word1 nounword2 verb
wordword1 /wɜːd $ wɜːrd/ ●●● S1 W1 noun 
WORD ORIGINword1
Origin:
Old EnglishEXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
- 'Casa' is the Italian word for 'house'.
- Are there any words in the passage that you don't understand?
- I don't know all the words to the song.
- In 500 words or less, write down why you want the scholarship.
- Is 'lunchtime' one word or two?
- Look up any words you don't know in a dictionary.
- On the word "go" I want you to start running.
- The word 'origami' comes from Japanese.
- What's another word for 'way out'?
- However, he appreciated the cathartic nature of expressing himself through the written word.
- In fact different groups of people see the world in different ways and develop words for their concepts.
- It is obvious that Matson is a poet, if only for her precise word choice.
- It seems only fair to allow Wordsworth the last word.
- It was too calculated a word to describe what had happened between them.
- On 4 May it was played through an Auxetophone to the diners so they could all hear his words.
- The word was before them, the fire ran through the brushwood.
THESAURUS
a single group of letters that are used together with a particular meaning: · ‘Casa’ is the Italian word for ‘house’.· I looked up the word in a dictionary.
a word that you use for a particular thing, place, organization etc: · Iberia is the ancient name for the Spanish Peninsula.· What’s the name of that type of dog?
a word or group of words that is used in a specific subject or area of language: · The medical term for losing your hair is ‘alopecia’.· People use the term ‘carbon footprint’ to talk about man’s polluting effect on the environment.
a group of words that have a particular meaning when used together, or which someone uses on a particular occasion: · We don’t really have a phrase for ‘bon appétit’ in English.· Politicians keep using the phrase ‘family values’.· an Italian phrase book
a fixed phrase which is used in a language and has a particular meaning: · He uses a lot of obscure expressions that I don’t really understand.· What does the expression ‘wage slavery’ mean?
a word or group of words that people in a particular type of work or activity have started using a lot because they think it is important: · E-learning is the buzzword in educational publishing at the moment.· For anthropologists, ethnodiversity has been a buzzword for quite a while.
a group of words that has a special meaning which you cannot guess from the meanings of each separate word: · ‘Full of beans’ is an idiom which means feeling lively and energetic.
a group of words that is used so often that it seems rather boring, annoying, or silly: · It’s a bit of a cliché, but good communication skills are the key to success.· the old movie cliché ‘we can’t go on meeting like this’
very informal words used especially by a particular group of people such as young people, criminals, or soldiers: · Grass is slang for marijuana.· prison slang· army slang
words and phrases used in a particular profession or by a particular group of people, which are difficult for other people to understand – often used to show disapproval: · The instructions were full of technical jargon.· complicated legal jargon
Longman Language Activatora word or group of words · Are there any words in the passage that you don't understand?· Look up any words you don't know in a dictionary.· Is 'lunchtime' one word or two?· The word 'origami' comes from Japanese.word for something (=word that means something) · 'Casa' is the Italian word for 'house'.· What's another word for 'way out'?
a combination of two or more words that has a particular meaning: · There are some useful words and phrases at the end of each chapter in the Student's Book.· Are you familiar with the phrase "the old boy network'?use a phrase: · I was criticized for using the phrase 'gay lifestyles'.· His campaign is, to use one of his favourite phrases, 'as dead as Elvis'.in somebody's phrase (=according to a phrase which someone used): · The battle of El Alamein was, in Churchill's phrase, "the end of the beginning'.coin a phrase (=invent a phrase): · Who first coined the phrase "Iron Curtain'?turn of phrase (=a particular phrase or word that someone uses): · The head of the bank described the salary cuts as 'peanuts', a turn of phrase which angered many bank workers.
a group of words that is used to talk about or say a particular thing: · "It'll be alright in the end' -- that was my mother's favourite expression.· 'Shadow-boxing'? I've never heard that expression before!use an expression: · I don't normally use that expression myself, but I've heard other people use it sometimes.· He said he didn't care -- well actually he used a rude expression that I can't repeat!
a word or group of words that are used in a technical or scientific subject and have an exact meaning in that subject: · Mr Hicks used the term 'neighbourhood schools' for what in effect were segregated black schools.· It's very difficult to give a definition of a term like 'cyberspace'.medical/legal/scientific etc term (for something): · The medical term for losing your hair is 'alopecia'.
a group of words that are used together and have a special meaning that you cannot guess from the meanings of each separate word: · 'Full of beans' is an idiom which means lively and energetic.· In Hollywood, white stars are adopting black idioms, dress styles and manners.
a group of words that are used to describe someone or something in an unusual or poetic way: · We describe our genes as 'selfish' or 'ruthless', but of course this is only a figure of speech.· When I said we spent the night together, it was just a figure of speech. I didn't sleep with her.
a word or phrase that people use in a particular situation, because it describes what is important in that situation: · Variety will be the catchword at the new venue, with acts ranging from stand-up comedy to poetry readings.· After World War II, the catchword for a newly health-conscious society was 'protein'.
a sentence or part of a sentence a group of words that begins with a capital letter, ends with a full stop, and includes a verb: · Write a complete sentence for each answer.· Try to write using short, punchy sentences.· Describe your best friend in a single sentence.· The opening sentence of the book defines the concept of Tai-Chi-Chuan.
a group of words that has a subject and a verb and that is part of a sentence: main clause (=the clause that describes the main action): · We will go to the theatre tonight [main clause] if we can get tickets [subordinate clause].subordinate clause/dependent clause (=a clause that is not the main clause): · In the sentence "Can you tell me what time it is?" 'Can you tell me' is the main clause, and 'what time it is' is a subordinate clause.
a small group of words which together form a single unit in a sentence - used in technical contexts: · The phrase 'a big black dog' is the subject of the sentence.noun/adverb/verb etc phrase: · "A bottle of whisky' is a noun phrase, and "really rather foolishly' is an adverb phrase.
a phrase or sentence that is well-known or often used a short sentence that contains advice, or says what is usually true in a particular situation. Sayings have usually been used for a long time: · 'You're only as old as you feel' -- that's one of my favourite sayings.old/famous/well-known saying: · The more often you play the flute, the better you'll get. Remember the old saying, practice makes perfect.· How many times have we heard the famous saying, 'Physician heal thyself'?as the saying goes (=according to a saying): · What followed, as the saying goes, shook the world.· Like father, like son, as the saying goes -- by the time Tim was eight, he was already a budding entrepreneur.
a well-known saying that gives advice or says something about human life, especially using words that represent a wider meaning: · Do you remember this old proverb: 'When poverty comes in the door, love flies out of the window'?Chinese/Arabic/French etc proverb: · An Irish proverb is relevant here -- 'You've got to do your own growing, no matter how tall your grandfather is.'cite/quote a proverb: · In reply, he quoted a Sanskrit proverb: 'Forgiveness is the ornament of the brave'.
a word or phrase from one special area of knowledge that people suddenly start using a lot, especially because they think it means something important: · The big Internet buzzword at the moment is 'push technology'.· Customer-friendliness was the buzzword in British business circles.· 'Going snap' on a decision was the latest buzzword in our office.
a phrase that is used so often that it seems boring, annoying, or silly: · It's a cliché, I know, but the game isn't over till the final whistle blows.old/tired cliché: · At the risk of repeating an old cliché, what doesn't kill you makes you stronger.become a cliché: · It's become a cliché to say that presidential candidates are being marketed like bars of soap or boxes of cereal.
a phrase that is so clearly true that it has no useful meaning and is therefore annoying, especially because the person using it seems insincere and unsympathetic: · The management tried to satisfy staff with some platitudes about the need to make sacrifices for the benefit of the company.empty platitude (=one that is meaningless): · The marriage counsellor could only offer us a string of empty platitudes.mouth/spout platitudes: · Mr Gringold droned on, mouthing the usual platitudes about motivation and self-reliance.
a sentence or phrase from a book, play, poem etc that is used to explain or show something: · If you do use quotations in your essay, select them carefully.· a dictionary of theatrical quotationsquotation from: · The book begins with a quotation from The Book of Common Prayer.attribute a quotation to somebody (=say that they are the first person to say it): · The quotation is attributed to Chu Hsi, an ancient Chinese philosopher.
a short phrase that is easy to remember, especially one that is used by advertisers, politicians, or entertainers: · Bloomingdale's has as its slogan 'Like no other store in the world'.· Young men risked their lives to daub buildings with anti-government slogans. slogan of: · 'Liberte, egalite, fraternite' was the slogan of the French Revolution.advertising/marketing/campaign slogan: · They've come up with a new advertising slogan for the product.
a short, well-known phrase used regularly by an entertainer or other public figure: · The public soon learned to associate the catchphrase 'Ooh, you are awful' with the inimitable Dick Emery.· His catchphrases like'What a peach of a shot' and 'That's a dream of a pass' are now part of tennis language.
a word or phrase that expresses a person or organization's aims or beliefs: · The school's motto was 'Work hard and play hard'.· "All my life," said Sir Humphrey, "my motto has been 'aim high'."family motto: · The Mortimer family motto is inscribed above the door -- 'Humilitas'.
all the words someone knows or uses someone's vocabulary is all the words that they know or use: · These stories are written for students with a vocabulary of about 2000 words.· Reading is a good way to increase your vocabulary.· a vocabulary test· How big is the average 4-year-old's vocabulary?
all the technical words or expressions that are used in connection with a particular subject: · One of the hardest things when studying linguistics is learning all the right terminology.legal/medical/scientific etc terminology: · In legal terminology, a widow is the 'relict' of her late husband.· Kelly wants to be a nurse, and is taking a medical terminology class at night.
what you say when you are advising someone spoken · You should go to the doctor with that cough.· I think you should stay here until you've sobered up.· That new restaurant's great -- you really ought to try it.· Do you know what you ought to do? You ought to tell her exactly what you think of her.
spoken say this when you are giving someone friendly advice: · I wouldn't do that if I were you.· Here's your money -- if I were you I'd put it in the bank right now.
spoken say this when you are advising someone how to do something in a better way: · The ferry takes about eight hours! You'd be better off going by plane.· I think you'd be better off using a knife rather than scissors for that job.
spoken say this when you think that someone should do something because you know from your own experience how unpleasant or difficult something can be: · Take my advice - don't go into teaching unless you're absolutely committed.· Divorces are a nightmare. Take my advice and stay single.
spoken say this when you are telling someone that they should trust the advice you are giving them because it is based on your personal experience: · Take it from me, you'll regret it if you waste your time at school.· Love affairs with colleagues never work out -- take it from me.
especially written use this when you are strongly advising someone to do something, especially because they may have trouble if they do not do it: · Before your interview you'd be well advised to have another look at what you put on the application form.· There are parts of Detroit you'd be well advised to avoid.
formal use this when you are strongly advising someone not to do something because it would be dangerous or stupid: · On no account should you attempt this exercise if you're pregnant.not on any account: · You shouldn't sign the contract unless you are sure you understand it. Not on any account.
spoken say this when you do not want someone to make a mistake, for example by forgetting to do something or losing something: · Make sure that you take your passport.· Make sure you lock all the doors and windows at night.
spoken say this when you are telling someone what you think the best way of dealing with a particular situation is, based on your own experience: · The best thing is to just ignore her. She'll soon take the hint.
spoken say this especially when you are warning someone to be careful about something: · A word of advice: when you're at the interview don't mention that you used to work in a bar.
from the beginning · Tell me everything that happened, from the beginning.· Their marriage has been in trouble from the start.right from the beginning/start (=from the very earliest time) · Right from the start I could tell she didn't like me.· Mark felt very comfortable in his new job, right from the beginning.from start to finish (=from the beginning to the end) · This project has been a complete nightmare from start to finish.
informal from the beginning - used especially when something has happened or existed continuously since the beginning: · Eva's been very supportive from the word go.· The Elfin Theatre Company was doomed to failure from the word go.
if something has been the situation or has been someone's purpose since or from day one , it has clearly been the situation or their purpose ever since the beginning: · From day one I knew we'd have a strong team this year.· We've opposed this amendment since day one and we'd be stupid to change our minds now.
