the edge is shorter. adj. situated on or in, or coming from, the inside. prep. and adv. 1 situated or moving within. 2 informal: in prison. 3 in less than the period of time specified.
article
n. 1 a particular object. 2 a piece of writing in a newspaper or magazine. 3 a clause or paragraph of a legal documents. 4 (articles) a period of professional training as a solicitor, architect, etc. v. (be articled)(of a solicitor, architect, etc.) be employed under contract as a trainee. article of faith: a firmly held belief.
parent
n. 1 a father or mother. 2 an animal or plant from which younger ones are derived. 3 an organization which owns or controls a number of smaller organizations. v. be or act as a parent to.
site
n. 1 a place where something is or will be located. 2 a place where an event or activity is happening or has happened. 3 a website. v. build or locate something in a particular place.
and
conj. 1 used to connect words, clauses, or sentences. 2 used to connect two identical words to show gradual change, continuing action, or great extent: getting better and better. 3 (connecting two numbers) plus. 4 informal: (after a verb) to: try and do it.
disease
n. a disorder in a human, animal, or plant, caused by infection, diet, or by faulty functioning of a process.
candidate
1 a person who applies fora job or is nominated for election. 2 Brit. a person taking an exam. 3 a person or thing seen as suitable for a particular fate, treatment, or position: she was the perfect candidate for a biography.
born
adj. 1 existing as a result of birth. 2 (-born): having a particular nationality: a Spanish-born footballer. 3 having a particular natural ability: he was a born engineer. 4 (born of): existing as a result of a situation or feeling. born and bred: by birth and upbringing. I (or she, etc.) wasn’t born yesterday: I am (or she, etc. is) not easily deceived.
always
adv. 1 at all times. 2 forever. 3 repeatedly. 4 if all else fails.
simple
adj. 1 easily understood or done. 2 plain and basic: a simple white blouse. 3 composed of a single element; not compound. 4 of very low intelligence. 5 of low status; humble. 6 (of interest) payable on the sum loaned only. Compare with: compound.
voice
n. 1 the sound produced in a person’s larynx and uttered through the mouth, as speech or song. 2 the ability to speak or sing. 3 the range of pitch or type of tone with which a person sings, e.g. soprano. 4 a vocal part in a musical composition. 5 an opinion or the right to express an opinion. 6 Grammar: a form of a verb showing the relation of the subject to the action v. 1 express in words. 2 (as adj.: voiced): (of a speech sound) produced with vibration of the vocal cords.
whom
pron. used instead of ‘who’ as the object of a verb or preposition.
future
n. 1 (the future): time that is still to come. 2 events or conditions occurring or existing in time still to come. 3 a prospect of success or happiness: I might have a future as an artist. 4 Grammar: a tense of verbs expressing events that have not yet happened. adj. 1 existing or occurring in the future. 2 destined to hold a specified position: his future wife. 3 Grammar: (of a tense) expressing an event yet to happen.
popular
adj. 1 liked or admired by many people. 2 intended for or suited to the general public: the popular press. 3 (of a belief or attitude) widely held among the general public. 4 (of political activity) carried on by the people as a whole: a popular revolt.
product
n. 1 an article or substance manufactured for sale. 2 a result: her suntan was the product of a sunbed. 3 a substance produced during a natural, chemical, or manufacturing process. 4 Math.: a quantity obtained by multiplying quantities together.
sea
n. 1 the large continuous area of salt water that surrounds the land masses of the earth. 2 a particular area of this. 3 a vast expanse or quantity: a sea of faces. at sea: 1 sailing on the sea. 2 confused; uncertain.
various
adj. different from one another; of different kinds or sorts. det. and pron. more than one; individual and separate.
add
v. 1 join to or put with something else. 2 put together two or more numbers or amounts to find their total value. 3 (add up) increase in amount, number, or degree. 4 say as a further remark. 5 (add up) informal: make sense.
let 1
v. 1 allow someone to do something or something to happen. 2 used to express an intention, suggestion, or order: let’s have a drink. 3 used to express an assumption on which a theory or calculation is to be based: let A stand for X. 4 esp. Brit. allow someone to have the use of a room or property in return for payment. n. Brit.: a period during which a room or property is rented. let alone: not to mention. let someone down: fail to support or help someone. let someone go: allow someone to go free. let yourself go: 1 act in a relaxed way. 2 become careless in your habits or appearance. let someone off: 1 choose not to punish someone. 2 excuse someone from a task. let something off: cause a gun, firework, or bomb to fire or explode. let up: informal: become less intense. to let: available for rent.
instead
adv. 1 as an alternative. 2 (instead of): in place of.
say
v. (says, saying, said) 1 speak words so as to communicate something. 2 (of a piece of writing or a symbol) convey information or instructions. 3 (of a clock or watch) indicate a time. 4 (be said): be claimed or reported. 5 (say something for): present a consideration in favour of: he had nothing to say for himself. 6 suggest something as an example or theory. n. an opportunity to state your opinion or to influence events. go without saying: be obvious. say the word: give permission or instructions.
moment
n. 1 a brief period of time. 2 an exact point in time. 3 formal: importance: the issues were of little moment.
or
conj. 1 used to link alternatives. 2 introducing a word that means the same as a preceding word or phrase, or that explains it. 3 otherwise.
air
n. 1 the invisible mixture of gases surrounding the earth. 2 the open space above the surface of the earth. 3 an impression: she answered with a faint air of boredom. 4 (airs) a pretentious or condescending way of behaving, intended to impress other people. 5 a short, tuneful piece of music. v. 1 express an opinion or complaint publicly. 2 broadcast a programme on radio or television. 3 expose a room or washed laundry to fresh or warm air. 4 [as adj.] using aircraft: air travel. airs and graces: Brit.: pretentious or condescending behaviour intended to impress other people. on (or off) the air: being (or not being) broadcast on radio or television. up in the air (of an issue): not yet settled or resolved. walk on air: feel very pleased or happy.
lead 1
v. 1 cause a person or animal to go with you. 2 be a route or means of access: the street led into the square. 3 (lead to): result in. 4 influence someone to do or believe something. 5 be in charge of other people. 6 have the advantage in a race or game. 7 be superior to a competitor. 8 have a particular way of life. 9 (lead up to): come before or result in. 10 (lead someone on): deceive someone into believing that you are attracted to them. n. 1 an example for other people to follow: others followed our lead. 2 (the lead): a position of advantage in a contest. 3 the chief part in a play or film. 4 a clue to be followed in solving a problem. 5 Brit.: a strap or cord for restraining and guiding a dog. 6 Brit.: a wire taking electric current from a source to an appliance, or connecting two points of a circuit together. adj. playing the chief part in a musical group: the lead singer. lead someone up the garden path: informal: give misleading clues or signals to someone.
either
conj. and adv. 1 used before the first of two alternatives specified. 2 [adv.]: used to indicate a similarity or link with a statement just made: You don’t like him do you? I don’t either. 3 for that matter; moreover. det. and pron. 1 one or the other of two people or things. 2 each of two.
score
n. 1 the number of points, goals, runs, etc. achieved by a person or side in a game. 2 a group or set of twenty. 3 (scores of): a large number of. 4 the written music for a composition showing all the vocal and instrumental parts. v. 1 gain a point, goal, run, etc. in a game. 2 be worth a number of points. 3 record the score during a game. 4 cut a mark on a surface. 5 (score something out/through): delete part of a piece of writing by drawing a line through it. 6 orchestrate or arrange a piece of music. settle a score: take revenge on someone.
total
adj. 1 comprising the whole number or amount. 2 complete: a total stranger. n. a total number or amount. v. 1 amount to a total number. 2 find the total of.
including
prep. containing as part of the whole in question.
store
n. 1 an amount or supply kept for use as needed. 2 (stores): equipment and food kept for use by an army, navy, or other institution. 3 a place where things are kept for future use or sale. 4 Brit.: a large shop selling different types of goods. 5 N. Amer.: a shop. v. 1 keep for future use. 2 enter information in the memory of a computer. in store: about to happen. set store by: consider to be of a particular level of importance.
manage
v. 1 be in charge of people or an organization. 2 succeed in doing: she finally managed to call a cab. 3 be able to cope despite difficulties. 4 control the use of money or other resources. 5 be free to attend an appointment.
quickly
quick: adj. 1 moving fast. 2 lasting or taking a short time: a quick worker. 3 with little or no delay. 4 intelligent or alert. n. (the quick): the tender flesh below the growing part of a fingernail or toenail. cut someone to the quick: upset someone very much. quickly adv.
most
det. and pron. 1 greatest in amount or degree. 2 the majority of. adv. 1 to the greatest extent. 2 forming the superlative of adjectives and adverbs. 3 very. make the most of: use something to the best advantage.
rich
adj. 1 having a great deal of money or property. 2 (of a country) having valuable natural resources or a successful economy. 3 made of or produced with expensive materials or workmanship. 4 plentiful. 5 having something in large amounts: fruits rich in vitamins. 6 (of food) containing much fat, sugar, etc.: rich sauces. 7 (of a colour, sound, or smell) pleasantly deep and strong. 8 (of soil or land) fertile.
wait
v. 1 stay where you are or delay action until a particular time or event. 2 be delayed or postponed. 3 (wait on): act as an attendant to. 4 serve food and drink to people at a meal or in a restaurant. n. a period of waiting. in wait: watching for someone and preparing to attack them.
fly 1
v. 1 (of a winged creature or aircraft) move through the air. 2 control the flight of an aircraft. 3 travel or transport in an aircraft. 4 go or move quickly. 5 move quickly through the air. 6 flutter in the wind. 7 (of a flag) be displayed on a flagpole. 8 (fly at): attack verbally or physically. 9 old use: run away. n. 1 (Brit.: also: flies) an opening at the crotch of a pair of trousers, closed with a zip or buttons. 2 a flap of material covering the opening of a tent. fly in the face of: be the opposite of what is usual or expected. fly into a rage (or: temper): become suddenly angry. fly off the handle: informal: lose your temper suddenly.
know
v. (knows, knowing, knew; past part.: known) 1 be aware of something as a result of observing, asking, or being informed. 2 be absolutely sure of something. 3 be familiar with. 4 have a good command of a subject or language. 5 have personal experience of. 6 (be known as): be thought of as having a specified characteristic or title. be in the know: informal: be aware of something known only to a few people. know the ropes: have experience of the correct way of doing something.
great
adj. 1 considerably above average in amount, extent, or strength. 2 considerably above average in ability, quality, or importance. 3 informal: excellent. 4 used to emphasize something: he’s a great cricket fan. 5 (Greater): referring to an area that includes the centre of a city and a large urban area round it: Greater London. n. a famous and successful person.
art 2
old-fashioned or dialect 2nd person sing. present of be.
plant
n. 1 a living thing that grows in the ground, having roots with which it absorbs substances and leaves in which it makes nutrients by photosynthesis. 2 a place where an industrial or manufacturing process takes place. 3 machinery used in an industrial or manufacturing process. 4 a person placed in a group as a spy. 5 a thing put among someone’s belongings to make them appear guilty of something. v. 1 place a seed, bulb, or plant in the ground so that it can grow. 2 place something in a specified position. 3 secretly place a bomb. 4 put something among someone’s belongings to make them appear guilty of something. 5 send someone to join a group to act as a spy. 6 fix an idea in someone’s mind.
glass
n. 1 a hard transparent substance made by fusing sand with soda and lime. 2 a drinking container made of glass. 3 esp. Brit.: a mirror. v. cover or enclose with glass.
will 2
n. 1 a person’s power to decide on something and take action. 2 (also: willpower) a person’s ability to control their actions and thoughts. 3 a desire or intention: the will to live. 4 a legal document containing a person’s instructions about what should be done with their money and property after their death. v. 1 intend or desire something to happen. 2 bring about by the use of mental powers. 3 leave something to someone in a will. at will: at whatever time or in whatever way you wish.
hour
n. 1 a period of 60 minutes, one of the twenty-four parts that a day is divided into. 2 a point in time: you can’t turn him away at this hour. 3 a period set aside for a particular purpose or activity: leisure hours.
