comfort1 nouncomfort2 verb
comfortcom‧fort1 /ˈkʌmfət $ -ərt/ ●●○ W3 noun 
EXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
- After he became rich, he lived a life of idleness and comfort.
- Emily goes to a women's group for comfort and emotional support.
- Her faith gave her comfort during a very difficult time.
- The family has taken some comfort from the fact that her conditions has stabilized.
- The hotel staff made sure nothing disturbed our comfort or enjoyment.
- Your letter brought me great comfort after John died.
- And there are other things about my job that remind me too much of Ghostbusters for comfort.
- Headroom isn't such a problem, though, and actual rear seat comfort is very good.
- I was even earning enough to support myself in modest comfort.
- It does not originate in the comforts of religion.
- Jesse Jackson has had entree to those countries and could be perceived as giving comfort to them.
- She was no longer a threat to him, but a source of comfort and hope.
- We opted for comfort and retired to our favourite chippie for lots of it.
Longman Language Activatorto make someone feel less upset, sad, worried, etc
to comfort someone, for example by telling them there is nothing to worry about or putting your arms around them: · He tried to comfort her by telling her that everything would be all right.· Joyce did her best to comfort him, assuring him that it was not his fault.· The two sisters hugged each other, sharing their grief and comforting one another.
to say something to someone or give them something that makes them feel less upset, sad, worried etc: · What can I do to make you feel better?· It might make you feel better to eat something.· Why don't you tell me what's troubling you? It'll make you feel better.
to make someone feel happier when they are disappointed or sad about something: · Thanks for the card. It really cheered me up.· I'm taking Jenny out tonight to cheer her up.· I tried to think of something to say to cheer him up.
written to comfort someone when they feel unhappy or disappointed, especially by saying something that makes them realize the situation is not so bad: · A priest was called in to console victims' families.· I wanted to console her, but I didn't know how.console yourself with something: · Archer consoled himself with the thought that at least he had done his best.
to make someone feel less worried or frightened about a situation, for example by being friendly to them or by telling them there is nothing to worry about: · My mother did her best to reassure me, but I still felt nervous and insecure.reassure somebody about something: · The company tried to reassure shareholders about the safety of their stocks.reassure somebody that: · The doctor did his best to reassure us that Cindy would be all right.· The president reassured voters that there would be no tax increase.· I tried to reassure her that she had made the right decision in turning down the job.
to make someone feel more calm and relaxed when they are upset, anxious, or nervous: · When the baby cried, his mother soothed him by stroking his hot little head.· Maybe a drink would help soothe your nerves.
spoken say this to tell someone to stop feeling disappointed or sad and try to be more cheerful: · Cheer up! It's not that bad.· Cheer up, Phil. You'll find another job.
spoken say this when you want to make someone less worried or nervous, because you do not think there is anything to be worried or nervous about: · Don't worry. The doctor says it's just a bad cold.· Don't worry! The flight's not until 9:30. We have plenty of time.
making you feel less upset, sad, worried etc · It was comforting to see the lights of home.· Stefan tried to think of something comforting to say.· She laid a comforting hand on my arm.
something that is soothing makes you feel calm and relaxed when you are upset, anxious, or nervous: · My mother had a gentle, soothing voice.· I love Mozart's music. I find it very soothing.· The shower was wonderfully soothing.
making you feel less worried or frightened about something: · The teacher gave him a reassuring smile.· My dad tried to sound calm and reassuring.enormously reassuring (=very reassuring): · I found his words enormously reassuring.
especially written something that is consoling , especially something that someone says, makes you feel better when you are unhappy or disappointed: · What you said about George was very consoling.· I didn't find his words very consoling.· He nodded and put a consoling arm around her shoulders.
a happier feeling after you have been upset, worried, etc · Emily goes to a women's group for comfort and emotional support.bring/give comfort · Your letter brought me great comfort after John died.· Her faith gave her comfort during a very difficult time.take/draw comfort from · The family has taken some comfort from the fact that her condition has stabilized.