from the time when a continuing activity or process began: · The new group had, from the outset, campaigned for an improvement in childcare provision.· I was determined from the outset to make the most of going to university.
to believe that something is true to be sure that something is true or that someone is telling the truth: · Did the police believe his story?· I told them I didn't do it, but no one believed me.· You shouldn't believe everything you read in the papers.believe (that): · People used to believe that the sun moved around the earth.believe it or not (=it may be hard to believe this): · I asked them for a $10,000 loan, and believe it or not they said yes.firmly/strongly believe: · I firmly believe that we are responsible for what happens to us in our lives.
to believe something because someone has persuaded you to believe it: · I finally accepted the fact that I would die if I didn't stop smoking.· She succeeded in persuading the jury to accept her version of the events.accept that: · She'll never accept that her husband has been unfaithful.
to believe what someone tells you even though you have no proof of it: · When he told me he'd been in the army, I took his word for it.· "Do you want to check for yourself?" "No, I'll take your word for it."
to believe what someone says even though you think they might not be telling the truth: · Something didn't seem quite right, but I decided to give him the benefit of the doubt.· She claimed she wasn't trying to commit suicide, and doctors gave her the benefit of the doubt.
to accept that what someone tells you is true without asking for any proof, because you have decided to trust them: · I'm afraid I can't let you see the letter, so you'll just have to take what I'm saying on trust.· He said he'd never been in trouble before, which I was content to take on trust.
to believe what someone says or what you read, without thinking that it may have another meaning: · Netta accepted Amelia's explanation at face value and didn't ask any more questions.· The letter, if we take it at face value, suggests that Richard is quite happy in his job.
informal to believe a reason or explanation, especially one that is not very likely to be true - use this especially in negatives and questions: · We could tell him it was an accident, but he'd never buy it.· "He said he was with friends last night." "Are you going to buy that?"
an exact description/translation/copy completely correct because all the details are true: · The witness tried to give an accurate description of what she had seen.· accurate financial forecasts
an exact copy, model etc of something is like it in every possible way: · an exact replica of a 900-year-old Buddhist shrine· I can't remember her exact words, but this is the gist of what she said.exact likeness (=use this about a painting or drawing of someone that looks very much like that person): · It's not an exact likeness, but it's recognisable as my father.exact same spoken: · She's wearing the exact same dress I bought last week!
a literal translation gives the exact meaning of a word, or each word in a sentence, instead of translating the word or whole sentence in a natural way: · The literal meaning of the Yiddish word 'mensch' is 'person'. · It's rare to use a literal translation of a film title when it is sold abroad.
if you repeat, copy, or translate something word for word , you use the exact words that are in it: · He asked me to repeat word for word the instructions he'd just given me.· The footnote gave a word for word translation of the quotation.
a faithful copy of something is as close as possible to the original: · His model cars are faithful copies of the originals.· This is a faithful interpretation of Shakespeare's original text.· a faithful reconstruction of an Anglo-Saxon village
exact and correct according to accepted rules or an accepted system: · Dates must be listed in strict chronological order.· Under a strict interpretation of the rules, she would be suspended.· In the strictest sense of the word, all popular fiction is 'romantic'.
formal repeating the exact words that were spoken or written: · The government released a verbatim transcript of the pilot's last words.· He lifted passages almost verbatim from an earlier essay he had written.
not good at expressing your ideas clearly unable to express what you are feeling or thinking because you cannot think of the right, or best, words to use: · Maisie had always thought of herself as being uneducated and inarticulate, and was surprised that anyone should ask her opinion.· Footballers are famous for being inarticulate when they are interviewed on TV, and Danny Lord was no exception.
to be unable to express yourself clearly or properly, especially because you are nervous, upset, or embarrassed: · Jenna looked around the room, completely at a loss.· Howard was so shocked that he was lost for words.be at a loss for words: · Mrs Miller seemed at a loss for words. She sank down into a chair and took off her hat.be at a loss to explain: · I was at a loss to explain my sudden fit of rage.
to speak honestly to be honest in what you say: · He wouldn't believe that I was telling the truth.· When you testify in court, you have to swear to tell the truth.tell somebody the truth: · Tell me the truth - does this dress make me look fat?
spoken say this before giving your honest opinion, especially when your opinion may sound unkind or surprising: · To be honest, I don't really like babies.· I wish I'd never met him, to be quite honest.· To be honest with you, I never expected him to get the job.· In all honesty, I've got no idea where she's living now.
spoken you say to be frank or frankly before giving your honest opinion, especially when your opinion may sound unkind or shocking : · To be frank, George isn't very good at the job.· Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn.· Well, frankly, I think this proves that there are a lot of people making laws in this country who don't really know what they're doing.
to be honest with someone, especially when they have asked you to give them the correct story, reason etc: · I promise I won't get angry. Just level with me and tell me what happened.· I'm going to level with you - some of the other managers don't think you're ready for a promotion.
to be honest and give someone all the facts about a situation, even if they are unpleasant: · I told her straight that she was wrong. · The people who report to me have to be willing to tell it like it is.
to say exactly what you think even if it offends people: · She believes in speaking her mind, which makes her very unpopular.· Larry isn't afraid to speak his mind, even in front of the boss.
to say what you think in a way that you know might offend other people: · Helmut didn't mince any words in his criticism of the department.
to say exactly what you think about someone or something, especially in a situation where other people would be more polite: · Why not call a spade a spade and say that she's incompetent, if that's what you're thinking.
to speak honestly about someone or something, especially when you are criticizing them, without thinking about their feelings: · Rollins pulled no punches in his memoir, especially when writing about the political system.
to be the most basic meaning of a statement you say basically or essentially as a way of introducing the general meaning of a longer or more complicated statement: · I won't read it all to you, but basically they want us to leave the house.· Basically, the author is in favour of disarmament but with a few reservations.· This is essentially the same argument that Arnold used in "Culture and Anarchy".
if a long statement, argument, discussion etc boils down to or comes down to a simple fact, that is its simplest and most important meaning: · The argument boiled down to him saying I did and me saying I didn't.· That's what it boils down to then: he's not prepared to help us.· They make a variety of points, but what their complaints come down to is, no one seems to care.
if a statement amounts to something, that is what it means or that is the effect it has, especially if this is something that the person making the statement was deliberately trying to avoid: · The fact that he said he was sorry after the accident amounts to a confession of guilt.· Their request for better working conditions amounted to a criticism of the management.
you say in other words when you are going to make clear the meaning of something you have just said, using simpler words: · He prides himself on his powers of persuasion -- or, in other words, his salesmanship.· The books and materials are kept on closed access, in other words available only to the library staff.
you say that someone said something to that effect , when you are giving the general meaning of what they said, even if you do not use the same words: · I thought he was wrong and I said something to that effect at dinner.words to that effect: · James said he was unhappy in his work or words to that effect.
to praise someone or something to say that you admire someone or approve of something good that they have done: · Fire chiefs praised a 10-year-old girl who saved her brother's life yesterday.praise somebody for something: · Local people were praised for their calm response to the crisis.highly praised: · His column was a regular and highly praised feature of the newspaper.
to tell someone that you are pleased or impressed because they have achieved something special: · I would like to congratulate all the prizewinners.congratulate somebody on (doing) something: · The President congratulated him on winning the title.· I wrote a letter congratulating him on his appointment.congratulate somebody for (doing) something: · The committee is to be congratulated for presenting its findings in such an informative manner.
to tell someone that you like the way they look or that you are pleased with something that they have done: · She blushed when men complimented her.compliment somebody on something: · Everyone complimented me on my new hairstyle.
to say good or approving things about a person or their achievements: · Peter is always very complimentary about your work.· She was actually highly complimentary about you.
if you say good things about someone, you praise their abilities, usually in their work: · People are saying really good things about you -- that you are well-trained, are thorough, conscientious...
to praise someone or their work because you admire them: · I'm so pleased to meet you -- my wife has always spoken very highly of you.· All her former clients speak highly of her legal skills.
to praise someone publicly, especially to show respect for them and what they have achieved: · John Motum, presenting the trophy, paid tribute to the players and coaches.· Friends of the actor paid tribute to his talent and expressed shock as news of his death became public.
if someone puts in a good word for you with someone in a position of authority, they praise you to them, especially in order to help you to get a job or to avoid punishment: · The producers told me later that I got the job because Paul put in a good word for me.put in a good word for somebody with somebody: · Can you put in a good word for me with your colleagues on the council?
to do what you promised to do · She was crying because she thought he had not kept his promise.· Respect your teenager's privacy. If you promise not to tell her father, keep your word.keep your promise/word to do something · The government has kept its promise to cut taxes, but this has meant cuts in services, too.
to do or provide what you promised, especially in politics or business when people are uncertain whether you can do this: · Election candidates frequently promise a lot more than they can deliver.· The Prime Minister's economic development strategy has not delivered the promised benefits.deliver on a promise: · Yet again the management has failed to deliver on its promise to provide extra staff training.deliver the goods (=do or provide what you have promised): · Do you think she will be able to deliver the goods?
British /fulfill American formal to do what you have promised to do or what you must do, especially in politics or business: fulfil a pledge/promise/commitment: · Eisenhower finally fulfilled his campaign pledge to end the war in Korea.· In the ROTC program, students fulfill a service commitment after college, in return for a scholarship from the Army or Navy.fulfil a duty/mission: · The general did not have confidence that the Fourth Fleet would be able to fulfil its mission.
to faithfully keep an earlier promise or agreement although there may now be reasons for not keeping it: · Despite his family's opposition, Jake stood by his promise to marry her.· How could she stick to the agreement now that everything had changed so drastically?· I stand by what I said during the campaign.
use this when you are impressed with someone for doing what they promised to do: · The President promised to lower income taxes, and he's been as good as his word.
to do what you promised to do as part of an agreement in which both sides promised to do something: · The strike has ended. The employers must now keep their side of the bargain and increase overtime pay.
to make sure that someone does what they have promised to do: · Parents and teachers need to agree on goals for students, and hold them to it.· Government officials need to be held to their promises.
to promise something to tell someone that you will definitely do something that they want you to do or expect you to do: · "I can't take you to the beach today, after all." "But you promised!"promise (that): · Hurry up, we promised we wouldn't be late this time.· Richardson apologized and promised that appropriate action would be taken to fix the problem.promise to do something: · The government had promised to investigate the cause of the accident.promise somebody (that): · I promised the kids I'd take them to a movie.promise somebody something (=promise to give someone something): · I promised Jamie a ride to school this morning.
to tell someone that something will definitely happen or is definitely true, so that they are less worried or more confident: assure somebody (that): · The doctor assured me that I wouldn't feel any pain.· The airline has assured travellers there will be no further delays.
to promise someone very seriously and sincerely that you will do something: · Campus officials had given her their word. There was to be a raise in salary each year.give sb your word (that): · I've given him my word that we'll take care of the house like it was ours.give somebody your word of honour/honor: · He had given her his word of honor that he would respect her wishes.
to make a very serious promise, especially publicly or in a law court: swear (that): · During the ceremony you swear that you will serve the country loyally.swear to somebody (that): · I swore to myself that I'd never do anything like it again.swear to do something: · Do you swear to tell the truth?swear allegiance (=promise to be loyal to a country): · New citizens are asked to swear allegiance during the citizenship ceremony.
to firmly promise something, especially to yourself - used especially in literature: vow to do something: · Ben vowed to avenge his mother's death.vow (that): · Daley vowed that the Police Department would be reformed.
to promise that something will happen or be provided, because you are going to make sure of this: · The king had guaranteed our safety on our journey.guarantee (that): · We guarantee that you won't lose your jobs when the company is taken over.· I can't guarantee the plan will work, but I'll give it a try.guarantee somebody something (=guarantee to give someone something): · The first emigrants to Canada were guaranteed 200 acres of land each.
to promise to do something that will take a long time or involve a lot of effort: · Young people still need to learn how to commit to a job and have goals for themselves.commit to to do something: · The organization needs volunteers who can commit to work four hours a week.