shake
v. 1 move quickly and jerkily up and down or to and fro. 2 tremble with strong emotion. 3 shock or disturb. 4 get rid of or put an end to: old habits he couldn’t shake off. 5 make a threatening gesture with: he shook his fist. n. 1 an act of shaking. 2 informal: a milkshake. in two shakes (of a lamb’s tail): informal: very quickly. no great shakes: informal: not very good. shake down: settle down. shake hands (with someone): hold someone’s right hand in your own when meeting or leaving them, to congratulate them, or as a sign of agreement. shake someone up: stir someone into action. shake something up: make major changes to something.
market
n. 1 a regular gathering for the buying and selling of food, livestock, or other goods. 2 an outdoor space or large hall where people offer goods for sale. 3 a particular area of trade or business. 4 demand for a particular product or service. v. advertise or promote something. on the market: available for sale.
expect
v. 1 think that something is likely to happen. 2 regard someone as likely to do or be something. 3 believe that someone will arrive soon. 4 require or demand something because it is appropriate or a person’s duty: we expect great things of you. 5 (be expecting): informal: be pregnant.
bit 1
n. 1 a small piece or quantity. 2 (a bit): a short time or distance. a bit: rather; slightly. bit by bit: gradually. do your bit: informal: make a useful contribution. to bits: 1 into pieces. 2 informal: very much.
right
adj. 1 on or towards the side of a person or of a thing which is to the east when the person or thing is facing north. 2 morally good or justified. 3 factually correct. 4 most appropriate: the right man for the job. 5 in a satisfactory, sound, or normal condition. 6 relating to a right-wing person or group. 7 Brit. informal: complete: I felt a right idiot. adv. 1 on or to the right side. 2 to the furthest extent; completely: the car spun right off the track. 3 exactly; directly. 4 correctly or satisfactorily. 5 informal: immediately. n. 1 that which is morally right. 2 an entitlement to have or do something. 3 (rights): the authority to perform, publish, or film a particular work or event. 4 (the right): the right-hand side or direction. 5 a right turn. 6 (the Right): a right-wing group or political party. v. 1 restore to a normal or upright position. 2 restore to a normal or correct condition. 3 make up for a wrong. by rights: if things were fair or correct. in your own right: as a result of your own qualifications or efforts. right away: immediately.
model
n. 1 a three-dimensional copy of a person or thing, typically on a smaller scale. 2 something used as an example. 3 a simplified mathematical description of a system or process. 4 an excellent example of a quality. 5 a person employed to display clothes by wearing them. 6 a person employed to pose for an artist. 7 a particular version of a product. v. 1 make or shape a figure in clay or wax. 2 (in drawing and painting) make something appear three-dimensional. 3 make a mathematical model of something. 4 (model something on): use something as an example for something else. 5 work as a model.
meet 2
adj. old use: suitable or proper.
whole
adj. 1 complete; entire. 2 used to emphasise a large extent or number: a whole range of issues. 3 in one piece. n. 1 a thing that is complete in itself. 2 (the whole): all of something. adv. informal: entirely; wholly: a whole new meaning. as a whole: as a single unit; overall. on the whole: taking everything into account; in general. the whole nine yards: informal, esp. N. Amer.: everything possible or available.
cell
n. 1 a small room for a prisoner, monk, or nun. 2 the smallest unit of a living organism that is able to reproduce and perform other functions. 3 a small compartment in a larger structure. 4 a small group that is part of a larger political organization. 5 a device for producing electricity by chemical action or light.
commercial
adj. 1 relating to or involved in commerce. 2 making or intended to make a profit. 3 (of radio or television) funded by broadcast advertisements. n. a television or radio advertisement.
provide
v. 1 make something available for use; supply. 2 (provide someone with): equip or supply someone with something. 3 (provide for): make enough preparation or arrangements for.
team
n. 1 a group of players forming one side in a competitive game or sport. 2 two or more people working together. 3 two or more horses harnessed together to pull a vehicle. v. 1 (team up): come together as a team to achieve a shared goal. 2 (team something with): match something with: a pinstripe suit teamed with a white shirt.
important
adj. 1 of great significance or value. 2 (of a person) having great authority or influence.
part
n. 1 a piece or section which is combined with others to make up a whole. 2 some but not all of something. 3 a specified fraction of a whole: a twentieth part. 4 a measure allowing comparison between the amount of different ingredients used in a mixture: a mix of one part cement to five parts ballast. 5 a role played by an actor or actress. 6 a person’s contribution to a situation. 7 (parts) informal: a region. v. 1 move apart or divide to leave a central space. 2 leave someone’s company. 3 (part with): give up possession of. adv. partly: part jazz, part blues. on the part of: used to say someone is responsible for something. part company: go in different directions. take the part of: give support to.
need
v. 1 want something because it is essential or very important. 2 used to express what should or must be done: need I say more? n. 1 a situation in which something is necessary or must be done: I was in need of a haircut. 2 a thing that is needed. 3 a state of being poor or in great difficulty.
dead
adj. 1 no longer alive. 2 (of a part of the body) numb. 3 showing no emotion: a cold, dead voice. 4 no longer current or important. 5 lacking activity or excitement. 6 (of equipment) not working. 7 complete: dead silence. adv. 1 completely; exactly: dead on time. 2 directly: dead ahead. 3 Brit. informal: very. the dead of night: the quietest, darkest part of the night. the dead of winter: the coldest part of winter.
although
conj. 1 in spite of the fact that. 2 but.
data
n. 1 facts or statistics used for reference or analysis. 2 the quantities, characters, or symbols operated on by a computer.
tend 2
v. care for or look after.
quite
adv. 1 to the greatest degree; completely. 2 to a certain extent; moderately. exclam. expressing agreement.
second 3
v. Brit. temporarily move a worker to another position or role.
will 1
modal v. (3rd sing. present: will; past: would) 1 expressing the future tense. 2 expressing a strong intention about the future. 3 expressing events that are certain to occur: accidents will happen. 4 expressing a request: will you stop here, please? 5 expressing desire, consent, or willingness: will you have a cognac? 6 expressing facts about ability or capacity: it will float on water.
beautiful
adj. 1 very pleasing to the senses. 2 of a very high standard.
government
n. 1 the group of people who govern a state. 2 the system by which a state or community is governed. 3 the action or way of governing a state: she believed in strong government.
hold 2
n. a storage space in the lower part of a ship of aircraft.
head
n. 1 the upper part of the body, containing the brain, mouth, and sense organs. 2 a person in charge. 3 the front, forward, or upper part of something. 4 a person considered as a unit: fifty pounds per head. 5 [treated as pl.] a number of cattle or sheep: seventy head of cattle. 6 a compact mass of leaves or flowers at the top of a stem. 7 a part of a computer or a tape or video recorder which transfers information to and from a tape or disk. 8 the source of a river or stream. 9 (heads): he side of a coin which has the image of a head. 10 pressure of water or steam in an enclosed space a good head of steam. adj. chief. v. 1 be or act as the head of: the mayor headed the procession. 2 give a heading to. 3 move in a specified direction: we headed north. 4 (head someone/thing off) intercept someone or something and force them to change direction. 5 Football: hit the ball with the head. come to a head: reach a crisis. go to someone’s head: 1 (of alcohol) make someone slightly drunk. 2 (of success) make someone feel too proud. head first: 1 with the head in front of the rest of the body. 2 without thinking beforehand. a head for: a talent for or ability to cope with: a head for heights. head over heels: madly in love. a head start: an advantage gained at the beginning. make head or tail of: understand at all. off the top of your head: without careful thought.
agency
n. 1 an organization or government department providing a particular service. 2 the action or intervention of someone or something: channels carved by the agency of running water.
eight
cardinal number: 1 one more than seven; 8. (Roman numeral: viii or VIII.) 2 an eight-oared rowing boat or its crew.
radio
n. 1 the sending and receiving of electromagnetic waves carrying sound messages. 2 the activity or medium of broadcasting in sound. 3 a device for receiving radio programmes, or for sending and receiving radio messages. v. send a message by radio.
choice
n. 1 an act of choosing. 2 the right or ability to choose. 3 a range from which to choose: a choice of over forty fabrics. 4 a person or thing chosen. adj. of very good quality.
more
det. and pron. a greater or additional amount or degree. adv. 1 forming the comparative of adjectives and adverbs. 2 to a greater extent. 3 again. 4 (more than): very. more or less: 1 to a certain extent. 2 approximately. no more: 1 nothing or no further. 2 (be no more): no longer exist.
lose
v. (loses, losing, lost) 1 have something or someone taken away from you; no longer have or keep: she lost her job in a hotel. 2 become unable to find. 3 fail to win a game or contest. 4 earn less money than you are spending. 5 waste time or an opportunity. 6 (be lost): be destroyed or killed. 7 escape from someone in pursuit. 8 (lose yourself in/be lost in): be or become deeply involved in. 9 (of a watch or clock) become slow by a specified amount of time. lose out: not get a full chance or advantage.
through
prep. and adv. 1 moving in one side and out of the other side of an opening or place. 2 [prep.] expressing the location of something beyond an opening or an obstacle: the approach to the church is through a gate. 3 continuing in time towards: she struggled through until pay day. 4 from beginning to end: we sat through some boring speeches. 5 by means of. 6 [adv.] so as to be connected by telephone. adj. 1 (of public transport or a ticket) continuing or valid to the final destination. 2 (of traffic, road, etc.) passing straight through a place. 3 having successfully passed to the next stage of a competition. 4 informal: having finished an activity, relationship, etc.
star
n. 1 a huge mass of burning gas which is visible as a glowing point in the night sky. 2 a shape with five or six points representing a star, often used to indicate a category of excellence. 3 a famous or talented entertainer or sports player. 4 an outstanding person or thing. v. 1 (of a film, play, etc.) have someone as a leading performer. 2 (of a performer) have a leading role in a film, play, etc.
marriage
n. 1 the formal union of a man and a woman, by which they are or become husband and wife. 2 a combination of two or more elements.
here
adv. 1 in, at, or to this place, position, or point. 2 (usu. here is/are) used when introducing or handing over something or someone. here and there: in various places. neither here nor there: of no importance.
position
n. 1 a place where someone or something is or should be. 2 a way in which someone or something is placed or arranged: he raised himself to a sitting position. 3 a situation. 4 a job. 5 a person’s place or importance in relation to other people: she finished in second position. 6 a point of view: the party’s position on abortion. v. put or arrange in a particular position.
specific
adj. 1 clearly defined or identified. 2 precise and clear: when ordering goods be specific. 3 (specific to): belonging or relating only to. n. (specifics): precise details.
group
n. 1 a number of people or things gathered or classed together. 2 a number of musicians who play popular music together. 3 Chem.: a set of elements occupying a column in the periodic table. v. place in or form a group or groups.
sound 3
v. 1 find out the depth of water in the sea, a lake, or a river using a line, pole, or sound echoes. 2 (sound someone out): question someone to find out their opinions.
legal
adj. 1 relating to or required by the law. 2 permitted by law.
represent
v. 1 be entitled or appointed to act and speak on behalf of. 2 be a specimen or example of. 3 (be represented): be present to a particular degree: abstraction is well represented in this exhibition. 4 show or describe something in a particular way. 5 depict something in a work of art. 6 be a symbol of.
administration
n. 1 the organization and running of a business or system. 2 the action of giving out or applying something. 3 the government in power.
town
n. 1 a settlement larger than a village and generally smaller than a city. 2 the central part of a town or city, with its business or shopping area. 3 densely populated areas, as contrasted with the country or suburbs. go to town: informal: do something thoroughly or enthusiastically. on the town: informal: enjoying the nightlife of a city or town.
economy
n. 1 the state of a country or region in terms of the production and consumption of goods and services and the supply of money. 2 careful management of resources. 3 a financial saving. 4 (also: economy class) the cheapest class of air or rail travel. adj. offering good value for money: an economy pack.
oh
exclam. expressing surprise, disappointment, joy, acknowledgement, etc.
local
adj. 1 relating to a particular area or to the area in which you live: the local post office. 2 affecting a particular part of the body: a local anaesthetic. 3 Computing: (of a device) that can be accessed without the use of a network. n. 1 a person who lives in a particular area. 2 Brit. informal: a pub near to a person’s home.