the feeling you have when something worrying or frightening has ended or has not happened: · When the plane finally landed, we all felt a tremendous sense of relief.· It was a great relief to know that the children were safe.that's a relief!/what a relief!: · What a relief! We were so worried about you.· What a relief to finally get away from the office.to your relief (=making you feel relief): · To our relief, the deal went through without any problems.heave/breathe a sigh of relief (=breathe loudly to show your relief): · She breathed a sign of relief when he finally answered the phone.
a thought or fact that makes you feel less disappointed or sad, for example when someone has died or when you have just heard some disappointing news: · It was some consolation to know that he could take the exam again.· My one consolation is that she died peacefully.take (some) consolation: · It was difficult to say goodbye, but I took some consolation from the fact that I would see her again at the end of the year.
feeling comfortable also comfy spoken informal feeling physically relaxed, for example because you are sitting on a soft chair or lying on a soft bed: · I was so warm and comfortable in bed that I didn't want to get up.· You'll probably be more comfortable if you tilt the seat back.· "Comfy?" "Yes, thanks."make yourself comfortable: · Sit down and make yourselves comfortable while I get us some coffee.
feeling comfortable and happy when you are sitting down or in bed because you are in a warm place: · She looks really snug under all those blankets.
if you do something in comfort , you are comfortable while you are doing it: · Travelling first class allows you to enjoy your journey in comfort.· Now you can watch your favorite movies in the comfort of your own home.
· The hotel staff made sure nothing disturbed our comfort or enjoyment.· After he became rich, he lived a life of idleness and comfort.
things that make you feel comfortable things that make your life more pleasant and comfortable, especially things that are not completely necessary but which you are used to having in your home: · She was starting to miss the familiar comforts of her home in Massachusetts.material comforts (=comforts such as money and possessions): · We enjoyed the material comforts of the booming economy.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRY Meaning 2verbs
There was only one crumb of comfort – Alex hadn’t said anything to Jeff. Investors can take comfort from the fact that the World Bank is underwriting the shares.
· The family has taken comfort from the support of friends.
formal (=take comfort from something)· Economists have been quick to draw comfort from the latest figures.
· He had been through a similar experience and she found comfort in that.
· Volunteers are available to offer comfort and advice.
· It was impossible to give her any comfort.
· Religious belief can bring comfort during times of stress.
· Talking about your problems may provide some comfort.
(=look for comfort)· People come to us seeking comfort and guidance.
adjectives· Your letters have been a great comfort to me.
(=not much comfort)· The tax changes will provide cold comfort to people living on a pension.
phrases· He tried to find some words of comfort that would help her.
· Some people eat as a source of comfort.
(=a very small amount)· ‘You’re no worse than the rest,’ the football coach said, trying to offer me a crumb of comfort.
(=used to say something that may make someone less worried or unhappy)· If it’s any comfort, you very nearly passed the exam.
comfort + NOUN (=food that you eat to make you feel relaxed and happy)· I find pasta and cheese is a great comfort food.
COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES There was only one crumb of comfort – Alex hadn’t said anything to Jeff. Investors can take comfort from the fact that the World Bank is underwriting the shares.· ‘People might not have noticed we’re late.’ ‘That’s a comforting thought.’
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSADJECTIVE· Lightning dipped and veered in a manner which was far too close for comfort.· Cross-addictions may be hotly denied because the subject matter may for some be too close for comfort.· That had been too close for comfort.· But his shot was too close for comfort and Philip Whitehead cleverly smothered the ball.
· Kawai's Trilby Cold comforts of a hotel room: the air-conditioning and fridge join forces for a chummy hum, barbershop-style.· But this opposition misleads; charisma is cold comfort without expert management.· Precedent, however, suggests that his comments will offer only cold comfort to Mr Jiang and Mr Li.· Brussels brings cold comfort to sheep farmers.· It's cold comfort, of course, when there isn't much of a market to have a share of.· It is actually much easier than appearances would suggest - cold comfort when it looks impossible!· Mellor's self-styled heroics were cold comfort for his team leader, John Major.· It was cold comfort, all right.