to publicly or officially promise to give help, support, or money to an organization, group, or person: pledge to do something: · Many rock stars have pledged to support the campaign to save the rainforests.pledge something to somebody: · The government has pledged £500,000 worth of aid to the drought- stricken area.pledge support/money/help etc: · Britain has pledged £1.3 million to the UN for refugee work.· The U.S. has pledged aid to the country.pledge allegiance (=promise to be loyal to a country): · Should new citizens of Canada pledge allegiance to the queen of Great Britain?
what you say when you promise something · "Promise me you'll write to me." "I promise."I promise (that) · I won't go. I promise I won't go.
say this when you want to make a very serious and sincere promise: · You won't regret this - I give you my word.I give you my word/you have my word (that): · I give you my word that I'll do everything I can.· Do I have your word, Mr Bigelow, that this problem will be corrected?
say this when you are making a promise to someone you know well - used especially by children: · "Do you promise?" "Cross my heart."
say this when you are making a very firm promise, that you will never break. I swear is used in court: · I swear that the evidence I give will be the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.
exactly like someone or something · They were both wearing the same shoes.· We've opened up stores in the UK and we hope to do the same in the rest of Europe.· "We always get up late on Saturdays." "It's the same in our house."look/sound/taste etc the same · The houses on the street all look the same.just the same/exactly the same (=not different in any way) · I tried three different types of wine, but they all tasted exactly the same to me.all the same · Take whichever you like - they're all the same.the same ... as · They were doing the same jobs as the men, but being paid less.
if someone or something is just like or exactly like someone or something else, there is very little difference between them: · You're just like my teacher.· There are insects that look exactly like green leaves.· This song sounds exactly like that one by The Beatles.be just/exactly like doing something: · We had often talked about emigrating to Australia. Suzie came from Melbourne, so it would be just like going home for her.
identical things are exactly the same in every way: · To me the two patterns looked identical.identical to: · The picture is identical to the one in the museum of Modern Art in New York.identical in size/colour/shape etc: · The tablets were identical in size, shape, and colour.
if you can't tell the difference between two people or things, or if you can't tell them apart , they look, sound, or seem exactly the same to you: · Emma and Louise sound so alike on the phone, I can't tell the difference.· They are identical twins and it's impossible to tell them apart.· These rap bands all sound the same to me -- I can't tell them apart.can't tell the difference between: · Don't let her help you with the gardening -- she can't tell the difference between a weed and a strawberry plant!
two people or things that are indistinguishable are so similar that it is impossible to know which is which or to see any differences between them: · In the storm the sky and sea were indistinguishable.· It was claimed that Russian and American defence policies were indistinguishable.indistinguishable from: · He tasted the cheaper wine and found it indistinguishable from a superior one.
use this especially when you expect something or someone to be different from another thing or person, but in fact they are the same: · People often think that movie stars are special in some way, but really they're no different from anybody else.· Life on the island is no different from life on the mainland.
if one thing matches another or if two things match , they look the same or have the same qualities or characteristics: · You can't go out wearing socks that don't match.· Their performance in government didn't quite match their election promises.
if you repeat or copy something word for word , you do it using exactly the same words: · Janice repeated word for word what Harold had told her.· It appears that someone has copied your essay word for word.
not saying anything especially written not speaking: · Phil was silent for a moment as he thought about his reply.remain silent: · I wanted to say 'please don't go', but instead I remained silent, and she left.fall silent (=become silent): · The woman fell silent, though she kept darting angry glances at Jessica.
to be unable to say anything because you are very surprised or because you are not prepared for the situation that has suddenly happened: · No matter what happens he never seems lost for words.· She stared at his letter, clearly at a loss for words.
to be suddenly unable to say anything because you are extremely surprised or shocked and cannot believe what has happened: · Amy was struck dumb. Was it possible that her own son had deceived her?be struck dumb with: · When he arrived at the scene of the disaster, he was struck dumb with horror and amazement.
informal to suddenly become unwilling to talk: · He always clams up when I ask him about his job -- do you think he's doing something illegal?· The police took her in for questioning, but she clammed up when they asked about her boyfriend.
unable to say anything because you are very angry, surprised, or upset: · Anna was speechless. She had never seen such luxury before.speechless with: · Laura stared at him, absolutely speechless with rage.leave/render somebody speechless (=make someone speechless): · His words dented her pride and left her speechless.
unable or unwilling to say anything because you are nervous or embarrassed: · She became tongue-tied when she looked at the handsome man sitting beside her.· Nervousness affects people in different ways. While some people become tongue-tied, others cannot stop talking.
spoken say this when someone gives you an unexpected present, or does something bad or shocking, and you cannot express how happy, angry etc you feel: · You're so kind! I don't know what to say.· Well, I don't know what to say. It's absolutely disgraceful!
spoken say this when you are so shocked or angry that you cannot think of anything to say to express how you feel: · Just look at this mess. Look at it. It's...Words fail me!
to not say anything even though you want very much to say what you think: · I had to bite my tongue to stop myself telling Neil exactly what I thought of his stupid plan.· She's so temperamental that even if you disagree with her it's better to bite your tongue and say nothing.
to talk to someone about a problem, plan, or serious subject · I think we need to talk.talk about · If you're having trouble at school, let's sit down and talk about it.talk to · Gerry wants to talk to his girlfriend before he makes a decision.talk with American · It's important to talk with your kids about drugs, alcohol, and sex.
if people discuss a subject or situation, they exchange ideas and opinions about it, so it is easier to make a decision or make plans: · The whole family got together to discuss funeral arrangements.· We never discuss our financial difficulties in front of the children.discuss what/how/where etc: · We need to discuss what kind of food we want at the party.discuss something with somebody: · Don't make any plans yet - I want to discuss this with Jamie first.
also speak with American to talk to someone about something serious or official: · Maybe it's time for you to speak to a lawyer.· The woman had come all the way from Denver to speak with the President.speak to about: · I intend to speak to the manager about the way I have been treated.· Have you spoken with Michael about the scheduling conflict?
to talk to someone seriously about something you have planned to discuss, especially about a problem or future plans: · Don and I had a long talk, and I think we understand each other better now.have a talk about: · I think it's time we had a talk about your future here in the company.have a talk with: · If this behavior continues, I'm going to have to have a little talk with her.· Someone should have a serious talk with Lucy about the amount of alcohol she drinks.
to talk to someone for a period of time about a serious subject: · The two leaders had a brief conversation yesterday.have a conversation with: · I've had conversations with several employers who say there are not enough qualified people to fill the jobs they have.have a conversation about: · We need to have a conversation with our lawyers about the will.
to talk to someone about all the details of a serious problem or difficult situation, in order to understand it better: talk something over: · If you're worried about your work, come and see me and we'll talk it over.talk over something: · I took him out to dinner so we could talk over the problem.talk something over with somebody: · It's often useful to talk things over with a trained counsellor.
to talk to someone quickly, and usually privately, about something serious: · His attitude got so bad his manager was forced to have a word with him.· Jim had a word with Mary, and she took the children out of the room.I'd like (to have) a word with you: · I'd like a word with you in private.
to have a private conversation in which two people both say honestly and sincerely what they feel about something personal: · Don't go in there right now - I think Dean and Carlo are having a heart-to-heart.have a heart-to-heart talk/a heart-to-heart with: · If you think your boss doesn't like you, have a heart-to-heart talk with her.
if two or more people who do the same work talk shop , they have a conversation about their work on a social occasion: · I don't want to go out to dinner with him and his lawyer friends - all they ever do is talk shop.
American informal to talk seriously and honestly about matters that need to be agreed, especially business matters: · OK, enough joking around - let's talk turkey.
to deliberately not tell someone a secret · I'm leaving next month to start another job, but don't tell anyone just yet.· She knew she had cancer, but she didn't tell anyone.
to not tell other people about something or not let them find out about it: · He said it was vital to keep Operation Beehive secret.· It was impossible for the affair to be kept secret.keep sth (a) secret from: · At first I tried to keep my illness a secret from my wife.
to not tell anyone anything at all about something, because it is very important that no one knows about it: · It's supposed to be a big surprise, so don't breathe a word.· Don't worry, I won't tell a soul about any of this.
to not tell anyone about something that you know is happening, especially something that other people would disapprove of because it is slightly illegal or unfair: keep quiet about: · I wish I'd kept quiet about the money.· We'd better keep quiet about this for now.keep it quiet: · We can give you a 10% raise, but not the others -- so keep it quiet, won't you?
to not tell other people something that someone has told you, or something that you have found out about: · Don't tell Sam -- he's incapable of keeping anything to himself.· Branson knew who the killer was, but had kept it to himself for twenty years.
to deliberately not tell someone something that you know, especially because you are worried about telling them, or because it might upset them: · If a patient is dying, I don't think doctors have a right to keep it from them.· I've tried to ask her what's worrying her, but she says it's nothing. I'm sure she's keeping something from me.
to not tell someone certain facts about something when telling them everything else about it: keep something back: · I got the feeling he was keeping something back.keep back something: · Although most of the facts were published the government kept back certain details that might prove embarrassing.keep something back from somebody/keep back something from somebody: · I must now confess something which I kept back from you earlier.
something that has been written or printed · There's some writing on the back of this photo, but I can't make out what it says.in writing · All bids must be submitted in writing to the above address.piece of writing · Below each picture was a short piece of writing in Arabic script.
writing, especially a small amount of writing: the words: · The words were very faint but I could make out the name 'Alex'.· She scrawled the words 'I love you' on my desk.
the written part of a book, newspaper etc, not including notes, pictures etc: · The front page had no text, just a photograph of the Princess and a huge headline.· You can cut and paste whole blocks of text very easily on screen.
a copy of a book which is written by hand or typed, often before it is printed: · The finished manuscript was sent to the publisher on 3 January.· We were shown some of the ancient manuscripts and rare books that are kept in the British Library.
a piece of writing written on, or cut into, the surface of a stone, coin etc: · We read the inscriptions on the graves, and wondered what each of those lives had been like.· It was an engraved silver plate bearing the inscription 'Made for His Majesty George III June 1737'.
rude, humorous, or political writing on the walls of buildings, trains etc: · The corridors are very dirty, and the walls are covered with graffiti.
a piece of writing. A paper document is usually an official or legal one. A document that you produce on a computer is something you type into a particular file: · Several secret documents went missing from the government's Information department.· Your birth certificate is an important document, which should be kept safe at all times.· Open a new document (=on a computer) and name it "resume".· You can attach any documents to an email and send them to friends or colleagues.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRYadjectives
The legislation had been ambiguously worded. I don’t believe a word of it (=I think it is completely untrue). Most observers were optimistic, yet some sounded a cautionary note. He chose his words carefully as he spoke. The judge gave his closing speech to the jury. She looked at me as if I had said a dirty word. I have no reason to doubt his word (=think that he is lying). Child abuse is an emotive subject. Delors claimed that the president had gone back on his word. As a politician, you need to be good with words (=skilful at using words). Dan put in a good word for you at the meeting. No one had a good word to say for her. He had harsh words (=severe criticism) for the Government. How do I know you’ll keep your word? We thanked the priest for his kind words. He seemed, for once, at a loss for words (=unable to think what to say). Russell spoke slowly, picking his words (=choosing what to say) very carefully. As a newspaper publisher he understood the power of the printed word (=words that are printed on paper). She was slurring her words as if she was drunk. I’ll never be unfaithful again. I give you my solemn word. It looks as if Nick will stick to his word this time. For once Anthony was stuck for words (=did not know what to say). Travis seemed absolutely stumped for words. He’s always trying to twist my words and make me look bad. Cantor nodded without uttering a word. If we had more information, it would be easier to venture a firm opinion. Roy ventured a tentative smile. He encouraged us with a few well-chosen words. You can always expect a few words of wisdom from Dave.COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSADJECTIVE
· Computer technology has brought many new words into our language.
(=the word that has the meaning you want)· He struggled to find the right word.
· Prosciutto is the Italian word for ham.
· She didn’t understand all the long words.
· a short word beginning with ‘d’ and ending with ‘g’
(=words that sound very important or serious)· It scares me, when you use big words like that.
· Can you think of a six-letter word meaning ‘difficult’?
· Someone had written a rude word on the back of his chair.