tell
v. 1 communicate information to someone. 2 instruct someone to do something. 3 express in words: he tried to make them laugh by telling jokes. 4 (tell on): informal: inform on. 5 (tell someone off): informal: reprimand someone. 6 establish or determine that something is the case: you can tell they’re in love. 7 be able to recognise a difference. 8 (of an experience) have a noticeable effect on someone. tell tales: gossip about another person’s secrets or wrongdoings. tell the time: be able to find out the time from reading the face of a clock or watch.
language
n. 1 the means of human communication, consisting of the use of spoken or written words in a structured way. 2 the system of communication used by a particular community or country. 3 a particular style of speaking or writing: legal language. 4 a system of symbols and rules for writing computer programs.
campaign
n. 1 a series of military operations intended to achieve a particular aim. 2 an organized course of action to achieve a goal. v. work in an organized way towards a goal.
item
n. an individual article or unit.
trial
n. 1 a formal examination of evidence in a court of law to decide if a person is guilty of a crime. 2 a test of performance, qualities, or suitability. 3 (trials): an event in which horses or dogs compete or perform. 4 a test of a person’s endurance or patience, v, test something to assess its suitability or performance. on trial: 1 being tried in a court of law. 2 undergoing tests. trial and error: the process of experimenting with various methods until you find the most successful.
stop
v. 1 come or bring to an end. 2 prevent from happening or from doing something. 3 no longer move or operate. 4 (of a bus or train) call at a place to pick up or set down passengers. 5 Brit. informal: stay somewhere for a short time. 6 block or close up a hole or leak. 7 refuse to supply as usual; withhold. 8 instruct a bank to withhold payment on a cheque. n. 1 an act of stopping. 2 a place where a bus or train regularly stops. 3 an object or part of a mechanism which prevents movement. 4 a set of organ pipes of a particular tone and range of pitch. pull out all the stops: make a very great effort to achieve something. [with reference to the stops of an organ.]
Democrat
n. (in the US) a member of the Democratic Party.
sport
n. 1 an activity involving physical effort and skill in which a person or team competes against another or others. 2 informal: a person who behaves in a good or specified way when teased or defeated: be a sport! 3 pleasure gained from an activity such as hunting. v. 1 wear a distinctive item. 2 literary: play in a lively way.
light 1
n. 1 the natural form of energy that makes things visible. 2 a source of illumination such as a lamp. 3 a window or section of a window. 4 a device producing a flame or spark. 5 an expression in someone’s eyes. 6 understanding: she saw light dawn on the woman’s face. v. 1 provide an area or object with light. 2 ignite or be ignited. adj. 1 having a considerable amount of light. 2 (of a colour) pale. come to light: become widely known. in (the) light of: taking something into consideration. light up: become lively or happy: his face lit up with delight. light something up: ignite a cigarette, pipe, or cigar before smoking it. see the light: understand or realize something.
special
adj. 1 better, greater, or otherwise different from what is usual: they make a special effort at Christmas. 2 designed for a particular purpose or occasion. 3 intended for or belonging to a particular person or thing. n. 1 something designed or organised for a particular occasion or purpose. 2 a dish not on the regular menu but served on a particular day.
lie 2
n. 1 a deliberately false statement. 2 a situation involving deception. v. 1 tell a lie or lies. 2 (of a thing) present a false impression.
purpose
n. 1 the reason for which something is done or for which something exists. 2 strong determination. v. formal: have something as your aim. on purpose: deliberately.
large
adj. 1 relatively great in size, extent, or capacity. 2 of wide range or scope. (large it): v. Brit. informal: go out and have a good time. at large: 1 escaped or not yet captured. 2 as a whole.
red
adj. 1 of the colour of blood or fire. 2 (of hair or fur) reddish-brown. 3 informal, esp. derog. communist or socialist. n. 1 red colour or material. 2 informal, esp. derog. a communist or socialist. in the red: having spent more than is in your bank account. see red: informal: suddenly become very angry.
avoid
v. 1 keep away from, or stop yourself from doing something. 2 prevent something from happening.
car
n. 1 a powered road vehicle designed to carry a small number of people. 2 a railway carriage or (N. Amer.) wagon.
concern
v. 1 relate to; be about. 2 affect or involve: stop interfering in matters that don’t concern you. 3 make anxious or worried. n. 1 worry; anxiety. 2 a matter of interest or importance. 3 a business.
brother
n. 1 a man or boy in relation to other children of his parents. 2 a male colleague or friend. 3 a (male) fellow Christian. 4 a member of a religious order of men: a Benedictine brother.
feeling
n. 1 an emotion state or reaction: a feeling of joy. 2 (feelings): the emotional side of a person’s character. 3 strong emotion. 4 the capacity to feel. 5 the sensation of touching or being touched: the feeling of water against your skin. 6 a belief or opinion. 7 (feeling for): an understanding of.
watch
v. 1 look at with attention or interest. 2 (often: watch over) keep under careful observation. 3 treat with caution or control: watch what you say! 4 (watch for): look out for. 5 (watch out): be careful. n. 1 a small timepiece usually worn on a strap on the wrist. 2 an instance of watching. 3 a period of keeping watch during the night 4 a fixed period of duty on a ship, usually lasting four hours. 5 a shift worked by firefighters or police officers. keep watch: keep alert for danger or trouble. watch your back: protect yourself against unexpected danger.
three
cardinal number: one more than two; 3. (Roman numeral: iii or III.)
price
n. 1 the amount of money for which something is bought or sold. 2 something unwelcome that must be done or given in order to achieve something: the price of their success was a day spent in discussion. 3 the odds in betting. v. decide the price of something. at any price: no matter what is involved. at a price: at a high cost.
really
adv. 1 in actual fact. 2 very; thoroughly. exclam. expressing interest, surprise, doubt, or protest.
system
n. 1 a set of things working together as a mechanism or network. 2 a person’s body. 3 Computing: a group of related hardware units or programs or both. 4 an organised scheme or method. 5 the state of being well organised. 6 (the system): the laws and rules that control society.
pain
n. 1 a strongly unpleasant sensation caused by illness or injury. 2 mental suffering. 3 (also: pain in the neck) informal: an annoying or boring person or thing. 4 (pains): great care or trouble. v. 1 cause pain to. 2 (as adj.: pained): showing that you are annoyed or upset. on (or: under) pain of: with the threat of the punishment of.
third
ordinal number: 1 that is number three in a sequence; 3rd. 2 (a third/one third): each of three equal parts into which something is divided. 3 a musical interval spanning three consecutive notes in a scale. 4 Brit. : a place in the third grade in the exams for a university degree.
collection
n. 1 the action of collecting. 2 a group of things that have been collected. 3 a regular removal of mail or rubbish.
under
prep. 1 extending or directly below. 2 at a lower level, layer, or grade than. 3 expressing control by another person: I was under his spell. 4 according to the rules of. 5 used to express grouping or classification. 6 undergoing a process: the hotel is still under construction. adv. extending or directly below something. under way: 1 having started and making progress. 2 (of a boat) not anchored or moored.
statement
n. 1 a clear expression of something in speech or writing. 2 a formal account of facts or events given to the police or in court. 3 a document setting out what has been paid into and out of a bank account.
probably
adv. almost certainly.
day
n. 1 a period of twenty-four hours, reckoned from midnight to midnight. 2 the time between sunrise and sunset. 3 a particular period of the past: laws were strict in those days. 4 (the day): the present time or the time in question. 5 (your day): the youthful or successful period of your life. call it a day: decide to stop doing something. day by day: gradually. day in, day out: continuously or repeatedly over a long period. day-to-day: 1 happening every day. 2 routine. that will be the day: informal: that is very unlikely. these days: at present.
cut
v. 1 make an opening or wound in something with a sharp implement. 2 make, shorten, divide, or remove with a sharp implement: she cut his photo out of the paper. 3 (usu. as: adj.: cut) make or design a garment in a particular way: an impeccably cut suit. 4 reduce the amount or quantity of: I should cut down my salt intake. 5 end or interrupt the supply of something. 6 go across or through: is it illegal to cut across a mini-roundabout? 7 move to another shot in a film. 8 divide a pack of playing cards by lifting a portion from the top. n. 1 an act of cutting. 2 a result of cutting: a cut on his jaw. 3 a reduction. 4 the style in which a garment or the hair is cut. 5 a piece of meat cut from a carcass. 6 informal: a share of profits. 7 a version of a film after editing. be cut out for (or: to be): informal: have exaxtly the right qualities for a role. a cute above: informal: better than. cut and dried: decided or planned in advance. cut and run: informal: make a rapid departure from a difficult situation. cut and thrust a difficult or competitive situation. cut both ways: 1 (of a point) serve both sides of an argument. 2 have both good and bad effects. cut corners: do something with a lack of thoroughness in order to save time or money. cut a dash: Brit.: be stylish or impressive. cut someone dead: completely ignore someone. cut in: 1 interrupt someone. 2 pull in too closely in front of another vehicle. 3 (of a machine) begin operating automatically. cut it out: informal: stop it. cut the mustard: informal: reach the required standard. cut no ice: informal: have no influence or effect. cut someone/thing off: 1 block the usual means of access to a place. 2 deprive someone of a supply of power, water, etc. 3 break a telephone connection with somone. cut out: (of an engine) suddenly stop operating. cut someone out: exclude someone. cut your teeth: get initial experience of an activity. cut a tooth: (of a baby) have a tooth appear through the gum. cut up: informal: very upset. cut up rough: Brit. informal: behave in an aggressive or awkward way.
affect 1
v. 1 make a difference to: the damp has affected my health. 2 move someone emotionally.
sister
n. 1 a woman or girl in relation to other children of her parents. 2 a female friend or colleague. 3 a member of a religious order of women. 4 Brit.: a senior female nurse. adj. belonging to the same group or type as something else: a sister organization.
possible
adj. 1 capable of existing, happening, or being done. 2 that may be so, but that is not certain: the possible cause of the plane crash.
thought 1
n. 1 an idea or opinion produced by thinking, or that occurs suddenly in the mind. 2 the process of thinking. 3 (your thoughts): your mind. 4 careful consideration: I haven’t given it much thought. 5 (thought of): an intention, hope, or idea of: they had no thought of surrender. 6 the forming of opinions or the opinions so formed: traditions of Western thought.
drug
n. 1 a substance used to treat or prevent disease or infection. 2 an illegal substance taken for the effects it has on the body. v. give someone a drug in order to make them unconscious.
trade
n. 1 the buying and selling of goods and services. 2 a particular area of commercial activity: the tourist trade. 4 (the trade): the people engaged in a particular area of business. v. 1 buy and sell goods and services. 2 buy or sell a particular item. 3 exchange something for something else. 4 (trade something in): exchange a used article as part of a payment for another. 5 (trade on): take advantage of. 6 (trade something off): exchange something of value as part of a compromise.
hang
v. 1 suspend or be suspended from above with the lower part not attached. 2 kill someone by suspending them from a rope tied around the neck. 3 attach something so as to allow free movement about the point of attachment (e.g. a hinge): hanging a door. 4 (of fabric or a garment) fall or drape in a particular way. 5 attach meat or game to a hook and leave it until dry, tender, and ready to cook. get the hang of: informal: learn how to do something. hang around: wait around. hang on: 1 hold tightly. 2 informal: wait for a short time. hang out: informal: spend time relaxing or enjoying yourself. hang up: end a telephone conversation by cutting the connection.
not
adv. 1 used to form or express a negative: she would not leave. 2 less than: not ten feet away.
west
n. 1 the direction in which the sun sets at the equinoxes. 2 the western part of a place. 3 (the West): Europe and North America seen in contrast to other civilisations. 4 (the West): hist.: the non-Communist states of Europe and North America. adj. 1 lying towards or facing the west. 2 (of a wind) blowing from the west. adv. to or towards the west.
religious
adj. 1 relating to or believing in a religion. 2 very careful or regular.
loss
n. 1 the fact or action of losing something or someone. 2 a person, thing, or amount lost. 3 the feeling of sadness after losing a valued person or thing. 4 a person or thing that is badly missed when lost. at a loss: uncertain or puzzled.