· Thank you for your letters which have been a great comfort to us.· In times of stress, food can be a great source of comfort!· To me, this continuity is a great source of comfort in a world of change, tension and violence.· For the quieter members of his team, he could be a great source of comfort and inspiration.· Evidence from the first and second waves of reform does not give great comfort to reformers.· I felt no great assurance of comfort, but my conviction of evil grew a little less.· Shanti and Chris were very helpful in every way, and Shanti's ready laughter and general cheerfulness was a great comfort.· He lived in beautiful houses, travelled the world in the greatest of comfort, and wanted for nothing.
· The layout below allows the owner to live in a high degree of comfort.· User Friendly City of Angels offers a user-friendly professional atmosphere coupled with a high level of comfort.· The House can accommodate up to 22 persons and offers a very high standard of comfort.· It is well appointed throughout, offering a high standard of comfort service and cuisine.· With 18 well-appointed bedrooms, it has excellent facilities and assures the highest standards of comfort and service.
· I am little comfort to her, but in this scenario little things mean a lot.· Every man needs a little comfort, especially when his number could be up tomorrow.· It was only later you focussed on yourself enough to cry for the little comfort flesh can offer.· When morning came, it brought us a little comfort in the softer atmosphere and pleasant sunshine, but no breakfast.· But, he adds, he believes that he is right, which provides little comfort.· Subconsciously, they scupper their own efforts to gain a little comfort.· There is little comfort for foreign creditors hoping for an end to the six-month moratorium on debt payments.
· The unworldly, peace-loving doctor, oblivious of both material comfort and public opinion, is in some respects a self-portrait.· He wanted to enjoy this lull and the reasonable material comfort.
· Shown here is the Regal Supreme, supplied complete with a pocket-sprung mattress to bring modern comfort to antique furniture.· Bereft of modern comforts, Noland attempts to cope with his prison of solitude.· Inside, modern comforts and period features combine.· Bedrooms are tastefully furnished and combine all modern comforts and facilities with the gracious style of a Tyrolean hunting lodge.· Enjoy all modern comforts in an historic parador omitted information addresses Regional delicacies Each region has its own specialities.· It is called the San Romano and has been completely restored to offer all modern comforts.· The hotel combines Tyrolean hospitality with all modern comforts in a luxurious setting with a high standard of service.· Ample free parking. £24* Country Court Hotel Set around a garden courtyard, this new hotel offers every modern comfort.
· In that respect alone Sydney has a huge advantage over Atlanta in relative human comfort.· There was something else Dilip offered me, the seductions of relative comfort.
· The survival of slimmed-down companies is small comfort for people made redundant.· Now, even these small comforts must be questioned.· Perhaps it was ready? Small comfort, through ten guilt-ridden days.· Rosy statistics on aggregate food production offer small comfort to nations that can not afford a seat at the banquet.· Then a small spark of comfort occurred to him.· Erratic hot winds kept the air thick with dust, and the fan gave small comfort to the feverish, aching children.· It was small comfort that he believed in what he chose to do.· They could explore the area, learn its resources and contrive small comforts in their rooms.
NOUN· His attitude towards creature comforts was demonstrated by his regimen in Downing Street.· The crews made on-the-spot modifications to increase protection, firepower, or creature comforts.
· What's your favourite comfort food?· My sister-in-law Joy has another twist on this white / yellow / butter / salt / sweet comfort food thing.· But I argue that the lack of comfort food can also kill you.· There is no disputing their place on the list of comfort foods.· A lot of people consider macaroni and cheese the ultimate comfort food, but it has never enchanted us.· The color of saffron, with dollops of red tomatoes flecked throughout, this hot potage goes beyond comfort food.· This, it seems, is the truest expression of comfort food!
· In general, the thicker the mat, the greater the comfort level.· In general, my advice to parents is to let your children read and reread books at their own comfort level.· They are said to be generally positive to the takeover but still need to achieve certain comfort levels.· In the first place, sleeping bags offer zero padding, which tends to cut down considerably on the comfort level.· But it can greatly increase comfort levels in cost weather, and can help cut down on condensation too.· Newer ones are said to work better, and there are things you can do to increase your comfort level.· Then, he sets his virtual environment to run just a little faster than that comfort level.