· He learned a few swear words on the playground.
(=a rude word)· You couldn’t say dirty words on television.
(=a very rude word)· The programme was full of four letter words.
(=one that people are not allowed to use)· This has now become a taboo word.
verbs· She said the words ‘my husband’ in a firm voice.
· Be very careful how you use the word ‘natural’.
· How do you pronounce this word?
· I always find that word hard to spell.
· It is not true that Eskimos have more than forty words for snow.
(=succeed in thinking of the right word to use)· She couldn’t find the words to explain how she felt.
(=try to think of words to use)· She hesitated, searching for words.
(=try to find it in a book)· I looked the word up in my dictionary.
COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES spoken (=used when advising someone what to do)· A word of advice: look at the small print in the contract very carefully.
The legislation had been ambiguously worded.· a mother’s words of approval
I don’t believe a word of it (=I think it is completely untrue). (=break your promise)· I’ve promised to do it and I never break my word.
Most observers were optimistic, yet some sounded a cautionary note. He chose his words carefully as he spoke. The judge gave his closing speech to the jury. (=a secret word you must know to get information, access etc)· UMBRA was the code word for top secret information.
· He tried to find some words of comfort that would help her.
(=of how many words or pages there are)· Your computer can do an automatic word count.
She looked at me as if I had said a dirty word. I have no reason to doubt his word (=think that he is lying). Child abuse is an emotive subject. (=the things you say to someone as encouragement)· The rest of the team shouted out words of encouragement.
(=the words someone actually said)· Try to remember his exact words – it’s very important.
(=the words that were used in a letter, speech, etc, with nothing changed)· What was the exact wording of the message?
(=it is impossible to describe something)· Words can’t express how much I miss her.
Delors claimed that the president had gone back on his word. (=what God says)· Missionaries traveled the world to tell people the word of God.
As a politician, you need to be good with words (=skilful at using words). Dan put in a good word for you at the meeting. No one had a good word to say for her. He had harsh words (=severe criticism) for the Government. (=a promise based on strong moral beliefs)· I give you my word of honour that you will not be harmed.
How do I know you’ll keep your word? (=an important or useful word)· Once you know the key words, you can make your own sentence.
We thanked the priest for his kind words. He seemed, for once, at a loss for words (=unable to think what to say). Russell spoke slowly, picking his words (=choosing what to say) very carefully.· She still had some words of praise for her ex-husband’s wit and charm.
As a newspaper publisher he understood the power of the printed word (=words that are printed on paper). (=one that you use for writing documents)· All word processing programs can check your spelling.
(=say what you are feeling or thinking)· She couldn’t put her feelings into words.
· She stopped abruptly, suddenly afraid to say the words aloud.
She was slurring her words as if she was drunk. I’ll never be unfaithful again. I give you my solemn word.· As news of his death spread, his army disintegrated.
· He has been spreading the word about ways to beat heart disease.
It looks as if Nick will stick to his word this time. For once Anthony was stuck for words (=did not know what to say). Travis seemed absolutely stumped for words. (=accept that what someone says is true) That’s the truth – take it from me.
That’s the truth – take it from me. He’s always trying to twist my words and make me look bad. Cantor nodded without uttering a word. If we had more information, it would be easier to venture a firm opinion. Roy ventured a tentative smile. (=used before telling someone to be careful about something)· A word of warning: don’t use too much glue.
He encouraged us with a few well-chosen words. You can always expect a few words of wisdom from Dave.· He surely could not have known that in spite of his final words.· These final words make clear that Zampano has jettisoned his one remaining tie to the human race: his sense of need.· Scarsone, however, got the final word, following up with a two-run homer to left.· One final word on buying components, keep your eyes peeled for products that are about to be discontinued.· But the irrepressible Saunders had the final word in the first half.· It is usual for an interviewer to show the candidate to the door with a few final words.· In Lord Jim there is no final word.
· In other words, they as pupils are not living fully in accordance with the official school rhetoric.· In other words, we are our own worst enemy.· In other words, they needed release from stress, and occupational therapy.· In other words, money supply growth is the main cause of inflation.· It was equally important to outshine everyone else around me - in other words, to achieve at the expense of others.· In other words the principal carer's preference is very strongly associated with where the sufferer is living one year after referral.· In other words, we learn to fulfill the demands of social living without personal resentment.· Life, in other words, had returned to normal.
· Tristan's arrival had prevented her and she would never have found the right words to accompany the gift in any case.· In fact, the morale of the crew was very high, if morale was the right word.· He found it difficult to pick the right words.· Well, morality is not the right word, but you know what I mean.· That is exactly the right word.· With just the right word, glance or smile, they played the game just like he did.· Smell wasn't the right word, nor was scent or perfume, nor yet aroma.· Mrs Cigans has listened to me on the bus and told me they are the right words.
· Stephen did not speak at all until he was seven and even now at 15 only answers questions with a single word.· Stephen didn't say a single word.· Any small dictionary will provide an ample fund for single word technique.· On observation it was clear that she had a marked language delay and could say only two or three clear single words.· And then there was this shout, this single word, this name.· Prefer the single word to the circumlocution. 4.· At the top was a faded blue-painted door with the single word, Studio, emblazoned upon it in plain black lettering.
· But the power of X-Clan is not the spoken word.· In cases of conduction aphasia, comprehension of spoken words and simple spoken sentences can be intact.· The spoken word, after all, only becomes history when it is recorded.· By the time the talking was over, the hearings had generated over nine million spoken words.· One item which is becoming more significant is powers of communication - both spoken and written word.· The spoken word must be heard clearly.· Large halls ideal for music can be too reverberant for the spoken word.
· If you want your hand written words of wisdom saved for posterity use quality paper and permanent ink.· But literacy and the written word do have a part to play.· The medium of transmission is human influence of various kinds, the spoken and written word, personal example and so on.· I was containing the threats in written words: I was taking control.· In addition to publications, there are written words for films, video tapes, sound recordings, and for information used in broadcasting.· It need not be confined to the written word - symbols such as the swastika, and other offensive images will suffice.· Rules have developed restricting the admissibility of evidence other than the written words of the contract.· Not only visual representation, but the written word, too, is not free of imperialism.
NOUN· The simplest form of electronic publishing is word processing with a typographic style of output; office publishing, if you will.· Two years later, Acme decides to obtain some new computers and a more powerful word processing program.· Training on word processing is useful to edit precedents, alter work outside office hours and to type confidential memos.· Meanwhile June Fox is spending the Dons she earns teaching word processing on the services of an osteopath.· A word processing program also has different types of memory.· This could include word processing, a database, case management and optical character recognition.· The major benefit of a word processing program is the flexibility it offers the user in amending documents.· Harwood Personnel is based on Q&A, the database and word processing system.
· This might well be the word processor that puts WordStar right back on the map in the word processor stakes.· Things get worse when you spend a lot of time with text-intensive programs such as word processors or spreadsheets.· Such pupils should be enabled to produce their written work on a word processor or concept keyboard.· I now e-mail my lessons and files to school, then simply open them into a word processor.· It is possible to specify the various style elements within the word processor file so making the document generation process almost automatic.· Could we find a better deal on word processors?· For some years I have been thinking of buying a word processor but have not yet taken the plunge.· So she pushed herself, sometimes writing longhand, sometimes on a word processor.
VERB· However, the draftsman should choose his words with care.· Your editor should ask for your opinions, why you chose certain words or decided to include or omit information.· He listens attentively as questions are translated, chooses words carefully and dismisses several questions as too sensitive.· Her carefully chosen words, and Hattie Crews's personal insight, moved the membership.· No. 12 Choose a particular key word.· He chose words from a special communications program and fashioned them into sentences.· I hope that I chose my words with some care.· Under her page boy haircut, her brow is knit; she tries to choose her words carefully.
· He sat with Sir Harold for a while, but they exchanged few words.· He was silent, and they walked on a few yards without exchanging a word.· She smiled, and exchanged a few words with him; then others came to say farewell.· Without exchanging a word we lengthened our strides, splashing through puddles, and made for the door.· The man was Magnus Olesen, and he and Muus did not exchange three words all afternoon.· We didn't exchange a word, or even a glance.· He and I exchanged sharp words when he informed me that the hamster would have to undergo the rabies test.
· Ask the students to tell you what they think of when they hear the word slide.· Desperately, she waited to hear the words.· No one knows when or how Harrison first heard word of the longitude prize.· She sat sadly, in her old camel coat and her feathered hat, hearing the words.· When I heard the word goons, it became no longer a matter of romance but a war of wills.· She wants to be off anyway - I've heard her screaming the words along the landing.· Everything was still until they all heard the hidden word in the picture.
· But he is a much younger man, going places, mark my words.· The parts of speech are syntactic as well as verbal because they mark the way words are used in sentences.· Livin' with a man, mark my words.· Yet it's Donne scholar Vivian Bearing who should mark the poet's words as she approaches death.· The railway will come at least as far as Witney, you mark my words.· Move the cursor to the name Edison and press Alt-F5 5 Enter to mark the word as a heading.· Just you mark my words, he says, the Worm Will Turn.· Press Alt-F5 5 Enter to mark the words as a heading. 11.
· What other kind of lexical sub-system might be accessed when one reads a word aloud?· If he survived the war and should ever read these words, I hope he may resume contact after nearly fifty years.· When Yoyo was done, she read over her words, and her eyes filled.· She asked the stewardess for a magazine and religiously read every word until they reached their first destination.· I can read the notes and words as I sing.· Encourage the child to read the words under the illustrations.· At that time, I could not see or read the words.
· Seized for a moment by the power of prophesy, Caledor spoke words that would ring down the ages.· Does she read as if she knows that each spoken word is represented by a clump of letters?· I knew she knew me, though she never spoke word, never, night-long.· But he could speak the words.· Salisbury, Butler and Macmillan spoke kind words.· Hal could do this when necessary, but most of his communication with his shipmates was by means of the spoken word.· Actions can speak louder than words How you act at work gives certain messages to all the people you work with.· After retrieving the chalice she sat at a table in her living room and began to speak the words.
· Then, to help it develop, we spread the word.· He spread the word to his fellow monks, who experimented with other ways to consume the berries.· The use of the new printing technology helped in spreading the word.· I welcomed the opportunity to spread the word and to broaden my knowledge about management approaches in the private sector.· Paitoni is determined to spread the good word.· Members of Boston's crew weren't the only ones who helped spread the word.· You will help spread the word, won't you?· Additionally, the Internet is helping spread the word about the Dvorak layout far wider and faster than was previously possible.
· At first Jane could hardly understand a word Mervyn said, but he was too good-humoured to be offended.· It became clear to them that she had understood their every word.· Neither of them understood the words but the music represented all that was fair and just.· The learner will come to understand the word.· I could understand every word she said.· She may not understand the words, but the feelings are unmistakable.· But in time, when you live with other eagles, you learn to understand them without words.· Again, your child may not understand all your words.
· It is not like grammar which defines how we should use words.· Weiser uses the example of words.· I had never used the word malai in her hearing; now I'd applied it to her.· Compared to pidgins, a proper language can convey such complicated concepts using relatively few words.· He had used the word quite automatically.· The prediction: Some one from the Cowboys or Steelers will use a four-letter word during a live locker-room interview.· She gave orders to the Trapper using words neither Marian nor Allen understood.· That is, he uses words to tell you he likes the juice, but not the milk.
· Gimmelmann hadn't uttered a word during dinner.· The boy had lived here for weeks without uttering such words.· In fact, I challenge Prescott to utter 16 words on any subject without making an utter fool of himself.· Cantor was barely able to utter this single word, so full of suspense, desire, triumph, and some deviousness.· As for the unemployment issue, I have never, never, uttered one word about this sensitive and intensely sad situation.· Their father has not uttered a word since he arrived two days ago.· The Princess - looking very thin again - merely toyed with her food and hardly uttered a word during the hour-long trip.· It does not even protect a man from an injunction against uttering words that may have all the effect of force.