base 2
adj. 1 bad or immoral. 2 old use: of low social class.
six
cardinal number: 1 one more than five; 6. (roman numeral: vi or VI.) 2 Cricket: a hit that reaches the boundary without first bouncing, scoring six runs. at sixes and sevens: in a state of confusion. knock someone for six: Brit. informal: surprise someone greatly.
defense
n. 1 the action of defending something against attack. 2 military measures or resources for protecting a country. 3 (defences): fortifications against attack. 4 attempted justification: he spoke in defence of his actions. 5 the case presented by the party being accused or sued in a lawsuit. 6 (the defence): the lawyer acting for the defendant in a lawsuit. 7 (in sport) the players who prevent the other team from scoring.
general
adj. 1 affecting or concerning all or most people or things. 2 involving only the main features or elements of something: not detailed. 3 chief: the general manager. n. a commander of an army, or an army officer ranking above lieutenant general. in general: 1 usually; mainly. 2 as a whole.
wrong
adj. 1 not correct or true; mistaken or in error. 2 unjust, dishonest, or immoral. 3 in a bad or abnormal condition: something is wrong with the pump. adv. 1 in a mistaken or undesirable way or direction. 2 with an incorrect result. n. an unjust, dishonest, or immoral action. v. 1 act unjustly towards someone. 2 mistakenly think that someone has bad motives. get hold of the wrong end of the stick: misunderstand something. in the wrong: responsible for a mistake or offence. on the wrong side of: 1 out of favour with 2 somewhat more than a specified age.
owner
n. a person who owns something.
expert
n. a person who has great knowledge or skill in a particular area. adj. having or involving great knowledge or skill: an expert witness.
shoot
v. 1 kill or wound a person or animal with a bullet or arrow. 2 fire a gun or other weapon. 3 move suddenly and rapidly. 4 direct a glance, question, or remark at someone. 5 (in sports) kick, hit, or throw the ball in an attempt to score a goal. 6 film or photograph a scene, film, etc. 7 (as adj.: shooting): (of a pain) sudden and piercing. 8 (of a boat) sweep swiftly down rapids. 9 move a bolt to fasten or unfasten a door. 10 send out buds or shoots. n. 1 a new part growing from a tree or other plant. 2 an occasion of taking photographs professionally or making a film or video: a fashion shoot. 3 an occasion when a group of people hunt and shoot animals or birds for sport. shoot your mouth off: informal: talk boastfully or too freely. the whole shooting match: informal: everything. shoot up: informal: inject yourself with a narcotic drug.
interest
n. 1 the state of wanting to know about something or someone. 2 the quality of arousing someone’s curiosity or holding their attention. 3 a subject about which you are concerned or enthusiastic. 4 money paid for the use of money that is being lent. 5 a person’s advantage or benefit: it is in his own interest. 6 a share, right, or stake in property or a business. v. 1 arouse someone’s curiosity or attention. 2 (interest someone in): persuade someone to do or obtain. 3 (as adj.: interested): not impartial: interested parties.
season
n. 1 each of the four divisions of the year (spring, summer, autumn, and winter) marked by particular weather and daylight hours. 2 a period of the year with particular weather, or when a particular activity is done: the cricket season. v. 1 add salt, herbs, or spices to food. 2 make something more interesting. 3 keep wood so as to dry it for use as timber. 4 (as adj.: seasoned): experienced: a seasoned traveller. in season: 1 (of a fruit or vegetable) plentiful and ready to eat. 2 (of a female mammal) ready to mate.
reason
n. 1 a cause or explanation. 2 good cause to do something: we have reason to celebrate. 3 the power to think, understand, and draw conclusions logically. 4 (your reason): your sanity. 5 what is right or possible: I’ll answer anything, within reason. v. 1 think, understand, and draw conclusions logically. 2 (reason with): persuade someone by logical argument. it stands to reason: it is obvious or logical.
next
adj. 1 coming immediately after the present one in time, space, or order. 2 (of a day of the week) nearest (or the nearest but one) after the present. adv. 1 immediately afterwards. 2 following in the specified order: Joe was the next oldest after Martin. n. the next person or thing. next of kin: a person’s closest living relative or relatives. next to: 1 beside. 2 following in order or importance. 3 almost. the next world: (in some religious beliefs) the place where you go after death.
director
n. 1 a person who is in charge of a department, organization, or activity. 2 a member of the managing board of a business. 3 a person who directs a film, play, etc.
coach 2
n. 1 an instructor or trainer in sport. 2 a tutor who gives private or specialized teaching. v. train or teach as a coach.
meeting
n. 1 an organized gathering of people for a discussion or other purpose. 2 a situation in which people meet by chance or arrangement.
response
n. an answer or reaction.
in
prep. 1 so as to be enclosed, surrounded, or inside. 2 expressing a period of time during which an event takes place. 3 expressing the length of time before an event is to take place. 4 expressing a state or quality: he’s in love. 5 so as to be included or involved. 6 indicating the means of expression used: put it in writing. 7 expressing a value as a proportion of a whole. adv. 1 expressing the state of being enclosed, surrounded, or inside: we were locked in. 2 present at your home or office. 3 expressing arrival. 4 (of the tide) rising at its highest level. adj. informal: fashionable. in that: for the reason that. the ins and outs: informal: all the details.
step
n. 1 an act of lifting and putting down the foot or feet in walking. 2 the distance covered by a step. 3 a flat surface on which to place the foot when moving from one level to another. 4 a position or grade in a scale or ranking. 5 a measure or action taken to achieve something: a major step forward. 6 (steps or: a pair of steps): Brit.: a stepladder. v. lift and put down the foot or feet. in (or: out of) step: 1 walking, marching, or dancing in the same (or a different) rhythm and pace as other people. 2 in accordance (or not in accordance) with what other people are doing or thinking. step down: withdraw or resign from a job. step in: become involved in a difficult situation. step out of line: behave inappropriately or disobediently. step something up: increase the amount, speed, or strength of something.
war
n. 1 a state of armed conflict between different nations, states, or groups. 2 a prolonged contest between rivals or campaign against something undesirable: a war on drugs. v. engage in a war. be on the warpath: be very angry with someone.
consumer
n. a person who buys a product or service for personal use.
sound 1
n. 1 vibrations which travel through air or water and are sensed by the ear. 2 a thing that can be heard. 3 music, speech, and sound effects accompanying a film or broadcast. 4 an impression given by words: you’ve had a hard day, by the sound of it. v. 1 make a sound. 2 make a sound to show or warn of something. 3 give a specified impression: the job sounds great. 4 (sound off): express your opinions forcefully.
to
prep. 1 in the direction of. 2 situated in the direction mentioned from: there are mountains to the north. 3 so as to reach a particular state. 4 identifying the person or thing affected by an action: you were unkind to her. 5 indicating that people or things are related, like, or attached. 6 esp. Brit.: (in telling the time) before the hour specified. 7 indicating a rate of return: ten miles to the gallon. 8 introducing the second part of a comparison: the club’s noting to what it once was. infinitive marker: used with the base form of a verb to indicate that the era is in the infinitive. adv. so as to be closed or nearly closed. to and fro: in a constant movement backwards and forwards or from side to side.
area
n. 1 a part of a place, object, or surface. 2 the extent or measurement of a surface. 3 a subject or range of activity. 4 a sunken enclosure that leads to a basement.
fine 2
n. a sum of money imposed as a punishment by a court of law or other authority. v. punish someone by ordering them to pay a sum of money.
tax
n. money that must be paid to the state, charged as a proportion of personal income and business profits or added to the cost of some goods and services. v. 1 impose a tax on. 2 pay tax on a vehicle. 3 make heavy demands on: the ordeal would severely tax her strength. 4 accuse someone of doing something wrong.
miss 2
n. 1 (Miss): a title coming before the name of an unmarried woman or girl. 2 (miss): used as a form of address to a female teacher. 3 a girl or young woman, especially one regarded as headstrong.
enjoy
v. 1 take pleasure in. 2 (enjoy yourself): have a pleasant time. 3 possess and benefit from: these professions enjoy high status.
force
n. 1 physical strength or energy accompanying action or movement. 2 pressure to do something backed by the use or threat of violence. 3 influence or power. 4 a person or thing having influence: a force for peace. 5 an organized group of soldiers, police, or workers 6 (the forces): Brit.: the army, navy, and air force. 7 Physics: a measurable influence that causes something to move. v. 1 make a way through or into by force. 2 push into position using force. 3 achieve by effort: force a smile. 4 make someone do something against their will. 5 (force something on): impose something on. 6 make a plant develop or mature more quickly than normal. force someone’s hand: make someone do something. in force: 1 in great strength or numbers. 2 (in/into force): in or into effect.
prepare
v. 1 make something ready for use. 2 make or get ready to do or deal with something: she took time off to prepare for her exams. 3 (be prepared to do): be willing to do.
believe
v. 1 accept that something is true or someone is telling the truth. 2 (believe in) have faith in the truth or existence of. 3 think or suppose. 4 have religious faith.
society
n. 1 people living together in an ordered community. 2 a community of people living in a country or region, and having shared customs, laws, and organisations. 3 (also: high society) people who are fashionable, wealthy, and influential. 4 an organization formed for a particular purpose. 5 the situation of being in the company of other people: she shunned the society of others.
arrive
v. 1 reach a destination. 2 (of a particular moment or event) happen. 3 (arrive at) reach a conclusion or decision. 4 informal: become successful and well known.
listen
v. 1 give your attention to a sound. 2 make an effort to hear something. 3 (listen in): listen to a private conversation. 4 respond to advice or a request. n. an act of attending to a sound or hearing something.
world
n. 1 (the world): the earth with all its countries and peoples. 2 a region or group of countries: the English-speaking world. 3 all that belongs to a particular period or area of activity: the theatre world. 4 (your world): your life and activities. 5 (the world): secular or material matters as opposed to spiritual or religious ones. 6 a planet. 7 (a/the world) a very large amount of: that makes a world of difference. the best of both (or: all possible) worlds: the benefits of widely differing situations, enjoyed at the same time. out of this world: informal: very enjoyable or impressive.
fast 2
v. go without food or drink, especially for religious reasons. n. a period of fasting.
if
conj. 1 on the condition or in the event that: if you have a complaint, write to the manager. 2 despite the possibility that. 3 whether. 4 whenever. 5 expressing surprise, regret, or an opinion: if you ask me, he’s in love.
leave 2
n. 1 (also: leave of absence) time when you have permission to be absent from work or duty. 2 formal: permission: seeking leave to appeal. take your leave: formal: say goodbye.
live 1
1 remain alive. 2 be alive at a particular time. 3 spend your life in a particular way: they are living in fear. 4 make your home in a place or with a person. 5 (live in/out): reside at (or away from) the place where you work or study. 6 supply yourself with the means of staying alive: they live by hunting and fishing. live something down: succeed in making other people forget something embarrassing. live it up: informal: lead a life of extravagance and exciting social activity. live rough: live outdoors as a result of being homeless.
tree
n. a woody perennial plant consisting of a trunk and branches, that can grow to a considerable height.
ago
adv. before the present (used with a measurement of time).
kind 1
n. 1 a class or type of similar people or things. 2 character; nature: the US is different in kind to other countries. 3 each of the elements (bread and wine) of the Eucharist. in kind: 1 in the same way. 2 (of payment) in goods or services instead of money. kind of: informal: rather. one of a kind: unique. two of a kind: the same or very similar.
like 1
prep. 1 similar to. 2 in a similar way to. 3 in a way appropriate to. 4 such as. conj. informal: 1 in the same way that. 2 as if. n. (the like): things of the same kind. adj. having similar characteristics to someone or something else. (as) like as not: probably. like so: informal: in this way.
patient
adj. able to accept delay, trouble, or suffering without becoming angry or upset. n. a person receiving or registered to receive medical treatment.
benefit
n. 1 advantage or profit. 2 a payment made by the state or an insurance scheme to someone entitled to receive it. 3 a public performance to raise money for a charity. v. 1 receive an advantage; profit. 2 bring advantage to. the benefit of the doubt: an acceptance that a person is correct or innocent if the opposite cannot be proved.