· The team were still wrapped together in the comfort zone of a four-year period when each had cosseted and protected the other.· Many investors struggle to get past the comfort zone of mutual funds.· The width of the comfort zone can then be taken as 4 degrees, i.e., from-2 to.· The Chargers took the Raiders out of a lot of things, including their comfort zone.· The easiest thing in this situation is to do nothing and rest miserably in the comfort zone of doing something predictable.
VERB· Gloria hopes that I can bring her some comfort.· When morning came, it brought us a little comfort in the softer atmosphere and pleasant sunshine, but no breakfast.· Shown here is the Regal Supreme, supplied complete with a pocket-sprung mattress to bring modern comfort to antique furniture.· Our aim: to bring help and comfort to poor, hungry, sick and needy children throughout the world.· Your proposal brings me no comfort whatever, but I suppose I have little alternative.· The thought didn't seem to bring him any comfort.· All contracts and agreements-business or personal-will bring comfort instead of stress.· Brussels brings cold comfort to sheep farmers.
· From those two virtues derive the tranquillity, comfort, and content of domesticity.· Then she decided to wash her hair, thinking she might derive some comfort from this familiar rite.
· The Ventrola tennis shoe is designed for comfort and performance.· These traditionally built homes are designed with comfort and convenience in mind.· Inside, it has been designed to combine comfort with an elegant, sporty appearance.· The first stage of the scheme is designed to improve comfort and safety.· Aprilia says it has been designed for comfort and versatility.· The innermost layer was designed for comfort and was made from lightweight nylon.
· But he warned against drawing false comfort from that.· Either way, the rest of us can draw comfort from the fact that all these experts are befuddled, too.· But most families draw comfort from order.· I draw some comfort from that fact, because it reflects our maturity in dealing with such matters.· They may draw some comfort from a survey revealing recession-hit parents are still prepared to spend out on youngsters.· The Republicans drew comfort from the fact that trends of opinion had, for some time, been moving in their direction.· She drew some comfort from him and then continued.· He drew some comfort from the expectation that revision would be necessary inside a year or two.
· Virtual reality will turn the weekly supermarket shop into a pleasure to be enjoyed from the comfort of the armchair.· The hotel is the perfect choice for those who enjoy their comfort and appreciate quality and good food.· Or simply enjoy the homely comfort of the inn restaurant.· She could not remember when she had last enjoyed such comfort.· Stretching luxuriously, she enjoyed the warm comfort of the bed.· Six residents are currently living there and enjoying the comforts of a very homely atmosphere.
· I could only hope to be happy, and find comfort in the hope, as people do, wherever they are.· They tried to find comfort in knowing they had done their best.· But as the days stretched into tedious weeks Creggan found strange comfort in the silent presence of Slorne in the adjacent cage.· But we did find comfort in knowing the food was there.· Both have been unlucky in love, but have found comfort in each other.· Here were people incomparably worse off than I was, finding what comfort they could at seventy-five cents a night.· In her loneliness Eleanor found no comfort in the geography of New York's lower east side.· The first to rise asks Lisa how she finds comfort in cutting herself and tearing out her hair.
· Since the bombing had started, the ritual checking of number seven Lyra Street had given Vi comfort.· It must be the familiar weight in his hands that gave comfort.· Evidence from the first and second waves of reform does not give great comfort to reformers.· Jesse Jackson has had entree to those countries and could be perceived as giving comfort to them.· It kept out the cold and gave strength and comfort beyond its natural powers.· There were cars following behind, the photographers and the reporters no doubt, and their headlights gave an odd comfort.· His book does more than attempt to give comfort to those who have been bereaved.· A board placed under the mattress gave additional comfort to her back.
· Six adults live aboard in reasonable comfort when the main cabin berth is used as a double.· I ask Ron what level of salary he would need to live at a minimal comfort level in San Francisco.· If I had the wherewithal to live in comfort, I wouldn't fritter it away.· How can retired people live in comfort?
· I did what I could to offer comfort to the family.· Learning how few people actually had paralytic polio offered no comfort to me.· The wife may have a shrewd idea, but may offer comfort without choosing to seek out the source of the pain.· Unable to offer even partial comfort here and now, they promised a glorious messianic redemption in the end of days.· He thought that he should touch her, offer her comfort.· Teachers are on hand to offer comfort and advice.· They offer comfort without the need for action.· It is called the San Romano and has been completely restored to offer all modern comforts.