· She was an idiot, coming apart at the seams, and she hadn't written a word.· The course involves very little writing, except for words and phrases the students must scribble in the blanks on the pages.· The Bad ` Un's strategy is to prevent the written word from becoming food for hungry souls.· Even readers whose knowledge of the written word comes from cereal boxes are familiar with metaphors using battlefields and quicksand.· However, it is useful for the patient to practise writing words, so a typewriter or word-processor can be the answer.· And while you may not swear or shout aloud, your writing slows, words dropping stiff and stilted.· Remember here that some people do not like seeing you write down their words for it interrupts their flow of thought.· And as I write these words I am not even sure I would really want to.
PHRASES FROM THE ENTRY► say a word/say a few words► a harsh/a cross/an angry etc word► somebody’s words► my/his/your etc word► take the words (right) out of somebody’s mouth► too silly/complicated/ridiculous etc for words► the words► word!► (Upon) my word!► surprised/angry/pleased etc isn’t the word for itPHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES► not have a bad word to say about/against somebody► my word is my bond► the c-word► clip your words► something is a dirty word► your word of honour► somebody’s word is law► manage a few words/a smile etc► mum’s the word► the N-word► (there’s) many a true word spoken in jest► (the word) failure/guilt/compromise etc is not in somebody’s vocabulary
- Do not believe a word of it.
- For the rest of the journey Maria prattled on about Bradford, but Ruth did not hear a word.
- However, it also shows that they are not very useful, for Hera did not believe a word of it.
- I kept it up until I was certain you were not hearing a word.
- To date I've not heard word one about such a plague in the Czech Republic.
- We had not heard a word about my father all this time.
- He throws himself without a word on to the blanket beside him.
- Jed began to know where Creed wanted to go without a word being uttered.
- Now this woman of endless stories, a teacher, lies without words, waiting to die.
- She turned without a word and walked back to where her friends lay like casualties.
- Sitting down opposite without a word he picked up the glass and emptied the contents down his throat.
- Still without a word Pearl brought Ezra to the tiny kitchen.
- The place is empty but for the bar and three or four slightly-built lads shooting pool without words.
- Then she turned and without a word left him and the house, too.
- And a word of advice just you be careful of that old goat, Moreton.
- And a word of warning - when you arrive in Hye-on-Wye beware of the second-hand bookshops.
- But business advisors in the city have sounded a word of caution.
- He would hand her a sheaf of uncounted bank notes, which she received without a word of thanks.
- However, a word of caution is in order.
- Now a word of warning about the stitch patterns in the pattern book.
- Take a word of advice, Mr Watt.
- You won't mind a word of advice?
- Could Sandra please not say a word to anyone, not even the women or the other rescue workers?
- He did not say a word, just stared at the sky.
- Marty was offering her his handkerchief, not saying a word.
- She did not say a word.
- She knew that she could not say a word until she had something.
- We sit there for a few more minutes not saying a word.
- Williams did not say a word until we got back to the company after the mission.
- Yoyo does not say a word.
- However; they had done little to develop emotional ideas and emotional thinking, to help Kyle put his feelings into words.
- He and Kemp pound down the stairway, exchanging words.
- I have words before my eyes, as you might imagine.
- I would hear the women exchange words with Miss Fingerstop.
- Linda buried herself in the crowd, exchanging words with this one and that and heading for the bar.
- Nurses busily went up and down, sometimes pausing to exchange words and careless laughter.
- Sometimes, Britten seems to have written more naturally when he didn't have words to set.
- They exchanged words, not all of which appeared to be in jest.
- Without it, you have words virtually sprinkled across the page, each project an exercise in speed and frustration.
- The final word rests with the board.
- But the final word must be reserved for the destructive, disruptive role played by George Bush's administration.
- But the project belonged ultimately to the pupils and they should have the last words.
- By no means has the last word been written on the quantum Hall effect.
- Dana was opinionated and liked to have the last word in an argument.
- He had learned to let Leah have the last word.
- Intimacy is probably the last word anyone would use in connection with the Coliseum.
- Let that be the last word.
- So they do; but that is not the last word, only the first.
- He asked me to repeat word for word the instructions he'd just given me.
- It appears that someone has copied your essay word for word.
- Janice repeated word for word what Harold had told her.
- The footnote gave a word for word translation of the quotation.
- The newspaper printed his speech more or less word for word.
- Benjamin borrowed a quill and a piece of parchment and copied the verse down, word for word.
- He knew the inflections and the pauses, knew what she would say, word for word, before she spoke.
- I needed to, for Jean-Claude remembered it word for word.
- It is good practice to write your proposal word for word as if it were the final draft.
- Many researchers are surprised and delighted at their ability to remember conversations almost word for word.
- Sartain said she writes out a new speech word for word and then types it herself.
- They can repeat each other's arguments word for word.
- Tikhon knows the passage by heart and recites it word for word.
- "Did you have a good vacation?" "In a word, no."
- The band were, in a word, sloppy.
- Cotey -- real slow and in words of one syllable -- and then diagram them in stick figures with Crayolas.
- Every language abounds in words for pseudo-entities.
- Everyone I talked with talks goals in numbers as well as in words, from the bottom to the top.
- I didn't say so, because the idea was too unpleasant to be clothed in words and made visible.
- I love you so much that I just can't express it in words.
- Pop, in a word, is fascination versus meaning.
- What happened was, in a word, theft.
- Cotey -- real slow and in words of one syllable -- and then diagram them in stick figures with Crayolas.
- "Did he say we got the contract?" "Not in so many words."
- In so many words, she told me that I don't have any talent.
- Although it has not said so in so many words, it is also for the supranational space.
- And, if taxed by such as Sylvester, he probably would not now admit it in so many words.
- But I also knew that if I admitted to that in so many words, Janir would start fussing.
- It hurts to write that out in so many words, but how could it be otherwise.
- Oh, not in so many words, of course.
- There is, in fact, considerable nervousness about saying these things in so many words.
- To be fair, the majority report does not in so many words advance the argument.
- Zuwaya had a deterrent theory of peace, and stated it in so many words.
- I didn't mean that at all -- you're just putting words into my mouth!
- Stop putting words into my mouth - I never said I disliked the job.
- You're putting words into her mouth. You don't know what she thinks.
- Stop trying to put words into my mouth.
- At the County Ground, the wolves were on the prowl right from the word go.
- I knew it was a deliberate attempt from the word go to bring the band down.
- In Damage, from Josephine Hart's novel, he gets more or less everything wrong from the word go.
- It was a nightmare from the word go.
- The marriage was a disaster from the word go, although I didn't realize this until it was all over.
- They are reflexes built into the system from the word go.
- A word in the ear of the Weatherfield constabulary.
- His resolve ends when again he wakes at dawn with prophetic words in his ears.
- If I were you I'd drop a quiet word in her ear before it's too late.
- Mixed blessings' A word in your ear.
- He found that even if he could get a word in edgewise it was encircled and cut off right away.
- He told her it had not been easy to get a word in.
- No one else can get a word in edgeways.
- She barely got a word in.
- So did Jim, although he said they'd never get a word in if he came.
- Usually Aunt Sarah had a job to get a word in edge ways.
- I'll put in a good word for you with the management.
- He put in a good word for him at meetings of the Jockey Club.
- Only those who keep a dialogue going will be able to put in a word for persons in need of intercession.
- Just look at this mess. Look at it. It's...Words fail me!
- To get off a train with a total stranger ... I really can not ... well, words fail me.
- Bill Templeman was a man of few words.
- Blitherdick, usually a man of few words, had become lachrymose about Blenkinsop's enjoyment of a good wine.
- He had a clear scientific mind but was self-effacing, modest, and a man of few words.
- He was a man of few words but many graphic gestures.
- He was a man of few words in any case, Maggie noted.
- I am therefore a man of few words and I have been very brief throughout my professional career.
- Ask the students to tell you what they think of when they hear the word slide.
- But the words stayed blocked in her throat.
- Commandeered, that's the word.
- I accept his statement as the word of a right hon. Member of this House.
- It was almost easy to say the words to him, and then suddenly he turned away.
- She found a notepad from the Shelbourne and scribbled the word Grimoire down.
- That first young Seal spread the word about our business to his fellow Seals, their wives, and friends.
- You may want to provide the words balance and center of gravity and demonstrate them.
- Before I went, though, I managed to have a word on the side with the lass.
- Better have a word with her about the domestic arrangements.
- Eventually the managing director was forced to have a word with him.
- I really came to have a word with Charles Julian.
- I wanted to have a word with you about Yorick.
- The cruise industry would love to have a word with you.
- You know, they have words, you read them?-Smartass, he said.
- And you want word to spread about your success-not your anxiety.
- But first he wanted a word with Darren before the boy was driven home.
- He wanted words back; nothing else would do.
- I want a word with them fellows.
- I was hanging around at the back of the church because I wanted a word with the vicar.
- Russell happened to be in the office and sounded watchful when Dexter explained why Blanche wanted a word with him.
- Tell your father to come with you, I want a word with him too.
- Weenie and Co. might be at school then and he wanted a word with Sarah on her own.
- As ever, though, actions speak louder than words.
- In any event the user's opinion of a product is reflected in the standard achieved so actions speak louder than words.
- In the kitchen, actions speak louder than words.
- On this playing field, actions speak louder than words.
- Voice over Here it's a virtue to have no belief in what you say, bandying words is an admired skill.
- We can not bandy words with Nature, or deal with her as we deal with persons.
- You've got to promise not to breathe a word to anyone.
- He did not breathe a word.
- Meyer had a few choice words for federal bureaucrats after an error listed him as deceased.
- And he also had a few choice words about my means of protecting myself.
- Or has rapper Puff been on the blower from New York with a few choice words?
- I never thought Clare would be any good at this job, but I've had to eat my words.
- They think we can't compete with them - I'll make them eat their words.
- When Tottenham went to the top of the league early in the season, people said it wouldn't last. They have had to eat their words.
- Anthony Troon, eat your words!
- But Sun will have to eat its words and may have to declare a product like its News windowing system dead.
- I reply, eating my words as I speak them.
- It is now time, however, that I eat my words.
- Lugh was going to fool Medoc very neatly, and they would all eat their words.
- So let the Review Board eat its words, when I win the annual all-industry award for originality.
- Some day they will eat their words.
- We check out a sound card that will make them eat their words - the Laserwave Plus.
- Hadn't he said that to express it would be just empty words?
- He expected her to trust him, but as far as she could see they were just empty words.
- He listens politely, then makes plausible but essentially empty gestures.
- I tried to make choices, but wound up with empty gestures.
- These are not empty words and phrases, but principles given powerful institutional sanction.
- This is the circus of empty promises and dry press releases that are part and parcel of meetings like these.
- To all these petitions the Crown returned empty promises of redress.
- He and Kemp pound down the stairway, exchanging words.
- Hughes exchanged words with umpire Steve Randell after a confident appeal against Richie Richardson was turned down when he was on 47.
- I would hear the women exchange words with Miss Fingerstop.
- Linda buried herself in the crowd, exchanging words with this one and that and heading for the bar.
- Nurses busily went up and down, sometimes pausing to exchange words and careless laughter.
- The patients loved it and several laughed out loud at her antics, while Martha and Yvonne exchanged looks of glee.
- They exchanged looks full of sadness, as if they had both lost something.
- They exchanged words, not all of which appeared to be in jest.
- So he said, with those famous last words, "Don't worry, everything will be fine."
- And we need to warn them that the words they are using can very easily become fighting words.
- It sounds like good fighting talk but, beyond the active birth arena, I wonder how accurate a picture it represents.
- Today in the 1980s many Christians don't like this fighting talk.
- Where I come from that's fighting talk.
- It is an attempt to find a form of words around which people of different views can unite.
- Not only is the subject unknown but the form of words is probably unfamiliar too.
- Other forms of words instilled into the young are also present.
- Regular inflected forms of words are not given their own specific dictionary definitions.
- The draftsman employed several different forms of words to achieve this result.
- You need to know what will be said and a suitable, accurate form of words should be specifically agreed.
- The President promised to lower income taxes, and he's been as good as his word.
- He put in a good word for him at meetings of the Jockey Club.
- No, beaming would be a better word for it.
- Poky would have been a good word for it, or dingy.