figure
n. 1 a number or numerical symbol. 2 a person’s bodily shape, especially that of a woman. 3 an important or distinctive person: senior figures in politics. 4 a geometric or decorative shape defined by one or more lines. 5 a diagram or illustrative drawing. 6 a short succession of musical notes from which longer passages are developed. v. 1 play an important part: nuclear policy figured prominently in the talks. 2 calculate arithmetically. 3 (figure someone/thing out): informal: understand someone or something. 4 N. Amer.: informal: think, consider.
media
n. 1 television, radio, and newspapers as the means of mass communication. 2 pl. of: medium.
present 2
v. 1 give something or introduce someone formally at a ceremony. 2 offer something for consideration or payment. 3 formally introduce someone to someone else. 4 put a show or exhibition before the public. 5 introduce and appear in a television or radio show. 6 be the cause of a problem. 7 give a particular impression to other people: the EC presented a united front over the crisis. 8 (present yourself): appear at or attend a formal occasion. n. a thing given to someone as a gift.
national
adj. 1 relating to a nation. 2 owned, controlled, or financially supported by the state. n. a citizen of a particular country.
case 1
n. 1 an instance of something occurring: a case of mistaken identity. 2 an incident being investigated by the police. 3 a legal action that is to be or has been decided in a court of law. 4 a set of facts or arguments supporting one side of a debate or lawsuit. 5 a person or problem requiring or receiving the attention of a doctor, social worker, etc. 6 Grammar: a form of a noun, adjective, or pronoun expressing the relationship of the word to others in the sentence: the possessive case. be the case: be so. in case: so as to allow for the possibility of something happening.
senior
adj. 1 relating to older people. 2 Brit.: relating to schoolchildren above the age of about eleven. 3 US: of the final year at a university or high school. 4 [after a name] referring to the elder of two with the same name in a family: Henry James senior. 5 high or higher in rank or status. n. 1 a person who is a specified number of years older than someone else: she was two years his senior. 2 (in sport) a competitor of above a certain age or of the highest status. 3 a student at a senior school.
minute 1
n. 1 a period of time equal to sixty seconds or a sixtieth of an hour. 2 (a minute): informal: a very short time. 3 (also: arc minute or: minute of arc) a measurement of an angle equal to one sixtieth of a degree. up to the minute: up to date.
actually
adv. in reality.
ball 1
n. 1 a rounded object that is kicked, thrown, or hit in a game. 2 a single throw or kick of the ball in a game. 3 a rounded part or thing: the ball of the foot. v. squeeze or form into a ball. on the ball: alert. play ball: informal: cooperate. start (or set) the ball rolling: make a start.
door
n. 1 movable barrier at the entrance to a building, room, or vehicle, or as part of a cupboard. 2 the distance from one building in a row to another. he lived two doors away. out of doors: in or into the open air.
note
n. 1 a brief written record of something, used as an aid to memory. 2 a short written message. 3 Brit.: a banknote. 4 a single sound of a particular pitch and length made by a musical instrument or voice, or a symbol representing this. 5 a particular quality: there was a note of scorn in his voice. v. 1 pay attention to. 2 record in writing. of note: important. take note: pay attention.
baby
n. 1 a child or animal that is newly or recently born. 2 a timid or childish person. 3 informal: a person’s lover. adj. small or very young: baby carrots. v. treat someone too protectively. be left holding the baby: informal: be given a responsibility that you do not want.
together
adv. 1 with or near to another person or people. 2 so as to touch, combine, or be united. 3 regarded as a whole. 4 (of two people) married or in a sexual relationship. 5 at the same time. 6 without interruption. adj. informal: sensible, calm, or well organised. together with: as well as.
man
n. (pl.: men) 1 an adult human male. 2 a husband or lover. 3 a person. 4 human beings in general: places untouched by man. 5 a piece used in a board game. v. (of personnel) work at, run, or operate (a place or piece of equipment) or defend (a fortification). the man in the street: the average person. to a man: with no exceptions.
beyond
prep. and adv. 1 at or to the further side of. 2 outside the range or limits of. 3 to or in a state where something is impossible: the radio was beyond repair. 4 happening or continuing after. 5 except.
early
adj. and adv. 1 before the usual or expected time. 2 near the beginning of a particular period or sequence. at the earliest: not before the time or date specified. early (or: earlier) on: at an early (or earlier) stage.
action
n. 1 the process of doing something to achieve an aim. 2 a thing done. 3 the effect of something such as a chemical. 4 a lawsuit. 5 armed conflict. 6 the way in which something works or moves. v. deal with something. in action: performing an activity. out of action: not working.
wall
n. 1 a continuous upright structure forming a side of a building or room, or enclosing or dividing an area of land. 2 a barrier: a wall of silence. 3 Football: a line of defenders forming a barrier against a free kick taken near the penalty area. 4 the outer layer or lining of a body organ or cavity. v. enclose or block by building a wall. drive someone (or: go) up the wall: informal: make someone (or become) very irritated. go to the wall: informal: (of a business) fail. wall-to-wall 1 (of a carpet) fitted to cover an entire floor. 2 informal: very numerous or plentiful.
leader
n. 1 a person or thing that leads. 2 a person or thing that is the most successful or advanced in a particular area. 3 the main player in a music group. 4 Brit.: a leading article in a newspaper.
discussion
n. 1 the action of discussing something. 2 a detailed written treatment of a topic.
smile
v. 1 form the features into a pleased, friendly, or amused expression, with the corners of the mouth turned up. 2 (smile at/on): favour: fortune smiled on him. n. an act of smiling.
school 1
n. 1 an institution for educating children. 2 a day’s work at school. 3 any institution at which instruction is given in a particular subject. 4 a department of a university. 5 a group of artists, writers, or philosophers sharing similar ideas. v. 1 formal or N. Amer.: send someone to school; educate. 2 train someone to do something: his instincts had schooled him to avoid them. school of though: a particular way of thinking.
necessary
adj. 1 needing to be done or present; essential: major changes are necessary. 2 that must be; unavoidable: a necessary result. n. (necessaries): the basic requirements of life, such as food.
age
n. 1 the length of time that a person or thing has existed. 2 a particular stage in someone’s life: children of primary school age. 3 old age. 4 a distinct period of history: the Elizabethan age. v. 1 grow older. 2 make someone or something appear older. come of age: be legally recognized as an adult (in UK law at 18).
remember
v. 1 have in or bring to your mind someone or something from the past. 2 keep something necessary in mind: remember to post the letters. 3 bear someone in mind by making them a gift or by mentioning them in prayer. 4 (remember someone to): pass on greetings from one person to another.
ready
adj. 1 prepared for an activity or situation. 2 made suitable and available for immediate use: dinner’s ready. 3 easily available or obtained. 4 (ready to do): willing or eager to do. 5 quick: a ready wit. n. (readies or: the ready): Brit. informal: available money; cash. v. prepare someone or something for an activity or purpose. at the ready: available for immediate use. make ready: prepare.
box 3
n. an evergreen shrub with small glossy leaves.
trouble
n. 1 difficulty or problems. 2 effort made to do something. 3 a cause of worry or inconvenience. 4 a situation in which a person is likely to be punished or blamed: he’s been in trouble with the police. 5 public disorder or unrest. v. 1 cause distress or inconvenience to. 2 (as adj.: troubled): experiencing problems or anxiety. 3 (trouble about/over/with): be anxious about. 4 (trouble to do): make the effort to do.
test 1
n. 1 a procedure intended to establish the quality, performance, or reliability of something. 2 a short examination of skill or knowledge. 3 a means of testing something. 4 a difficult situation that reveals the strength or quality of someone or something. 5 an examination of part of the body or a body fluid for medical purposes. 6 Chem.: a procedure for identifying a substance or revealing whether it is present. 7 (Test): a Test match. v. 1 subject to a test. 2 touch or taste before proceeding further. 3 severely try someone’s endurance or patience. test the water: find out feelings or opinions before proceeding further.
rate 2
v. old use: scold angrily.
game 1
n. 1 an activity taken part in for amusement. 2 a orm of competitive activity or sport played according to rules. 3 a complete period of play, ending in a final result. 4 a part of a tennis match, forming a unit of scoring. 5 (games): a meeting for sporting contests. 6 the equipment used in playing a board game, computer game, etc. 7 informal:a type of activity or business regarded as a game. 8 wild mammals or birds hunted for sport or food. adj. eager and willing to do something new or challenging: they were game for anything. v. play at games of chance for money. the game is up: the deception or crime is revealed and so cannot succeed. on the game: Brit. informal: working as a prostitute.
study
n. 1 the reading of books or examination of other materials to gain knowledge. 2 a detailed investigation into a subject or situation. 3 a room for reading, writing, or academic work. 4 a piece of work done for practice or as an experiment. v. 1 make a study of; learn about. 2 apply yourself to study. 3 look at closely in order to observe or read. 4 (as adj.: studied): done with deliberate and careful effort: studied politeness.
identify
v. 1 prove or recognize as being a specified person or thing: he couldn’t identify his attackers. 2 recognize something as being worthy of attention. 3 (identify with): feel that you understand or feel the same as someone else. 4 (identify someone/thing with): associate someone or something closely with.
hand
n. 1 the end part of the arm beyond the wrist. 2 a pointer on a clock or watch indicating the passing of time. 3 (hands): a person’s power or control: taking the law into their own hands. 4 an active role. 5 help in doing something. 6 a person who does physical work. 7 informal: a round of applause. 8 the set of cards dealt to a player in a card game. 9 a unit of measurement of a horse’s height, equal to 4 inches (10.16 cm). v. give or pass something to someone. adj. 1 operated by or held in the hand: hand luggage. 2 done or made by hand. at hand: easy to reach; near. get (or: keep) your hand in: become (or remain) practised in something. hand in glove: in close association. (from) hand to mouth: meeting only your immediate needs; with no money in reserve. hands-on: involving direct participation in something. in hand: 1 in progress. 2 ready for use if needed. on hand: present and available. out of hand: 1 not under control. 2 without taking time to think: the proposal was rejected out of hand. to hand: within easy reach.
analysis
1 a detailed examination of the elements or structure of something. 2 the separation of something into its component parts. 3 psychoanalysis.
can 1
modal v. (3rd sing. present can; past could) 1 be able to. 2 used to express double or surprise: he can’t have finished. 3 used to indicate that something is often the case: he could be very moody. 4 be allowed to.
able
adj. 1 having the power, skill, or means to do something 2 skilful and capable
north
n. 1 the direction in which a compass needle normally points, on the left-hand side of a person facing east. 2 the northern part of a place. adj. 1 lying towards or facing the north. 2 (of a wind) blowing from the north. adv. to or towards the north.
spend
1 pay out money to buy or hire goods or services. 2 use or use up energy or resources. 3 pass time in a specified way. n. informal: an amount of money paid out. spend a penny: Brit. informal, euphem.: urinate.
why
adv. 1 for what reason or purpose? 2 on account of which; the reason that: that’s why they are still friends. exclaim. expressing surprise or annoyance, or used for emphasis. n. a reason or explanation.
table
n. 1 a piece of furniture with a flat top supported by legs, for eating, writing, or working at. 2 a set of facts or figures displayed in rows or columns. 3 (tables): multiplication tables. v. Brit.: formally present something for discussion at a meeting. on the table: available for discussion. turn the tables: reverse a situation to your own advantage.
billion
cardinal number 1 a thousand million; 1,000,000,000 or 10^9. 2 Brit. dated: a million million (1,000,000,000,000 or 10^12). 3 (billions): informal: a very large number or amount.
save 1
1 rescue from harm or danger. 2 store for future use. 3 store data in a computer. 4 avoid the need to use something up: computers save time. 5 guard against: dust jackets save wear and tear on books. 6 prevent an opponent from scoring a goal or point. 7 (in Christian use) prevent a soul from being damned. n. esp. Football: an act of preventing a goal. save the day (or: situation): provide a solution to a problem. save someone’s skin (or: neck or: bacon) rescue someone from difficulty.