· Its unique Hydractive suspension provides genuinely superb comfort on most roads while the cabin is as roomy as they come.· Side by side, respirator patients provided comfort, encouragement, and community for one another.· The longer you provide wifely comforts while he obsesses about this woman, the worse it's going to be.· The dull lights behind the large windows provide no comfort.· London experts in international law said that his release would provide little comfort for others who transgressed the norms of civilised behaviour.· It provides momentary comfort, but does little to break a troublesome habit or cure a nagging infection.· They provided new comforts for passengers, with their upholstered seats and faster running. 1.· He would provide her the comfort and concern that she needed.
· Jackie tries to explain she was at her lowest ebb when she sought comfort from Shelley.· I spoke to James, Janet, and Pat on the phone every day, seeking comfort and advice.· Down here are more of the older fellers, seeking comfort at the bar.· Or shall we seek comfort in the language of religion?· The instincts of hens, therefore, are to seek cover and the comfort of their fellows.· According to the sculptor, it symbolises the way in which victims of nasty remarks often seek comfort in chocolate.· It will often seek a comfort letter to that effect from the offeror's financial adviser.· But how could I seek comfort?
· Perhaps he should be practical and take a wife for comfort.· Rice takes comfort in visiting some clients with a. 380 Sig Sauer tucked in his Langlitz.· She was a grown woman, she was entitled to take a bit of comfort as and when she pleased.· Evidently, some one has been living beneath my kitchen floor, taking comfort in the heat of my boiler.· The Liberal Democrats can take no comfort from the result.· And investors betting for another big year can take comfort from this: The market gurus have been known to be wrong.
PHRASES FROM THE ENTRY► comfortsPHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES
- The business won't go bankrupt, but that's cold comfort to the 15 people who lost their jobs.
- But this opposition misleads; charisma is cold comfort without expert management.
- Erratic hot winds kept the air thick with dust, and the fan gave small comfort to the feverish, aching children.
- Now, even these small comforts must be questioned.
- Perhaps it was ready? Small comfort, through ten guilt-ridden days.
- Precedent, however, suggests that his comments will offer only cold comfort to Mr Jiang and Mr Li.
- Rosy statistics on aggregate food production offer small comfort to nations that can not afford a seat at the banquet.
- The survival of slimmed-down companies is small comfort for people made redundant.
- They could explore the area, learn its resources and contrive small comforts in their rooms.
- At times, the similarities are too close for comfort, edging towards the derivative.
- But our last memory was of a nightingale pair, singing in competition in territories perhaps too close for comfort.
- Cross-addictions may be hotly denied because the subject matter may for some be too close for comfort.
- In a wave trough I caught a glimpse of a coral head to port: a little too close for comfort.
- Lightning dipped and veered in a manner which was far too close for comfort.
- Richard, and you quite see why, finds economy airline seats too close for comfort.
- The movement brought him too close for comfort.
- That car that came around the corner was just a little too close for comfort.
- At times, the similarities are too close for comfort, edging towards the derivative.
- But our last memory was of a nightingale pair, singing in competition in territories perhaps too close for comfort.
- Cross-addictions may be hotly denied because the subject matter may for some be too close for comfort.
- In a wave trough I caught a glimpse of a coral head to port: a little too close for comfort.
- Lightning dipped and veered in a manner which was far too close for comfort.
- Richard, and you quite see why, finds economy airline seats too close for comfort.
- The movement brought him too close for comfort.
- I enjoyed this comparative freedom and spent a lot of time pacing around the cell.
- The comparative freedom that the close presence of grandparents afforded wives contributed significantly to the high standard of farming seen.
- Ana seemed to find pleasure in simply listening, though.
- But we did find comfort in knowing the food was there.
- Dorothy Wordsworth found fulfilment in ways that elude precise analysis.
- He glanced at Rock Hardy, finding comfort in the familiar face. 5.03 already!
- I could only hope to be happy, and find comfort in the hope, as people do, wherever they are.
- They learned to tolerate loneliness, and find comfort in people, fantasies or activities outside the family.