- Yes, maybe that was a good word for St Andrews.
- And the children of Elvis did hang on his every word.
- As a result, you find yourself hanging on to every word and gesture.
- We weren't all hanging on your every word anyway, even back then.
- After all, stranger things have happened: legend has it that the hooked burrs of plants inspired the invention of Velcro.
- And rumour has it that the big-name band will be outrageous rockers Guns N' Roses.
- But word has it that the Tucson Symphony is taking over the building sometime in mid-December.
- His name is cited in the four gospels. Legend has it that he obtained the holy grail from the last supper.
- It started with a cross placed along the railroad tracks, where legend has it that he was lynched.
- Pass the spliff, mon. Word has it the band is compelling as hell in person.
- This was initiated, so legend has it, when the lavatories were out of order.
- Turn right to the Cerne Giant viewing point. Legend has it that a real giant terrorised the locals.
- Apple computers became a household word in the late '80s.
- He was the first Aboriginal to have mastered a western mode of painting and by 1940 his was a household name.
- His was a household name when the craze for stereoscopic views was fashionable.
- However, a number are household names; the obvious examples are the Severn and the Thames.
- I won't tell you who she is because the name is a household word.
- It sold world-wide, was a household name, and had virtually no competition.
- Its heroes are household names and millions of pounds are at stake when it is staged.
- Of course, her name was a household word.
- Plus, it's not as if the Barn Burners, Helm's current band, is a household name.
- It's the last word in luxury resorts.
- But if airships were the last word in luxury then the penultimate word belonged to the flying boat.
- It may be the last word in consumer issues but it has never been available on news stands.
- Needless to say, this is not going to be the last word in the debate between the constructivists and the nativists.
- Sandy Lyle at the new club which is the last word in luxury golfing.
- With its 700-feet-long façade and 600-feet-long porte cochère, it is the last word in grandiose monumentalism.
- For once in her life, she was lost for words, and uncertain of her argumentative ground.
- He was lost for words at the time, and had to apologise and thank the donors later in private.
- The Maharishi's followers say that 7000 is a magic number.
- Al knew at once that he had heard A very secret magic word.
- Bacon could argue that Antichrist would invoke stellar influences and magic words having the power to produce physical effects.
- Charles would capture one of the boys and only release him if he said the magic word.
- For Geteles and others, potential was the magic word, the answer to all the talk about standards.
- If that magic number is reached, the deal becomes an international treaty.
- Once a patient has his magic number, does it have any effect?
- The magic words had been uttered.
- This is done by listening to a tape and writing on your application form a magic number.
- Charles would capture one of the boys and only release him if he said the magic word.
- Even the magic word processor can not solve the problem of afterthoughts, which are likely to alter a complete structure.
- For Geteles and others, potential was the magic word, the answer to all the talk about standards.
- That was the secret, the magic word which would open all the doors.
- They can only mean the magic word - Connie!
- He was a man of his word, and I had great respect for his intellect.
- But Dan is a man of his word.
- Crazy Horse was a man of his word and was furious at the duplicity of the white man...
- He was, as much as was possible in a world where the buck was almighty, a man of his word.
- He was a man of few words except when he mounted the stage to recite his poetry.
- Bill Templeman was a man of few words.
- Blitherdick, usually a man of few words, had become lachrymose about Blenkinsop's enjoyment of a good wine.
- He had a clear scientific mind but was self-effacing, modest, and a man of few words.
- He was a man of few words but many graphic gestures.
- He was a man of few words in any case, Maggie noted.
- I am therefore a man of few words and I have been very brief throughout my professional career.
- Mark my words, that relationship won't last.
- Helmut didn't mince any words in his criticism of the department.
- Blue does not mince words, however.
- Let's not mince words, Cathal Coughlan is the most compulsively watchable frontman in Britain today.
- That was the great thing about country music, it did not mince words.
- He's a kind of amateur psychologist, and amateur is the operative word here.
- Edgy is the operative word here.
- Fast, by the way, is the operative word.
- I was madly - and that's the operative word - head over heels in lust.
- The word liberty is the operative word.
- There are now programs on the market that can almost read as well as humans - almost being the operative word, of course.
- "Well, Randy's not quite ready to make a decision yet." "So, in other words, we have to wait, right?"
- He prides himself on his powers of persuasion -- or, in other words, his salesmanship.
- The books and materials are kept on closed access, in other words available only to the library staff.
- The tax only affects people on incomes over $200,000 - in other words, the very rich.
- This is supposed to be a democracy - in other words, one person one vote.
- What we need is a more sustainable transport system, in other words, more buses and trains, and fewer cars.
- An entrepreneur, in other words, uses resources in new ways to maximize productivity and effectiveness.
- At the beginning of the twentieth century, in other words, the hour of reform had not yet struck.
- It insists, in other words, that they must treat as law what conventions stipulates is law.
- Not a literary artist, in other words.
- Their utilitarian contribution to our welfare should not, in other words, be our criterion as to whether they survive or not.
- They signify, in other words, that everything is gift.
- What the king did, in other words, was to use the assembly to defuse trouble in the provinces.
- Why, in other words, should we want to get true beliefs rather than false ones?
- But why shouldn't feminists play with language for political ends?
- Children learn vocabulary from talking, reading, writing, and from playing with words.
- Recognising this, some feminists have used the alternative strategy of deliberately playing with words rather than attempting straightforwardly to redefine them.
- Rhymesters, poets, writers, and jokers of all kinds - and their audiences - have always loved playing with words.
- She was given to playing with words in that way.
- Young children play with language, trying out sounds before they start experimenting with words.
- But most of all, children laugh at jokes that are a play on words.
- In this chapter, I hope to show that these distinctions are important and not merely a play on words.
- None the less the play on words is there in the text, and is appropriate.
- Perhaps the best solution is to see the place as a play on words.
- Some scholars believe that Matthew is making a play on words and that the original word was Nezer.
- Such, at least, is the suggestion of that play on words.
- This was a play on words.
- With Abraham's and Sarah's laughter the storyteller is indulging in another play on words.
- When all they needed to do was lift up the phone and have a quiet word.
- Both of them said the word on the same downbeat, which made them burst into laughter at how hilarious they sounded.
- He could not bring himself to say the words, so great was his terror of plague.
- If there's anything I can do, you've only got to say the word.
- No one was actually prepared to say the word revolution-the one word in their vocabulary softened by success.
- The last team then has to say the word they had in mind.
- When the language helper says the words in a frame he will say them more naturally.
- When the truth was devastating, no wonder physicians avoided saying the words and patients refused to accept them.
- Finally he sent word that he was ready for her to come and marry him.
- He sent word, but never sent for them.
- He had sent word to Eochaid, and the gates opened.
- He operates from Southern California and sends words of hope and encouragement worldwide.
- Jody sends word for the bus to take the girls back to the Hyatt hotel.
- Minu sent word that I should stay with her in Ghanerao.
- The Lord of the Manor had sent word that he wished to see the players.
- When Lee learned what the Federals were doing, he sent word for his scattered columns to converge west of Gettysburg.
- His father had not spoken a single word to him, just followed him around the house, not a solitary word.
- But the power of X-Clan is not the spoken word.
- During secondary education, the use of the spoken word increases.
- Hal could do this when necessary, but most of his communication with his shipmates was by means of the spoken word.
- He showed a little smile, as if only the spoken word might perk his interest.
- Large halls ideal for music can be too reverberant for the spoken word.
- Other symptoms of dyslexia can include difficulty in writing, calculating or even understanding the spoken word.
- The most important bias of dictionaries is to the written rather than the spoken word.
- Female speaker I can say the odd word, but I can't string a sentence together yet.
- A man true to his word.
- But true to his word, before I left, my uncle gave me help.
- Jim, true to his word, may be the man to fix it after all.
- Otto had been true to his word and left out for me a pair of boy's shorts.
- The captain was true to his word.
- The Characters A young girl: Lazy but true to her word.
- We have been true to our word and true to our mission because of your skill and professionalism.
- This is an umbrella term, used widely and well understood in an educational context.
- We use mime as an umbrella term for all the art forms.
- Just horses and ploughs and, for want of a better word, peasants.
- Now, hands are, well, handed for want of a better word.
- He began to weigh his words with great care, struggling to express himself as economically and clearly as possible.
- Millions of illiterate Americans do not have access to the written word.
- But literacy and the written word do have a part to play.
- Even readers whose knowledge of the written word comes from cereal boxes are familiar with metaphors using battlefields and quicksand.
- In fact, the 1959 Act has worked to secure a very large measure of freedom in Britain for the written word.
- Not only visual representation, but the written word, too, is not free of imperialism.
- The direct experience of oral communication was displaced by the second-hand experience of the written word.
- They record thoughts which apparently, at some moment in time, seemed worthy of the written word.
- Without the help of the written word, film and videotape can not portray temporal dimensions with any precision.
- WordPerfect word processing software handles both the written word and graphic interpretation with ease.