other
adj. and pron. (pl.: others) 1 used to refer to a person or thing that is different from one already mentioned or known. 2 additional. 3 the alternative of two. 4 those people or things not already mentioned. the other woman: the mistress of a married man.
cold
adj. 1 relating to or at a low or relatively low temperature. 2 not feeling, showing, or affected by emotion: the cold facts. 3 (of a colour) containing pale blue or grey and giving no impression of warmth. 4 (of a scent or trail) no longer fresh and easy to follow. 5 without preparation; unawares: he went into the test cold. n. 1 cold weather or surroundings. 2 an infection causing a streaming nose and sneezing. get cold feet: lose your nerve. the cold shoulder: deliberate unfriendliness or rejection. in cold blood: without mercy; deliberately cruel.
themselves
pron. [third person pl.] 1 used as the object of a verb or preposition to refer to a group of people or things previously mentioned as the subject of the clause. 2 they or them personally. 3 used instead of ‘himself’ or ‘herself’ to refer to a person of unspecified sex.
try
v. 1 make an attempt to do something. 2 (also: try something out): test something new or different to see if it is suitable, effective, or pleasant. 3 attempt to open a door. 4 (try something on): put on an item of clothing to see if it fits or suits you. 5 make severe demands on: you are trying my patience. 6 put someone on trial. 7 investigate and decide a case in a formal trial. n. 1 an attempt. 2 an act of testing something new or different. 3 Rugby: an act of touching the ball down behind the opposing goal line, scoring points and entitling the scoring side to a kick at goal. tried and tested (or: true): having proved effective or reliable before. try your hand at: attempt to do something for the first time. try it on: Brit. informal: 1 attempt to seduce someone. 2 deliberately test someone’s patience.
suffer
1 experience something bad or unpleasant. 2 (suffer from): be affected by an illness or condition. 3 become or appear worse in quality: his relationship with Anne did suffer. 4 old use: tolerate.
magazine
n. 1 a periodical publication containing articles and pictures. 2 a chamber holding cartridges to be fed automatically to the breech of a gun. 3 a store for arms, ammunition, and explosives.
method
n. 1 a way of doing something. 2 the quality of being well organized in your thinking and actions.
yard 2
n. 1 esp. Brit.: a piece of enclosed ground next to a building. 2 an area of land used for a particular purpose or business: a builder’s yard. 3 N. Amer.: the garden of a house.
our
poss. det. 1 belonging to or connected with the speaker and one or more other people. 2 belonging to or associated with people in general.
treat
v. 1 behave towards or deal with someone or something in a particular way. 2 give medical care or attention to. 3 apply a process or a substance to. 4 present or discuss a subject. 5 (treat someone to): pay for someone’s food, drink, or entertainment. 6 (treat yourself): do or have something very enjoyable. n. 1 a surprise gift, event, etc. that gives great pleasure. 2 (your treat): an act of paying for someone’s food, drink, or entertainment.
Republican
adj. 1 relating to or like a republic. 2 supporting the principles of a republic. 3 (republican): (in the US) supporting the Republican Party. n. 1 a person in favour of republican government. 2 (Republican): (in the US) a member of the Republican Party. 3 (Republican): a supporter of a united Ireland.
exist
v. 1 be real or present: they say the deal never existed. 2 be alive.
argue
v. 1 exchange conflicting views heatedly. 2 give reasons or evidence in support of something.
hotel
n. a place providing accommodation and meals for travellers and tourists.
staff
n. 1 the employees of an organization. 2 a group of army officers assisting a commanding officer. 3 a long stick used as a support or weapon. 4 a rod or sceptre held as a sig of office or authority. 5 Music: a stave. v. provide an organization with staff.
conference
n. a formal meeting for discussion or debate.
particular
adj. 1 relating to an individual member of a group or class. 2 more than is usual: particular care. 3 very careful or concerned about something. n. a detail. in particular: especially.
dog
n. 1 a four-legged meat-eating mammal, kept as a pet or used for work or hunting. 2 any member of the dog family, such as the wolf. 3 the male of an animal of the dog family. v. 1 follow closely and persistently. 2 cause continual trouble for: he was dogged by ankle problems. dog eat dog: (of a situation): very competitive. a dog in the manger: a person who prevents other people from having things that they do not need themselves [from the fable of the dog that lay in a manger to prevent the ox and horse from eating the hay.] go to the dogs: informal: get much worse.
same
adj. 1 (the same): exactly alike. 2 (this/that same): referring to a person or thing just mentioned. pron. (the same): 1 the same thing as previously mentioned. 2 identical people or things. adv. in the same way. all (or: just) the same: in spite of this.
wide
adj. 1 of great or more than average width. 2 extending a specified distance from side to side. 3 open to the full extent. 4 including a great variety of people or things. 5 spread among a large number or over a large area. 6 [in: combination] extending over the whole of: industry-wide. 7 at a distance from a point or target. adv. 1 to the full extent. 2 far from a point or target. 3 (especially in football) at or near the side of the field. wide awake: fully awake. wide of the mark: not accurate.
several
det. and pron. more than two but not many. adj. separate or respective.
Mrs
n. a title used before a married woman’s surname or full name.
than
conj. and prep. 1 used to introduce the second part of a comparison. 2 used to introduce an exception or contrast. 3 used in expressions indicating one thing happening immediately after another.
church
n. 1 a building used for public Christian worship. 2 (Church): a particular Christian organization. 3 the Christian religion as an institution with political or social influence.
school 2
n. a large group of fish or sea mammals.
bill 1
n. 1 a written statement of charges for goods or services. 2 a draft of a proposed law presented to parliament for discussion. 3 a programme of entertainment at a theatre or cinema. 4 an advertising poster. 5 N. Amer. a banknote. v. 1 list a person or event in a programme. 2 (bill as): describe as: the show is billed as international. 3 send a statement of charges to. a clean bill of health: a statement confirming good health or condition. fit the bill: be suitable.
term
n. 1 a word or phrase used to describe a thing or to express an idea. 2 (terms): language used on a particular occasion: a protest in the strongest possible terms. 3 (terms): requirements or conditions laid down or agreed. 4 (terms): relations between people: we’re on good terms. 5 a period for which something lasts or is intended to last. 6 each of the periods in the year during which teaching is given in a school or college or during which a law court holds sessions. 7 (also: full term) the completion of a normal length of pregnancy. 8 Math.: each of the quantities in a ratio, series, or mathematical expression. v. call by a particular term. come to terms with: become able to accept or deal with. terms of reference: Brit.: the scope of an inquiry or discussion.
player
n. 1 a person taking part in a sport or game. 2 a person who is influential in a particular area: a major player in political circles. 3 a person who plays a musical instrument. 4 a device for playing audio or video recordings. 5 an actor.
entire
adj. including everything, everyone, or every part; whole.
cost
v. 1 be able to be bought or done fora specific price. 2 involve the loss of: his heroism cost him his life. 3 estimate the cost of something. n. 1 an amount given or required as payment. 2 the effort or loss necessary to achieve something: the cuts came at the cost of customer service. 3 (costs): legal expenses. to someone’s cost: with loss or disadvantage to someone.
message
n. 1 a spoken, written, or electronic communication. 2 an important point or central theme of a novel, speech, etc. v. send a message to. on (or: off) message: (of a politician) following (or not following) the official party line.
enter
1 come or go into. 2 (often: enter into) begin to be involved in or do. 3 join an institution or profession. 4 register as a participant in a competition, exam, etc. 5 (enter into): undertake to be bound by an agreement. 6 write or key information in a book, computer, etc.
might 2
n. great power or strength.
scene
n. 1 the place where an incident occurs or occurred. 2 a view or landscape as seen by a spectator. 3 an incident: scenes of violence. 4 a sequence of continuous action in a play, film, or opera. 5 a public display of emotion or anger. 6 a specified area of activity or interest: the literary scene. behind the scenes: out of public view.
both
det., predet. and pron. two people or things, regarded together. adv. applying equally to each of two alternatives.
agree
v. 1 have the same opinion about something. 2 (agree to) be willing to do something which has been suggested by another person. 3 (of two or more people) decide on something. 4 (agree with) be consistent with: your body language does not agree with what you are saying. 5 (agree with) be good for.
practise
(US: practice) v. 1 do something repeatedly so as to become skilful. 2 do something regularly as part of your normal behaviour: irrigation has been practised there for many years. 3 be working in a particular profession. 4 (as adj.: practised): expert as a result of much experience. 5 follow the teaching and rules of a particular religion.
enough
det. and pron. as much or as many as is necessary or desirable. adv. 1 to the required degree. 2 to a moderate degree.
once
adv. 1 on one occasion only. 2 on even one occasion: he never once complained. 3 formerly. 4 multiplied by one. conj. as soon as. all at once: suddenly. at once: 1 immediately. 2 at the same time. once upon a time: at some time in the past.
lay 3
n. a short lyric or narrative poem intended to be sung.
style
n. 1 a way of doing something. 2 a distinctive appearance, design, or arrangement. 3 a way of painting, writing, etc. characteristic of a particular period, person, etc. 4 elegance and sophistication. 5 a narrow extension of a plant’s ovary, bearing the stigma. v. 1 design, make or arrange in a particular form. 2 give a particular name, description, or title to.
occur
v. 1 happen. 2 be found or present: radon occurs in rocks such as granite. 3 (occur to): come into someone’s mind.
measure
v. 1 find out the size, amount, or degree of something by comparing it with a standard. 2 be of a specified size. 3 (measure something out): take an exact quantity of something. 4 (measure up): reach the required standard. n. 1 a means of achieving a purpose. 2 a proposal for a law. 3 a standard unit used to express size, amount, or degree. 4 a measuring device marked with standard units of size, amount, or degree. 5 (a measure of): a certain amount of. 6 (a measure of): an indication of the extent or quality of. 7 a unit of metre in poetry for good measure: as an amount or item that is additional to what is strictly required. have the measure of: understand the character or abilities of.
mean 1
v. (means, meaning, meant) 1 intend to say or refer to something. 2 (of a word) have as its explanation in the same language or its equivalent in another language. 3 intend to be or do: it was meant to be a secret. 4 have something as a result or purpose. 5 be of specified importance: animals mean more to him than people. mean business: be serious. mean well: have good intentions, but not always carry them out.
can 2
n. a cylindrical metal container. v. preserve food in a can. a can of worms: a complex matter that is full of possible problems.
very
adv. in a high degree. adj. 1 actual; precise. 2 emphasising an extreme point in time or space: the very beginning. 3 mere: the very thought of drink made him feel sick.
the
det. 1 used to refer to one or more people or things already mentioned or easily understood; the definite article. 2 used to refer to someone or something that is the only one of its kind: the sun. 3 used to refer to something in a general rather than specific way: the computer has changed our way of life.
minute 3
n. 1 (minutes): a written summary of the points discussed at a meeting. 2 an official written message. v. record the points discussed at a meeting.
light 2
adj. 1 not heavy or heavy enough. 2 not strongly or heavily built. 3 relatively low in density, amount, or intensity. 4 carrying or suitable for small loads: light commercial vehicles. 5 gentle or delicate. 6 not serious. 7 (of sleep or a sleeper) easily disturbed. make light of: treat something as unimportant.
less
det. and pron. 1 a smaller amount of something. 2 fewer in number. adv. to a smaller extent; not so much. prep. minus.
major
adj. 1 important or serious. 2 greater or more important; main. 3 Music: (of a scale) having intervals of a semitone between the third and fourth, and seventh and eighth notes. Contrasted with: minor. n. 1 a rank of army officer above captain. 2 Music: a major key, interval, or scale. 3 N. Amer.: a student specializing in a specified subject. v. (major in): N. Amer. and Austral./NZ: specialize in a particular subject at college or university.
just
adj. 1 right and fair. 2 deserved. adv. 1 exactly. 2 exactly or nearly at this or that moment. 3 very recently. 4 by a small amount. 5 only. just so: arranged or done very carefully.
happen
v. 1 take place by chance or as a result of something. 2 (happen on): come across by chance. 3 (happen to): be experienced by. 4 (happen to): become of: I don’t care what happens to the money..