- They tried to find comfort in knowing they had done their best.
WORD FAMILYnouncomfortdiscomfortcomforteradjectivecomfortable ≠ uncomfortablecomfortingadverbcomfortably ≠ uncomfortablycomfortinglyverbcomfort
1physical [uncountable] a feeling of being physically relaxed and satisfied, so that nothing is hurting you, making you feel too hot or cold etcbuilt/made/designed for comfort All our sports shoes are designed for comfort and performance.too hot/high/tight etc for comfort (=physically unpleasant for a particular reason) The temperature was too low for comfort. I dress for comfort, not fashion. Alan was very reluctant to leave the warmth and comfort of the fire.in comfort Upstairs is a more intimate bar where guests can relax in comfort. Now you can watch your favorite movies in the comfort of your own home.2emotional [uncountable] if someone or something gives you comfort, they make you feel calmer, happier, or more hopeful after you have been worried or unhappy: Whenever he was upset, he would turn to her for comfort and advice.give/bring/provide/offer comfort a book which offers comfort and help to the parents of children with cancer The knowledge that Cara was safe gave him some comfort.great/much/little comfort My faith has been a source of great comfort over the years.take/draw/derive comfort from (doing) something He drew comfort from her warm support.find/take comfort in (doing) something You can take some comfort in the fact that you did your best.it’s no/some comfort It was no comfort to think he might be as frightened as she was.if it’s any comfort (=used to introduce a statement that you think may make someone feel slightly less worried or unhappy) Well, if it’s any comfort, I don’t think he’ll try again.3somebody/something that helps [countable] someone or something that helps you feel calmer, happier, or more hopeful after you have been worried or unhappybe a comfort (to somebody) Louisa’s been a great comfort to me since Mary died. It’s a comfort to know there’s someone to keep an eye on the kids.4money/possessions [uncountable] a way of living in which you have all the money and possessions that you need or wantin comfort When Dad died, he left us both enough to live in comfort for the rest of our lives. He was used to a life of comfort.5comforts [plural] the things that make your life nicer and more comfortable, especially things that are not necessary: Modern caravans offer all the comforts of home. hotels with all the modern comforts (=things such as a television, telephone etc)material comforts (=money and possessions) → creature comforts6too close/near for comfort something that is too close for comfort makes you feel worried, unhappy, or uncomfortable, because it is dangerous in some way: The cars were whizzing past us much too close for comfort.7cold/small comfort a small piece of good news that does not make you feel better about a bad situationcomfort for/to Another drop in the inflation rate was cold comfort yesterday for the 2.74 million jobless. → comfort food, comfort zoneCOLLOCATIONS– Meaning 2verbstake comfort from something· The family has taken comfort from the support of friends.draw/derive comfort from something formal (=take comfort from something)· Economists have been quick to draw comfort from the latest figures.find/take comfort in something· He had been through a similar experience and she found comfort in that.offer (somebody) comfort· Volunteers are available to offer comfort and advice.give (somebody) comfort· It was impossible to give her any comfort.bring (somebody) comfort· Religious belief can bring comfort during times of stress.provide comfort· Talking about your problems may provide some comfort.seek comfort (=look for comfort)· People come to us seeking comfort and guidance.adjectivesgreat comfort· Your letters have been a great comfort to me.cold/small comfort (=not much comfort)· The tax changes will provide cold comfort to people living on a pension.phrasesa word of comfort· He tried to find some words of comfort that would help her.a source of comfort· Some people eat as a source of comfort.a crumb of comfort (=a very small amount)· ‘You’re no worse than the rest,’ the football coach said, trying to offer me a crumb of comfort.if it’s any comfort (=used to say something that may make someone less worried or unhappy)· If it’s any comfort, you very nearly passed the exam.comfort + NOUNcomfort food (=food that you eat to make you feel relaxed and happy)· I find pasta and cheese is a great comfort food.comfort1 nouncomfort2 verb
comfortcomfort2 ●●○ verb [transitive] WORD ORIGINcomfort2
Origin:
1100-1200 Old French conforter, from Late Latin confortare ‘to strengthen’, from Latin com- ( ➔ COM-) + fortis ‘strong’VERB TABLE
comfort
| Simple Form | ||
| Present | I, you, we, they | comfort |
| he, she, it | comforts | |
| Past | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | comforted |
| Present perfect | I, you, we, they | have comforted |
| he, she, it | has comforted | |
| Past perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | had comforted |
| Future | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will comfort |
| Future perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will have comforted |
| Continuous Form | ||
| Present | I | am comforting |
| he, she, it | is comforting | |
| you, we, they | are comforting | |
| Past | I, he, she, it | was comforting |
| you, we, they | were comforting | |
| Present perfect | I, you, we, they | have been comforting |
| he, she, it | has been comforting | |
| Past perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | had been comforting |
| Future | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will be comforting |
| Future perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will have been comforting |
EXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
- Bill stroked her hair gently, trying to comfort her.