WORD FAMILYadjectivewordedwordlesswordynounwordwordingverbword
1group of letters [countable] a single group of letters that are used together with a particular meaning: Write an essay of about five hundred words. What does that word mean? 'Vater' is the German word for (=that means) 'father'. Perhaps 'lucky' is not exactly the right word. → buzzword, four-letter word, swear word2somebody’s words the things that someone says or writes: Those are his words, not mine.in somebody’s words Jones was, in the judge’s words, ‘an evil man’. In your own words, explain the term ‘personal service’.3the words the words that are sung as part of a song: I know the tune, but I've forgotten the words.word to Many people don't know the words to the country's national anthem.4have a word especially spoken to talk to someone quickly, especially because you need their advice about something or you want to tell them to do something: Could I have a word?word with I’ll have a word with him and see if he’ll help.have a quick/brief word I was hoping to have a quick word with you.have/exchange a few words Could I have a few words with you?5want a word spoken to want to talk to someone, especially in order to criticize themword with Wait a minute! I want a word with you!6not hear/understand/believe a word used to emphasize that you cannot hear, understand etc what someone says or writes: No one could hear a word because someone had cut the amplifier cable.word of I can’t understand a word of Russian.7without (saying) a word if you do something without a word, you do not say anything while you do it: He left without a word.8say a word/say a few words to make a short speech about something: I’d like to say a few words about the plans.9a word of warning/caution/advice/thanks etc something you say that warns someone, thanks them etc: It’s a beautiful city, but a word of warning: street robberies are very common. He left without a word of apology.10not say a word a) (also not breathe a word) to not say anything about something because it is a secret: Promise you won’t say a word to anyone? b)to not say anything: What’s wrong? You haven’t said a word since you got here.11put your feelings/thoughts etc into words to express what you want to say clearly: He found it difficult to put ideas into words.12 have/exchange words (with somebody) to argue – use this when you do not want to make the argument seem serious: I was in a bad mood and he kept pestering me, so we had words.13a harsh/a cross/an angry etc word something you say that shows you are angry or want to criticize someone: Mountain rescue teams have harsh words to say to people who climb without proper equipment. They were married for 50 years and she says there was never an angry word between them.14news/information [singular, uncountable] a piece of news or a message: Word came that our duties would be changed. ‘Have you heard from Ann?’ ‘No, not a word.’ There was still no word from John.word gets out/around (=people hear about something) It’s a very small town and if you do something bad, word gets around.the word is (that)/word has it (that) (=people are saying that) The word is that the two companies are planning a merger.spread/pass the word (=tell other people some information or news) Health officials are encouraging people to spread the word about the benefits of exercise.send/bring word old-fashioned formal (=send or bring a message) The mayor sent word he’d be late. Word of mouth (=information you get by someone telling you) is one of the best ways of getting business.by word of mouth Much of this information is picked up by word of mouth from previous students.15the last/final word a)the power to decide whether or how to do somethingword on The final word on policy determination belongs to the committee. She has the final word on whether policies are put into action or not. b)the last statement or speech in a discussion or argument: The last word must go to Nick, who has organized the whole project. Why must you always have the last word in any argument? c)in sports, the last hit or kick in a game, especially when it is successful: Adams had the final word with a last-minute goal.16my/his/your etc word a sincere promise to do something, or a promise that what you say is true: I trust him to keep his word. I give you my word (=I promise) that it won’t happen again. They had given their word of honour that they would not attempt to escape. We only have his word for it that he has already paid. Delors claimed that Johnson had gone back on his word (=not done what he had promised to do). The business is doing very well. You can take my word for it (=accept that what I say is true). I never know whether to take him at his word (=believe what he says). His word is his bond (=he always does what he promises to do).be true to your word/be as good as your word (=do what you promise to do)a man of his word/a woman of her word (=a man or woman who does what they have promised to do)17word for word a)in exactly the same words: The newspaper printed his speech more or less word for word. b) (also word by word) if you translate a piece of writing word for word, you translate the meaning of each single word rather than the meaning of a whole phrase or sentence18in a word used before giving a very simple answer or explanation: We are, in a word, busy. Ridiculously busy.19in words of one syllable saying something in a way that is very easy to understand, especially because the person you are talking to is stupid: You have to put everything in words of one syllable for her.20in so many words (also in as many words) [usually negative] in a direct way, or in a way that makes it very clear what you mean: Aunt Fay wasn’t happy and said so in as many words.21take the words (right) out of somebody’s mouth spoken if someone takes the words out of your mouth, they have just said what you were going to say22put words into somebody’s mouth spoken to tell someone what you think they are trying to say, in a way that annoys them: Will you stop putting words into my mouth – I never said I disliked the job.23an order [singular] an order to do something: On the word ‘go’ everyone has to run to the end of the room and back. When I give the word, grab him.24(right) from the word go spoken from the beginning of something: The marriage was a disaster from the word go.25too silly/complicated/ridiculous etc for words spoken extremely silly, complicated etc: His behaviour has been too pathetic for words.26 (have/drop) a word in somebody’s ear to say something to someone privately, especially to give them advice or a warning: If I were you, I’d have a word in his ear before it’s too late.27get a word in (edgeways) to get a chance to say something: Once George starts talking it’s difficult to get a word in edgeways.28put in a (good) word for somebody to try to help someone get or achieve something by saying good things about them to someone else: I got the job because Paul put in a good word for me.29words fail me spoken used to say that you are so surprised, angry, or shocked that you do not know what to say: I ... words fail me.30word! American English informal used to say that you understand or agree with what someone has just said31(Upon) my word! spoken old-fashioned used when you are very surprised: My word! Hasn’t she grown?32surprised/angry/pleased etc isn’t the word for it spoken used to say that you are extremely surprised, angry etc33a man/woman etc of few words someone who does not say very much: My father was a man of few words.34the Word (of God) the religious ideas and messages in the Bible → eat your words at eat(3), → four-letter word, → a good word for somebody/something at good1(31), → in other words at other(11), → be the last word in something at last1(10), → be lost for words at lost2(10), → mark my words at mark1(12), → not mince your words at mince1(3), → play on words at play2(6), → say the word at say1(26), → the spoken word at spoken2(2), → the written word at written2(3)COLLOCATIONSadjectivesa new word· Computer technology has brought many new words into our language.the right/exact word (=the word that has the meaning you want)· He struggled to find the right word.a German/Italian etc word· Prosciutto is the Italian word for ham.a long word· She didn’t understand all the long words.a short word· a short word beginning with ‘d’ and ending with ‘g’big words (=words that sound very important or serious)· It scares me, when you use big words like that.a five-letter/nine-letter etc word· Can you think of a six-letter word meaning ‘difficult’?a rude word· Someone had written a rude word on the back of his chair.a swear word· He learned a few swear words on the playground.a dirty word (=a rude word)· You couldn’t say dirty words on television.a four-letter word (=a very rude word)· The programme was full of four letter words.a taboo word (=one that people are not allowed to use)· This has now become a taboo word.verbssay/speak a word· She said the words ‘my husband’ in a firm voice.use a word· Be very careful how you use the word ‘natural’.pronounce a word· How do you pronounce this word?spell a word· I always find that word hard to spell.have a word· It is not true that Eskimos have more than forty words for snow.find the word (=succeed in thinking of the right word to use)· She couldn’t find the words to explain how she felt.search for words (=try to think of words to use)· She hesitated, searching for words.look up a word (=try to find it in a book)· I looked the word up in my dictionary.THESAURUSword a single group of letters that are used together with a particular meaning: · ‘Casa’ is the Italian word for ‘house’.· I looked up the word in a dictionary.name a word that you use for a particular thing, place, organization etc: · Iberia is the ancient name for the Spanish Peninsula.· What’s the name of that type of dog?term a word or group of words that is used in a specific subject or area of language: · The medical term for losing your hair is ‘alopecia’.· People use the term ‘carbon footprint’ to talk about man’s polluting effect on the environment.phrase a group of words that have a particular meaning when used together, or which someone uses on a particular occasion: · We don’t really have a phrase for ‘bon appétit’ in English.· Politicians keep using the phrase ‘family values’.· an Italian phrase bookexpression a fixed phrase which is used in a language and has a particular meaning: · He uses a lot of obscure expressions that I don’t really understand.· What does the expression ‘wage slavery’ mean?buzzword /ˈbʌzwɜːd $ -wɜːrd/ a word or group of words that people in a particular type of work or activity have started using a lot because they think it is important: · E-learning is the buzzword in educational publishing at the moment.· For anthropologists, ethnodiversity has been a buzzword for quite a while.idiom /ˈɪdiəm/ a group of words that has a special meaning which you cannot guess from the meanings of each separate word: · ‘Full of beans’ is an idiom which means feeling lively and energetic.cliché /ˈkliːʃeɪ $ kliːˈʃeɪ/ a group of words that is used so often that it seems rather boring, annoying, or silly: · It’s a bit of a cliché, but good communication skills are the key to success.· the old movie cliché ‘we can’t go on meeting like this’slang very informal words used especially by a particular group of people such as young people, criminals, or soldiers: · Grass is slang for marijuana.· prison slang· army slangjargon words and phrases used in a particular profession or by a particular group of people, which are difficult for other people to understand – often used to show disapproval: · The instructions were full of technical jargon.· complicated legal jargonword1 nounword2 verb
wordword2 ●○○ verb [transitive] VERB TABLE
word
| Simple Form | ||
| Present | I, you, we, they | word |
| he, she, it | words | |
| Past | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | worded |
| Present perfect | I, you, we, they | have worded |
| he, she, it | has worded | |
| Past perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | had worded |
| Future | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will word |
| Future perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will have worded |
| Continuous Form | ||
| Present | I | am wording |
| he, she, it | is wording | |
| you, we, they | are wording | |
| Past | I, he, she, it | was wording |
| you, we, they | were wording | |
| Present perfect | I, you, we, they | have been wording |
| he, she, it | has been wording | |
| Past perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | had been wording |
| Future | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will be wording |
| Future perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will have been wording |
EXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
- Let me word the question a little differently.
COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES The legislation had been ambiguously worded. I don’t believe a word of it (=I think it is completely untrue). Most observers were optimistic, yet some sounded a cautionary note. He chose his words carefully as he spoke. The judge gave his closing speech to the jury. She looked at me as if I had said a dirty word. I have no reason to doubt his word (=think that he is lying). Child abuse is an emotive subject. Delors claimed that the president had gone back on his word. As a politician, you need to be good with words (=skilful at using words). Dan put in a good word for you at the meeting. No one had a good word to say for her. He had harsh words (=severe criticism) for the Government. How do I know you’ll keep your word? We thanked the priest for his kind words. He seemed, for once, at a loss for words (=unable to think what to say). Russell spoke slowly, picking his words (=choosing what to say) very carefully. As a newspaper publisher he understood the power of the printed word (=words that are printed on paper). She was slurring her words as if she was drunk. I’ll never be unfaithful again. I give you my solemn word. It looks as if Nick will stick to his word this time. For once Anthony was stuck for words (=did not know what to say). Travis seemed absolutely stumped for words. He’s always trying to twist my words and make me look bad. Cantor nodded without uttering a word. If we had more information, it would be easier to venture a firm opinion. Roy ventured a tentative smile. He encouraged us with a few well-chosen words. You can always expect a few words of wisdom from Dave.COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSADVERB
spoken (=used when advising someone what to do)· A word of advice: look at the small print in the contract very carefully.
The legislation had been ambiguously worded.· a mother’s words of approval
I don’t believe a word of it (=I think it is completely untrue). (=break your promise)· I’ve promised to do it and I never break my word.
Most observers were optimistic, yet some sounded a cautionary note. He chose his words carefully as he spoke. The judge gave his closing speech to the jury. (=a secret word you must know to get information, access etc)· UMBRA was the code word for top secret information.
· He tried to find some words of comfort that would help her.
(=of how many words or pages there are)· Your computer can do an automatic word count.
She looked at me as if I had said a dirty word. I have no reason to doubt his word (=think that he is lying). Child abuse is an emotive subject. (=the things you say to someone as encouragement)· The rest of the team shouted out words of encouragement.
(=the words someone actually said)· Try to remember his exact words – it’s very important.
(=the words that were used in a letter, speech, etc, with nothing changed)· What was the exact wording of the message?
(=it is impossible to describe something)· Words can’t express how much I miss her.
Delors claimed that the president had gone back on his word. (=what God says)· Missionaries traveled the world to tell people the word of God.
As a politician, you need to be good with words (=skilful at using words). Dan put in a good word for you at the meeting. No one had a good word to say for her. He had harsh words (=severe criticism) for the Government. (=a promise based on strong moral beliefs)· I give you my word of honour that you will not be harmed.
How do I know you’ll keep your word? (=an important or useful word)· Once you know the key words, you can make your own sentence.
We thanked the priest for his kind words. He seemed, for once, at a loss for words (=unable to think what to say). Russell spoke slowly, picking his words (=choosing what to say) very carefully.· She still had some words of praise for her ex-husband’s wit and charm.
As a newspaper publisher he understood the power of the printed word (=words that are printed on paper). (=one that you use for writing documents)· All word processing programs can check your spelling.
(=say what you are feeling or thinking)· She couldn’t put her feelings into words.
· She stopped abruptly, suddenly afraid to say the words aloud.
She was slurring her words as if she was drunk. I’ll never be unfaithful again. I give you my solemn word.· As news of his death spread, his army disintegrated.
· He has been spreading the word about ways to beat heart disease.
It looks as if Nick will stick to his word this time. For once Anthony was stuck for words (=did not know what to say). Travis seemed absolutely stumped for words. (=accept that what someone says is true) That’s the truth – take it from me.
That’s the truth – take it from me. He’s always trying to twist my words and make me look bad. Cantor nodded without uttering a word. If we had more information, it would be easier to venture a firm opinion. Roy ventured a tentative smile. (=used before telling someone to be careful about something)· A word of warning: don’t use too much glue.
He encouraged us with a few well-chosen words. You can always expect a few words of wisdom from Dave.· The agreement was carefully worded to give some satisfaction to both parties.· In a carefully worded address, Wyman argued the paradoxical facts.· In the prisoners' case, letters to the authorities should be worded carefully and courteously.
· A strongly worded White House statement on March 7 had appealed for international support in stopping the operation of the Rabta plant.· Once again, the agency sent a strongly worded warning letter, but took no punitive action.· Pete Wilson yesterday, drawing a strongly worded veto but defining the battle lines after months of debate and anguished decisions.· In a strongly worded letter this week to several dozen television stations, Rep.
· A final warning ought not to be worded vaguely.· But he said the order was vaguely worded.
NOUN· To imagine the wording of the letter to the magazine describing my own disappearance.· Once again, the agency sent a strongly worded warning letter, but took no punitive action.· In a strongly worded letter this week to several dozen television stations, Rep.
PHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES► not have a bad word to say about/against somebody► my word is my bond► the c-word► clip your words► something is a dirty word► your word of honour► somebody’s word is law► manage a few words/a smile etc► mum’s the word► the N-word► (there’s) many a true word spoken in jest► (the word) failure/guilt/compromise etc is not in somebody’s vocabulary
- As ever, though, actions speak louder than words.
- In any event the user's opinion of a product is reflected in the standard achieved so actions speak louder than words.