level
n. 1 a horizontal line or surface. 2 a position or stage on a scale of quantity, extent, rank, or quality: a high level of unemployment. 3 a height or distance from the ground or another base. 4 a floor within a multi-storey building. adj. 1 having a flat, horizontal surface. 2 at the same height as someone or something else. 3 having the same position or value. v. 1 make or become level. 2 aim or direct a weapon, criticism, or accusation. 3 (level with): informal: be honest with. on the level: informal: honest; truthful.
chance
n. 1 a possibility of something happening. 2 (chances): the probability of something happening. 3 an opportunity. 4 the way in which things happen without any obvious plan or cause: they met by chance in a bookshop. adj. fortuitous; accidental: a chance meeting. v. 1 happen or do something by chance. 2 informal: do something even though it is risky. on the off chance: just in case. stand a chance: have a likelihood of success. take a chance (or: chances): take a risk.
focus
n. 1 the centre of interest or activity. 2 the state of having or producing a clear and defined image: his face is out of focus. 3 the point at which an object must be situated in order for a lens or mirror to produce a clear image of it. 4 a focal point. 5 the point of origin of an earthquake. 6 Geom.: a fixed point with reference to which an ellipse, parabola, or other curve is drawn. v. 1 adapt to the available level of light and become able to see clearly. 2 (focus on): pay particular attention to. 3 adjust the focus of a telescope, camera, etc. 4 (of rays or waves) meet at a single point.
professional
adj. 1 relating or belonging to a profession. 2 engaged in an activity as a paid job rather than as an amateur. 3 appropriate to a professional person; competent or skilful. n. 1 a person engaged or qualified in a profession. 2 a person who is very skilled in a particular activity.
source
n. 1 a place, person, or thing from which something originates. 2 a place where a river or stream begins. 3 a person, book, or document that provides information or evidence. v. obtain from a particular source.
hundred
cardinal number: 1 ten more than ninety; 100. (roman numeral:c or C.) 2 (hundreds): informal: a large number. a (or: one) hundred per cent: completely.
between
prep. and adv. 1 at, into, or across the space separating two things. 2 in the period separating two points in time. 3 [as prep.] indicating a connection or relationship. 4 [as prep.] shared by; together with. between ourselves (or you and me): in confidence.
capital 1
n. 1 the most important city or town of a country or region. 2 wealth owned by a person or organization or invested, lent, or borrowed. 3 a capital letter. adj. 1 (of an offence) punishable by death. 2 (of a letter of the alphabet) large in size and of the form used to beging sentences and names. 3 informal, dated: excellent. make capital out of: use something to your advantage.
maybe
adv. perhaps.
girl
n. 1 a female child. 2 a young woman. 3 a person’s girlfriend.
fish 2
n. a flat piece fixed across a joint to strengthen or connect it.
still 2
n. a device for distilling alcoholic drinks such as whisky.
trip
v. 1 catch the foot on something and stumble or fall. 2 (trip up): make a mistake. 3 walk, run, or dance with quick light steps. 4 (of words) flow lightly and easily. 5 activate a mechanism. 6 (of part of an electric circuit) disconnect automatically as a safety measure. 7 informal: experience hallucinations as a result of taking a drug such as LSD. n. 1 a journey or excursion. 2 an instance of tripping or falling. 3 informal: a period of hallucinations caused by taking a drug. 4 informal: a self-indulgent attitude or activity: a power trip. 5 a device that trips a mechanism or circuit. trip the light fantastic: humorous: dance. [from ‘Trip it as you go On the light fantastic toe’ (Milton’s L’Allegro).]
find
1 discover by chance or by searching. 2 recognize or discover to be present or to be the case. 3 work out or confirm by research or calculation. 4 (of a law court) officially declare to be the case: he was found guilty of speeding. 5 reach or arrive at a state or point by a natural or normal process: water finds its own level. n. a valuable or interesting discovery. find your feet: become confident in a new situation. find someone out: discover that someone has lied or been dishonest. find something out: discover information.
policy
n. an official body of people employed by a state to prevent and solve crime and keep public order. v. 1 keep law and order in an area. 2 ensure that a particular set of rules is obeyed.
budget
n. 1 an estimate of income and spending for a set period of time. 2 the amount of money needed or available for a purpose. 3 (Budget): a regular estimate of national income and spending put forward by a finance minister. v. allow for in a budget. adj. inexpensive.
reduce
v. 1 make or become less. 2 (reduce something to): change something to a different or simpler form. 3 (reduce someone/thing to): bring someone or something to a particular state: she was reduced to stunned silence. 4 boil a sauce or other liquid so that it becomes thicker. 5 Chem.: cause to combine chemically with hydrogen. 6 Chem.: cause to undergo a reaction in which electrons are gained from another substance or molecule. Opp.: oxidize. reduced circumstances: a state in which you have become poor after being more wealthy.
from
prep. 1 indicating the point at which a journey, process, or action starts. 2 indicating the source of something. 3 indicating the starting point of a range. 4 indicating separation, removal, or prevention. 5 indicating a cause. 6 indicating a difference.
their
poss. det. 1 belonging to or associated with the people or things previously mentioned or easily identified. 2 belonging to or associated with a person whose sex is not specified (used in place of either ‘his’ or ‘his or her’). 3 (Their): used in titles.
like 2
v. 1 find pleasant or satisfactory. 2 wish for; want. n. (likes): the things you like.
lawyer
n. a person who practises law.
month
n. 1 each of the twelve named periods into which a year is divided. 2 a period of time between the same dates in successive calendar months, usually about 28 days.
bar 1
n. 1 a long rigid piece of wood, metal, etc. 2 a counter, room, or place where alcohol or food and drink is served. 3 a small shop or counter serving food and drink or providing a service: a snack bar. 4 something that stops or delays progress. 5 any of the short units into which a piece of music is divided, shown on a sheet of music by vertical lines. 6 (the bar): the place in a court room where an accused person stands during a trial. 7 (the Bar): the profession of barrister, or barristers or (in America) lawyers as a group. 8 Brit: a metal strip added to a medal as an additional honour. v. 1 fasten with a bar or bars. 2 forbid or prevent. prep. esp. Brit.: except for. be called (or go) to the Bar: Brit.: be allowed to practise as a barrister. behind bars: in prison.
choose
v. 1 pick out as being the best of the available alternatives. 2 decide on a course of action.
for
prep. 1 affecting or relating to: tickets for the show. 2 in favour or on behalf of. 3 because of: I could dance for joy. 4 so as to get, have, or do: shall we go for a walk? 5 in place of or in exchange for. 6 in the direction of. 7 over a distance or during a period. 8 so as to happen at. conj.: literary: because.
imagine
v. 1 form a mental picture of. 2 think that something is probable; assume. 3 believe something unreal to exist.
job
n. 1 a paid position of regular employment. 2 a task. 3 informal: a crime. 4 informal: a procedure to improve the appearance of something: a nose job. v. do casual or occasional work. a good job: informal, esp. Brit.: a fortunate fact or circumstance.
board
n. 1 a long, thin, flat piece of wood used in building. 2 a thin, flat, rectangular piece of still material used for various purposes. 3 a group of people who control an organization. 4 the provision of regular meals in return for payment. v. 1 get on or into a ship, aircraft, or other vehicle. 2 receive meals and accommodation in return for payment. 3 (of a pupil) live in school during term time. 4 (board something up/over): cover or seal something with pieces of wood. go by the board: (of a plan or principle) be abandoned or rejected. [from nautical use meaning ‘fall overboard’.] on board: on or in a ship, aircraft, or other vehicle. take something on board: informal: fully consider or accept a new idea. tread the boards: informal: appear on stage as an actor.
read
v. 1 understand the meaning of written or printed words or symbols. 2 speak written or printed words aloud. 3 have a particular wording. 4 discover by reading. 5 interpret in a particular way. 6 (read something into): think that something has a meaning that it may not possess. 7 esp. Brit.: study a subject at a university. 8 (of a measuring instrument) show a measurement or figure. 9 (of a computer) copy or transfer data. n. 1 esp. Brit.: an act of reading. 2 informal: a book that is interesting to read. read between the lines: look for or discover a meaning that is not openly stated. take something as read: accept something without the need for discussion. well read: very knowledgeable as a result of reading widely.
form
n 1 the visible shape or arrangement of something. 2 a particular way in which a thing exists: passages in the form of poems. 3 a type. 4 what is usually done: the Englishman knew the form. 5 a printed document with blank spaces for information to be filled in. 6 the current standard of play of a sports player. 7 details of previous performances by a racehorse or greyhound. 8 a person’s mood and state of health: she was on good form. 9 esp. Brit.: a class or year in a school. v. 1 bring together parts to create something. 2 go to make up: this information should form the basis of a report. 3 establish or develop. 4 make or be made into a certain form. in (or Brit.: on) form: playing or performing well. off (or Brit.: out of) form: not playing or performing well.
structure
n. 1 the arrangement of and relations between the parts of something complex. 2 a building or other object constructed from several parts. 3 the quality of being well organised. v. arrange according to a system or plan.
leg
n. 1 each of the limbs on which a person or animal moves and stands. 2 a long, thin support or prop, especially of a chair or table. 3 a section of a journey, process, or race. 4 (in sport) each of two or more games or stages that make up a round or match. leg before wicket: Cricket: (of a batsman) judged to be out through obstructing the ball with the leg when the ball would otherwise have hit the wicket. leg it: Brit. informal: 1 travel by foot. 2 run away. not have a leg to stand on: not be able to give reasons for your arguments or actions. on your (or: its) last legs: exhausted or worn out.
ball 2
n. a formal party for dancing. have a ball: informal: have a very enjoyable time.
lot
pron. and adv. (a lot or: lots) informal: a large number or amount. n. 1 an item or set of items for sale at an auction. 2 informal: a group of people or things: you lot think you’re clever. 3 a method of deciding something by chance, especially by choosing one from a number of pieces of paper. 4 a person’s situation in life: schemes to improve the lot of the poor. 5 esp. N. Amer.: a plot of land. draw (or: cast) lots: decide by choosing one from a number of pieces of paper, or by a similar method of chance. the lot: esp. Brit.: the whole number or quantity. throw in your lot with: decide to join a person or group and share their fate.
turn
v. 1 move around a central point. 2 move so as to face or go in a different direction. 3 make or become: Emma turned pale. 4 shape something on a lathe. 5 (of the tide) change from coming in to going out or vice versa. 6 twist or sprain an ankle. n. 1 an act of turning. 2 a bend in a road, river, etc. 3 a place where a road meets or branches off another. 4 the time when a member of a group must or is allowed to do something: it was his turn to speak. 5 a time when one period of time ends and another begins: the turn of the century. 6 a change in circumstances: the latest turn of events. 7 a short walk or ride. 8 a brief feeling of illness: a funny turn. 9 a short performance: a comic turn. 10 one round in a coil of rope or other material. at every turn: on every occasion. be turned out: be dressed in a particular way. do someone a good turn: do something that is helpful for someone. in turn: one after the other. out of turn: at a time when it is inappropriate or not your turn. take turns (or Brit.: take it in turns): (of two or more people) do something alternately or one after the other. to a turn: to exactly the right degree. turn someone away: refuse to allow someone to enter a place. turn someone/thing down: 1 reject something offered or proposed by someone. 2 reduce the volume or strength of sound, heat, etc. produced by a device by adjusting its controls. turn in: informal: go to bed in the evening. turn someone/thing in: hand someone or something over to the authorities. turn someone off: informal: make someone feel bored or disgusted. turn something off/on: stop or start the operation of something by means of a tap, switch, or button. turn of mind: a particular way of thinking. turn on: suddenly attack. turn someone on: informal: excite someone sexually. turn something out: 1 switch off an electric light. 2 produce something. 3 empty your pockets. turn out: 1 prove to be the case. 2 be present at an event. turn over: (of an engine) start or continue to run properly. turn someone over: hand someone over to the care or custody of a person in authority. turn tail: informal: turn round and run away. turn to: 1 start doing or becoming involved with. 2 go to for help or information. turn up: 1 be found, especially by chance. 2 put in an appearance. turn something up: 1 increase the volume or strength of sound, heat, etc. produced by a device by adjusting its controls. 2 reveal or discover something.