- He tried to comfort her by telling her that everything would be all right.
- Joyce did her best to comfort him, assuring him that it was not his fault.
- Lisa, in tears, was being comforted by her mother.
- The two sisters hugged each other, sharing their grief and comforting one another.
- We did our best to comfort him, but he was obviously very upset.
- Come, be comforted, he shan't fright you.
- He ached to reach out and hold Tsu Ma close, to comfort him, but knew it would be wrong.
- Many people ignore this sign, comforting themselves that they probably brushed too hard.
- Venus took her leave greatly comforted, but to make matters still more sure she turned for help to her son Cupid.
Longman Language Activatorto make someone feel less upset, sad, worried, etc
to comfort someone, for example by telling them there is nothing to worry about or putting your arms around them: · He tried to comfort her by telling her that everything would be all right.· Joyce did her best to comfort him, assuring him that it was not his fault.· The two sisters hugged each other, sharing their grief and comforting one another.
to say something to someone or give them something that makes them feel less upset, sad, worried etc: · What can I do to make you feel better?· It might make you feel better to eat something.· Why don't you tell me what's troubling you? It'll make you feel better.
to make someone feel happier when they are disappointed or sad about something: · Thanks for the card. It really cheered me up.· I'm taking Jenny out tonight to cheer her up.· I tried to think of something to say to cheer him up.
written to comfort someone when they feel unhappy or disappointed, especially by saying something that makes them realize the situation is not so bad: · A priest was called in to console victims' families.· I wanted to console her, but I didn't know how.console yourself with something: · Archer consoled himself with the thought that at least he had done his best.
to make someone feel less worried or frightened about a situation, for example by being friendly to them or by telling them there is nothing to worry about: · My mother did her best to reassure me, but I still felt nervous and insecure.reassure somebody about something: · The company tried to reassure shareholders about the safety of their stocks.reassure somebody that: · The doctor did his best to reassure us that Cindy would be all right.· The president reassured voters that there would be no tax increase.· I tried to reassure her that she had made the right decision in turning down the job.
to make someone feel more calm and relaxed when they are upset, anxious, or nervous: · When the baby cried, his mother soothed him by stroking his hot little head.· Maybe a drink would help soothe your nerves.
spoken say this to tell someone to stop feeling disappointed or sad and try to be more cheerful: · Cheer up! It's not that bad.· Cheer up, Phil. You'll find another job.
spoken say this when you want to make someone less worried or nervous, because you do not think there is anything to be worried or nervous about: · Don't worry. The doctor says it's just a bad cold.· Don't worry! The flight's not until 9:30. We have plenty of time.
making you feel less upset, sad, worried etc · It was comforting to see the lights of home.· Stefan tried to think of something comforting to say.· She laid a comforting hand on my arm.
something that is soothing makes you feel calm and relaxed when you are upset, anxious, or nervous: · My mother had a gentle, soothing voice.· I love Mozart's music. I find it very soothing.· The shower was wonderfully soothing.
making you feel less worried or frightened about something: · The teacher gave him a reassuring smile.· My dad tried to sound calm and reassuring.enormously reassuring (=very reassuring): · I found his words enormously reassuring.
especially written something that is consoling , especially something that someone says, makes you feel better when you are unhappy or disappointed: · What you said about George was very consoling.· I didn't find his words very consoling.· He nodded and put a consoling arm around her shoulders.