- In the kitchen, actions speak louder than words.
- On this playing field, actions speak louder than words.
- Voice over Here it's a virtue to have no belief in what you say, bandying words is an admired skill.
- We can not bandy words with Nature, or deal with her as we deal with persons.
- You've got to promise not to breathe a word to anyone.
- He did not breathe a word.
- Meyer had a few choice words for federal bureaucrats after an error listed him as deceased.
- And he also had a few choice words about my means of protecting myself.
- Or has rapper Puff been on the blower from New York with a few choice words?
- I never thought Clare would be any good at this job, but I've had to eat my words.
- They think we can't compete with them - I'll make them eat their words.
- When Tottenham went to the top of the league early in the season, people said it wouldn't last. They have had to eat their words.
- Anthony Troon, eat your words!
- But Sun will have to eat its words and may have to declare a product like its News windowing system dead.
- I reply, eating my words as I speak them.
- It is now time, however, that I eat my words.
- Lugh was going to fool Medoc very neatly, and they would all eat their words.
- So let the Review Board eat its words, when I win the annual all-industry award for originality.
- Some day they will eat their words.
- We check out a sound card that will make them eat their words - the Laserwave Plus.
- Hadn't he said that to express it would be just empty words?
- He expected her to trust him, but as far as she could see they were just empty words.
- He listens politely, then makes plausible but essentially empty gestures.
- I tried to make choices, but wound up with empty gestures.
- These are not empty words and phrases, but principles given powerful institutional sanction.
- This is the circus of empty promises and dry press releases that are part and parcel of meetings like these.
- To all these petitions the Crown returned empty promises of redress.
- He and Kemp pound down the stairway, exchanging words.
- Hughes exchanged words with umpire Steve Randell after a confident appeal against Richie Richardson was turned down when he was on 47.
- I would hear the women exchange words with Miss Fingerstop.
- Linda buried herself in the crowd, exchanging words with this one and that and heading for the bar.
- Nurses busily went up and down, sometimes pausing to exchange words and careless laughter.
- The patients loved it and several laughed out loud at her antics, while Martha and Yvonne exchanged looks of glee.
- They exchanged looks full of sadness, as if they had both lost something.
- They exchanged words, not all of which appeared to be in jest.
- So he said, with those famous last words, "Don't worry, everything will be fine."
- And we need to warn them that the words they are using can very easily become fighting words.
- It sounds like good fighting talk but, beyond the active birth arena, I wonder how accurate a picture it represents.
- Today in the 1980s many Christians don't like this fighting talk.
- Where I come from that's fighting talk.
- It is an attempt to find a form of words around which people of different views can unite.
- Not only is the subject unknown but the form of words is probably unfamiliar too.
- Other forms of words instilled into the young are also present.
- Regular inflected forms of words are not given their own specific dictionary definitions.
- The draftsman employed several different forms of words to achieve this result.
- You need to know what will be said and a suitable, accurate form of words should be specifically agreed.
- The President promised to lower income taxes, and he's been as good as his word.
- He put in a good word for him at meetings of the Jockey Club.
- No, beaming would be a better word for it.
- Poky would have been a good word for it, or dingy.
- Yes, maybe that was a good word for St Andrews.
- And the children of Elvis did hang on his every word.
- As a result, you find yourself hanging on to every word and gesture.
- We weren't all hanging on your every word anyway, even back then.
- After all, stranger things have happened: legend has it that the hooked burrs of plants inspired the invention of Velcro.
- And rumour has it that the big-name band will be outrageous rockers Guns N' Roses.
- But word has it that the Tucson Symphony is taking over the building sometime in mid-December.
- His name is cited in the four gospels. Legend has it that he obtained the holy grail from the last supper.
- It started with a cross placed along the railroad tracks, where legend has it that he was lynched.
- Pass the spliff, mon. Word has it the band is compelling as hell in person.
- This was initiated, so legend has it, when the lavatories were out of order.
- Turn right to the Cerne Giant viewing point. Legend has it that a real giant terrorised the locals.
- Apple computers became a household word in the late '80s.
- He was the first Aboriginal to have mastered a western mode of painting and by 1940 his was a household name.
- His was a household name when the craze for stereoscopic views was fashionable.
- However, a number are household names; the obvious examples are the Severn and the Thames.
- I won't tell you who she is because the name is a household word.
- It sold world-wide, was a household name, and had virtually no competition.
- Its heroes are household names and millions of pounds are at stake when it is staged.
- Of course, her name was a household word.
- Plus, it's not as if the Barn Burners, Helm's current band, is a household name.
- It's the last word in luxury resorts.
- But if airships were the last word in luxury then the penultimate word belonged to the flying boat.
- It may be the last word in consumer issues but it has never been available on news stands.
- Needless to say, this is not going to be the last word in the debate between the constructivists and the nativists.
- Sandy Lyle at the new club which is the last word in luxury golfing.
- With its 700-feet-long façade and 600-feet-long porte cochère, it is the last word in grandiose monumentalism.
- For once in her life, she was lost for words, and uncertain of her argumentative ground.
- He was lost for words at the time, and had to apologise and thank the donors later in private.
- The Maharishi's followers say that 7000 is a magic number.
- Al knew at once that he had heard A very secret magic word.
- Bacon could argue that Antichrist would invoke stellar influences and magic words having the power to produce physical effects.
- Charles would capture one of the boys and only release him if he said the magic word.
- For Geteles and others, potential was the magic word, the answer to all the talk about standards.
- If that magic number is reached, the deal becomes an international treaty.
- Once a patient has his magic number, does it have any effect?
- The magic words had been uttered.
- This is done by listening to a tape and writing on your application form a magic number.
- Charles would capture one of the boys and only release him if he said the magic word.
- Even the magic word processor can not solve the problem of afterthoughts, which are likely to alter a complete structure.
- For Geteles and others, potential was the magic word, the answer to all the talk about standards.
- That was the secret, the magic word which would open all the doors.
- They can only mean the magic word - Connie!
- He was a man of his word, and I had great respect for his intellect.
- But Dan is a man of his word.
- Crazy Horse was a man of his word and was furious at the duplicity of the white man...
- He was, as much as was possible in a world where the buck was almighty, a man of his word.
- He was a man of few words except when he mounted the stage to recite his poetry.
- Bill Templeman was a man of few words.
- Blitherdick, usually a man of few words, had become lachrymose about Blenkinsop's enjoyment of a good wine.
- He had a clear scientific mind but was self-effacing, modest, and a man of few words.
- He was a man of few words but many graphic gestures.
- He was a man of few words in any case, Maggie noted.
- I am therefore a man of few words and I have been very brief throughout my professional career.
- Mark my words, that relationship won't last.
- Helmut didn't mince any words in his criticism of the department.
- Blue does not mince words, however.
- Let's not mince words, Cathal Coughlan is the most compulsively watchable frontman in Britain today.
- That was the great thing about country music, it did not mince words.
- He's a kind of amateur psychologist, and amateur is the operative word here.
- Edgy is the operative word here.
- Fast, by the way, is the operative word.
- I was madly - and that's the operative word - head over heels in lust.
- The word liberty is the operative word.
- There are now programs on the market that can almost read as well as humans - almost being the operative word, of course.
- "Well, Randy's not quite ready to make a decision yet." "So, in other words, we have to wait, right?"
- He prides himself on his powers of persuasion -- or, in other words, his salesmanship.
- The books and materials are kept on closed access, in other words available only to the library staff.
- The tax only affects people on incomes over $200,000 - in other words, the very rich.
- This is supposed to be a democracy - in other words, one person one vote.
- What we need is a more sustainable transport system, in other words, more buses and trains, and fewer cars.
- An entrepreneur, in other words, uses resources in new ways to maximize productivity and effectiveness.
- At the beginning of the twentieth century, in other words, the hour of reform had not yet struck.
- It insists, in other words, that they must treat as law what conventions stipulates is law.
- Not a literary artist, in other words.
- Their utilitarian contribution to our welfare should not, in other words, be our criterion as to whether they survive or not.
- They signify, in other words, that everything is gift.
- What the king did, in other words, was to use the assembly to defuse trouble in the provinces.
- Why, in other words, should we want to get true beliefs rather than false ones?
- But why shouldn't feminists play with language for political ends?
- Children learn vocabulary from talking, reading, writing, and from playing with words.
- Recognising this, some feminists have used the alternative strategy of deliberately playing with words rather than attempting straightforwardly to redefine them.
- Rhymesters, poets, writers, and jokers of all kinds - and their audiences - have always loved playing with words.
- She was given to playing with words in that way.
- Young children play with language, trying out sounds before they start experimenting with words.
- But most of all, children laugh at jokes that are a play on words.
- In this chapter, I hope to show that these distinctions are important and not merely a play on words.
- None the less the play on words is there in the text, and is appropriate.
- Perhaps the best solution is to see the place as a play on words.
- Some scholars believe that Matthew is making a play on words and that the original word was Nezer.
- Such, at least, is the suggestion of that play on words.
- This was a play on words.
- With Abraham's and Sarah's laughter the storyteller is indulging in another play on words.
- When all they needed to do was lift up the phone and have a quiet word.
- Both of them said the word on the same downbeat, which made them burst into laughter at how hilarious they sounded.
- He could not bring himself to say the words, so great was his terror of plague.
- If there's anything I can do, you've only got to say the word.
- No one was actually prepared to say the word revolution-the one word in their vocabulary softened by success.
- The last team then has to say the word they had in mind.
- When the language helper says the words in a frame he will say them more naturally.
- When the truth was devastating, no wonder physicians avoided saying the words and patients refused to accept them.
- Finally he sent word that he was ready for her to come and marry him.
- He sent word, but never sent for them.
- He had sent word to Eochaid, and the gates opened.
- He operates from Southern California and sends words of hope and encouragement worldwide.
- Jody sends word for the bus to take the girls back to the Hyatt hotel.
- Minu sent word that I should stay with her in Ghanerao.
- The Lord of the Manor had sent word that he wished to see the players.
- When Lee learned what the Federals were doing, he sent word for his scattered columns to converge west of Gettysburg.
- His father had not spoken a single word to him, just followed him around the house, not a solitary word.
- But the power of X-Clan is not the spoken word.
- During secondary education, the use of the spoken word increases.
- Hal could do this when necessary, but most of his communication with his shipmates was by means of the spoken word.
- He showed a little smile, as if only the spoken word might perk his interest.
- Large halls ideal for music can be too reverberant for the spoken word.
- Other symptoms of dyslexia can include difficulty in writing, calculating or even understanding the spoken word.
- The most important bias of dictionaries is to the written rather than the spoken word.
- Female speaker I can say the odd word, but I can't string a sentence together yet.
- A man true to his word.
- But true to his word, before I left, my uncle gave me help.
- Jim, true to his word, may be the man to fix it after all.
- Otto had been true to his word and left out for me a pair of boy's shorts.
- The captain was true to his word.
- The Characters A young girl: Lazy but true to her word.
- We have been true to our word and true to our mission because of your skill and professionalism.
- This is an umbrella term, used widely and well understood in an educational context.
- We use mime as an umbrella term for all the art forms.
- Just horses and ploughs and, for want of a better word, peasants.
- Now, hands are, well, handed for want of a better word.
- He began to weigh his words with great care, struggling to express himself as economically and clearly as possible.
- Millions of illiterate Americans do not have access to the written word.
- But literacy and the written word do have a part to play.
- Even readers whose knowledge of the written word comes from cereal boxes are familiar with metaphors using battlefields and quicksand.
- In fact, the 1959 Act has worked to secure a very large measure of freedom in Britain for the written word.
- Not only visual representation, but the written word, too, is not free of imperialism.
- The direct experience of oral communication was displaced by the second-hand experience of the written word.
- They record thoughts which apparently, at some moment in time, seemed worthy of the written word.
- Without the help of the written word, film and videotape can not portray temporal dimensions with any precision.
- WordPerfect word processing software handles both the written word and graphic interpretation with ease.
WORD FAMILYadjectivewordedwordlesswordynounwordwordingverbword
to use words that are carefully chosen in order to express something SYN phrase: How can we word the letter so as not to offend the parents?