determine
v. 1 cause to happen in a particular way or to have a particular nature: it is biological age that determines our looks. 2 firmly decide something. 3 establish by research or calculation.
standard
n. 1 a level of quality or achievement. 2 a required or accepted level of quality or achievement. 3 something used as a measure in order to make comparisons. 4 (standards): principles of good behaviour. 5 a military or ceremonial flag. adj. 1 used or accepted as normal or average. 2 (of a size, measure, etc.) regularly used or produced. 3 (of a work, writer, etc.) viewed as having authority and so widely read.
blood
n. 1 the red liquid that circulates in the arteries and veins, carrying oxygen and carbon dioxide. 2 family background: she must have Irish blood. v. initiate someone in an activity. be (or run) in your blood: be a fundamental or inherited part of your character. first blood: the first advantage gained in a contest. have blood on your hands: be responsible for someone’s death. make someone’s blood boil: informal: make someone very angry. new (or fresh) blood: new people who join a group and often give it fresh ideas.
news
n. 1 new information about recent events. 2 (the news): a broadcast or published news report. 3 (news to): informal: information not previously known to someone.
bag
n. 1 a flexible container with an opening at the top. 2 (bags): loose folds of skin under a person’s eyes. 3 (bags of): Brit. informal: plenty of. 4 informal: an unpleasant or unattractive woman. v. 1 put in a bag. 2 manage to kill or catch an animal. 3 informal: manage to get. in the bag: informal: sure to be gained.
international
adj. 1 existing or occurring between nations. 2 agreed on or used by all or many nations. n. Brit: 1 a game or contest between teams from different countries. 2 a player who has taken part in a contest between teams from different countries.
explain
v. 1 make clear by giving a detailed description. 2 give a reason for. 3 be the cause of or motivating factor for. 4 (explain yourself): justify your motives or behaviour. 5 (explain something away): make something seem less embarrassing by giving an excuse for it.
hit
1 strike with the hand or a tool, bat, etc. 2 (of something moving) come into contact with someone or something quickly and forcefully. 3 strike a target. 4 cause harm or distress to. 5 (hit out): criticize or attack strongly. 6 be suddenly realized by: it hit me that I was successful. 7 (hit on): suddenly discover or think of. n. 1 an instance of hitting or being hit. 2 a successful film, pop record, etc. 3 Computing: an instance of picking out an item of data which matches the requirements of a search. 4 an instance of a particular website being accessed by a user. 5 informal, esp. N. Amer.: a murder carried out by a criminal organization. 6 informal: a dose of an addictive drug. hit-and-miss: done or occurring at random. hit-and-run: (of a road accident) from which the driver responsible leaves rapidly without helping the other people involved. hit someone below the belt: 1 Boxing: give an opponent an illegal low blow. 2 behave unfairly towards someone. hit it off: informal: be naturally well suited. hit the nail on the head: be exactly right.
ask
v. 1 say something so as to get an answer or some information. 2 say that you want someone to do, give, or allow something. 3 (ask for): request to speak to. 4 expect something of someone. 5 invite someone to a social occasion. 6 (ask someone out): invite someone out on a date. 7 (ask after): Brit.: make polite enquiries about someone’s health or well-being. for the asking: for little or no effort or cost.
may
modal v. (3rd sing present: may; past: might) 1 expressing possibility. 2 asking for or giving permission. 3 expressing a wish.
down 3
n. 1 a gently rolling hill. 2 (the Downs): an area of hills in southern England.
simply
adv. 1 in a simple way. 2 just; merely. 3 absolutely: the plants are simply wonderful.
who
pron. 1 what or which person or people? 2 introducing a clause giving further information about a person or people previously mentioned.
death
n. 1 the action of dying. 2 an instance of a person or an animal dying. 3 the state of being dead. 4 the end of something. at death’s door: so ill that you may die. catch your death (of cold): informal: catch a severe cold. die a death: fail or come to an end. put someone to death: execute someone. to death: used for emphasis: I’m sick to death of him.
tonight
adv. on the evening or night of the present day. n. the evening or night of the present day.
college
n. 1 an educational establishment providing higher education or specialized training. 2 (in Britain) any of the independent institutions into which some universities are separated.
plan
n. 1 a detailed proposal for doing or achieving something. 2 an intention. 3 a scheme for making regular payments towards a pension, insurance policy, etc. 4 a map or diagram. v. 1 decide on and arrange something in advance. 2 (plan for): make preparations for. 3 make a plan of something to be made or built.
save 2
prep. and conj. formal: except.
past
adj. 1 gone by in time and no longer existing. 2 (of time) that has gone by. 3 Grammar: (of a tense) expressing a past action or state. n. 1 a past period or the events in it. 2 a person’s earlier life. 3 Grammar: a past tense or form of a verb. prep. 1 beyond in time or space. 2 in front of or from one side to the other of. 3 beyond the scope or power of. adv. 1 so as to pass from one side to the other. 2 used to indicate the passage of time.
hear
v. 1 be aware of a sound with the ears. 2 be told about. 3 (have heard of): be aware of the existence of. 4 (hear from): receive a letter, phone call, or other communication from. 5 listen to. 6 listen to and judge a case or person bringing a case in a law court. hear! hear!: used to show agreement with something said in a speech.
type
n. 1 a category of people or things that share particular qualities or features: a new type of battery. 2 informal: a person of a particular nature: a sporty type. 3 printed characters or letters. v. write using a typewriter or computer.
positive
adj. 1 showing the presence rather than the absence of particular features: a positive test result. 2 expressing agreement, confirmation, or permission. 3 hopeful, favourable, or confident. 4 with no possibility of doubt; certain. 5 (of a quantity) greater than zero. 6 relating to the kind of electric charge opposite to that carried by electrons. 7 (of a photograph) showing light and shade or colours true to the original. 8 (of an adjective or adverb) expressing the basic degree of a quality (e.g. brave). Contrasted with: comparative and: superlative. n. a positive quality.
reality
n. 1 the state of things as they actually exist: he refuses to face reality. 2 a thing that is real. 3 the state of being real. adj. referring to television programmes based on real people or situations, intended to be entertaining rather than informative: reality TV.
talk
v. 1 speak in order to give information or express ideas or feelings. 2 be able to speak. 3 (talk something over/through): discuss something thoroughly. 4 (talk back): reply in a defiant or cheeky way. 5 (talk down to): speak to someone in a way that suggests you feel superior to them. 6 (talk someone round): persuade someone to accept or agree to something. 7 (talk someone into/out of): convince someone to do or not to do something. 8 reveal secret information. n. 1 conversation. 2 a speech or lecture. 3 (talks): formal discussions. 4 rumour or gossip.
friend
n. 1 a person you like and know well. 2 a contact on a social networking website. 3 a person who supports a particular cause or organization. 4 (Friend): a Quaker. v. informal: add someone to a list of friends or contacts on a social networking website.
guy 2
n. a rope or line fixed to the ground to secure a tent.
how
adv. 1 in what way or by what means. 2 in what condition. 3 to what extent or degree. 4 the way in which. how about?: would you like? how do you?: said when meeting someone for the first time in a formal situation. how many: what number. how much: what amount or price.
left 1
adj. 1 on or towards the side of a person or of a thing which is to the west when the person or thing is facing north. 2 relating to a left-wing person or group. adv. on or to the left side. n. 1 (the left): the left-hand side or direction. 2 a left turn. 3 a person’s left fist, or a blow given with it. 4 (the Left): a left-wing group or party.
range
n. 1 the limits between which something varies: a population in the range of 250,000 to 1 million. 2 a set of different things of the same general type: a wide range of activities. 3 the distance over which a sound, missile, etc. can travel: he sat down within range of the rifles. 4 a line of mountains or hills. 5 a large area of open land for grazing or hunting. 6 an area used as a testing ground for military equipment or for shooting practice. 7 a large cooking stove with several burners or hotplates. v. 1 vary between particular limits. 2 arrange things in a row or rows or in a particular way. 3 (range against): be in opposition to. 4 travel over or cover a wide area.
discover
v. 1 find unexpectedly or during a search. 2 become aware of a fact or situation. 3 be the first to find or observe a place, substance, or scientific phenomenon.
everyone
pron. every person.
child
n. 1 a young human being below the age of full physical development. 2 a son or daughter of any age. child’s play: an easy task. with child: old use: pregnant.
send
v. (sends, sending, sent) 1 cause something to go or be taken to a destination. 2 move something sharply or quickly. 3 cause to be in a specified state: the traffic nearly sent me crazy. send someone down: Brit.: 1 expel a student from a university. 2 informal: sentence someone to imprisonment. send for: 1 order someone to come. 2 order by post. send someone off: (of a soccer or rugby referee) order a player to leave the field and take no further part in the game. send someone to Coventry: esp. Brit.: refuse to speak to someone. send someone up: informal, esp. Brit.: make fun of someone by imitating them.
weapon
n. 1 a thing designed or used to cause physical harm or damage. 2 a means of gaining an advantage or defending yourself.
close 1
adj. 1 only a short distance away or apart in space or time. 2 (of a connection or likeness) strong. 3 (of a person) part of someone’s immediate family. 4 (of a relationship or the people in it) very affectionate or intimate. 5 (of observation or examination) done in a careful and thorough way. 6 uncomfortably humid or airless. adv. so as to be very near. n. Brit.: 1 a residential street from which there is no access to other streets. 2 the grounds surrounding a cathedral. at (or: from) close quarters (or: range) very near. close-knit: (of a group of people) united by strong relationships and common interests. close-run: (of a contest) won or lost by a very small margin. close shave: (also: close call): informal: a narrow escape from danger or disaster.
arm 1
n. 1 each of the two upper limbs of the human body from the shoulder to the hand. 2 a side part of a chair that supports a sitter’s arm. 3 a strip of water or land extending from a larger body. 4 a branch of division of an organization. cost an arm and a leg: informal: be very expensive. keep someone/thing at arm’s length: avoid close or friendly contact with someone or something. with open arms: with great warmth or enthusiasm.
former 1
adj. 1 having been previously. 2 in the past: in former times. 3 (the former): referring to the first of two things mentioned.
direction
n. 1 a course along which someone or something moves, or which leads to a destination. 2 a point to or from which a person or thing moves or faces: a house with views in all directions. 3 the management or guidance of someone or something. 4 (directions): instructions on how to reach a destination or how to do something.
compare
v. 1 estimate, measure, or note the similarity or difference between: there was a drop in sales compared to last year. 2 (compare something to): describe the resemblances of something with something else. 3 (usu.: compare with): be similar to or have a specified relationship with another thing or person.
first
ordinal number: 1 coming before all others in time, order, or importance; 1st. 2 before doing something else. 3 informal: something never previously done or occurring: travelling by air was a first for us. 4 Brit.: a place in the top grade in an exam for a degree. at first: at the beginning. of the first order: of the highest quality.
ground 1
n. 1 the solid surface of the earth. 2 land or soil of a particular kind: marshy ground. 3 an area of land or sea with a particular use: fishing grounds. 4 (grounds): an area of enclosed land surrounding a large house. 5 (grounds): reasons for doing or thinking something: there are some grounds for optimism. 6 (grounds): small pieces of solid matter in a liquid, especially coffee, which settle at the bottom. v. 1 ban or prevent a pilot or aircraft from flying. 2 run a ship aground. 3 (be grounded in/on): have as a basis. 4 informal: (of a parent) refuse to allow a child to go out socially, as a punishment. be thick (or: thin) on the ground: exist in large (or small) numbers or amounts. break new ground: achieve or create something new. get off the ground: start happening or functioning successfully. give (or: lose) ground: retreat or lose your advantage. hold (or: stand) your ground: not retreat or lose your advantage.
buy
v. 1 get something in return for payment. 2 get something by sacrifice or great effort. 3 informal: accept the truth of. n. informal: a purchase. buy someone out: pay someone to give up a share in something.
receive
v. 1 be given or paid something. 2 accept or take in something sent or offered. 3 form an idea from an experience. 4 experience or meet with: the event received wide press coverage. 5 entertain someone as a guest. 6 admit someone as a member. 7 detect or pick up broadcast signals. 8 (as adj.: received): widely accepted as true.