a happier feeling after you have been upset, worried, etc · Emily goes to a women's group for comfort and emotional support.bring/give comfort · Your letter brought me great comfort after John died.· Her faith gave her comfort during a very difficult time.take/draw comfort from · The family has taken some comfort from the fact that her condition has stabilized.
the feeling you have when something worrying or frightening has ended or has not happened: · When the plane finally landed, we all felt a tremendous sense of relief.· It was a great relief to know that the children were safe.that's a relief!/what a relief!: · What a relief! We were so worried about you.· What a relief to finally get away from the office.to your relief (=making you feel relief): · To our relief, the deal went through without any problems.heave/breathe a sigh of relief (=breathe loudly to show your relief): · She breathed a sign of relief when he finally answered the phone.
a thought or fact that makes you feel less disappointed or sad, for example when someone has died or when you have just heard some disappointing news: · It was some consolation to know that he could take the exam again.· My one consolation is that she died peacefully.take (some) consolation: · It was difficult to say goodbye, but I took some consolation from the fact that I would see her again at the end of the year.
to make somebody feel less sad to make someone feel happier when they are disappointed or sad about something: · Is there anything we can do to cheer you up?· She failed her test, so I'm taking her out to cheer her up.
to make someone feel less upset by being kind to them and telling them not to worry: · Bill stroked her hair gently, trying to comfort her.· We did our best to comfort him, but he was obviously very upset.
spoken say this to tell someone to stop feeling disappointed or sad and try to be more cheerful: · Cheer up, Phil! It's only a game, and you can't win every time.· Cheer up! It's not the end of the world.
spoken say this to make someone feel calmer or make them stop crying, when they are very upset and worried about something: · It's all right, honey, I'm here now.
COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES There was only one crumb of comfort – Alex hadn’t said anything to Jeff. Investors can take comfort from the fact that the World Bank is underwriting the shares.
There was only one crumb of comfort – Alex hadn’t said anything to Jeff. Investors can take comfort from the fact that the World Bank is underwriting the shares.· ‘People might not have noticed we’re late.’ ‘That’s a comforting thought.’
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSNOUN· They are silly songs that my husband sings to comfort our child, but I hate them and I hate him.· Mrs Bates was being comforted by her three children Matthew, 20, Jonathan 18, and Becky, 12 yesterday.· Be sensitive to the particular patterns of sensations that comfort your child.
PHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES
- That car that came around the corner was just a little too close for comfort.
- At times, the similarities are too close for comfort, edging towards the derivative.
- But our last memory was of a nightingale pair, singing in competition in territories perhaps too close for comfort.
- Cross-addictions may be hotly denied because the subject matter may for some be too close for comfort.
- In a wave trough I caught a glimpse of a coral head to port: a little too close for comfort.
- Lightning dipped and veered in a manner which was far too close for comfort.
- Richard, and you quite see why, finds economy airline seats too close for comfort.
- The movement brought him too close for comfort.
- I enjoyed this comparative freedom and spent a lot of time pacing around the cell.
- The comparative freedom that the close presence of grandparents afforded wives contributed significantly to the high standard of farming seen.
- Ana seemed to find pleasure in simply listening, though.
- But we did find comfort in knowing the food was there.
- Dorothy Wordsworth found fulfilment in ways that elude precise analysis.
- He glanced at Rock Hardy, finding comfort in the familiar face. 5.03 already!
- I could only hope to be happy, and find comfort in the hope, as people do, wherever they are.
- They learned to tolerate loneliness, and find comfort in people, fantasies or activities outside the family.
- They tried to find comfort in knowing they had done their best.
WORD FAMILYnouncomfortdiscomfortcomforteradjectivecomfortable ≠ uncomfortablecomfortingadverbcomfortably ≠ uncomfortablycomfortinglyverbcomfort
to make someone feel less worried, unhappy, or upset, for example by saying kind things to them or touching them: Within hours of the news, Helen arrived to comfort her heartbroken friend. He longed to take her in his arms and comfort her. Mr Aston’s father was last night being comforted by relatives.comfort yourself She comforted herself with the thought that it would soon be spring.