British English

control

control [noun] (POWER)

the act of controlling something or someone, or the power to do this

/kənˈtroʊl/

/kənˈtrəʊl/

Example:

You need to stay in control of your emotions.

Oxford Essential Dictionary

>> controller noun a person who controls something:
an air traffic controller

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English

control

I. con‧trol¹ S1 W1 /kənˈtrəʊl $ -ˈtroʊl/ BrE AmE noun
[Word Family: adjective: controlling, ↑controllable ≠ ↑uncontrollable, ↑controlled ≠ ↑uncontrolled; noun: ↑control, ↑controller; verb: ↑control; adverb: uncontrollably]
1. MAKE SOMEBODY/SOMETHING DO WHAT YOU WANT [uncountable] the ability or power to make someone or something do what you want or make something happen in the way you want:
The disease robs you of muscle control.
control of/over
Babies are born with very little control over their movements.
Artists like to have some control over where their works are hung in a gallery.
She’s a good teacher who has control of her class.
Students are encouraged to take control of their own learning, rather than just depending on the teacher.
Excessive drinking can make you lose control of your own life.
‘Do you need any help?’ ‘No. It’s under control, thanks.’
Dogs are allowed on the trails if they are kept under control.
The car spun out of control and hit a tree.
Flight delays do occur, for reasons that are outside our control.
2. POWER [uncountable] the power to make the decisions about how a country, place, company etc is organized or what it does:
The press was freed from political control.
control of
Jordan asked for editorial control of the project.
in control (of something)
Anti-government forces are still in control of the area.
By the end of the year, the rebels had control over the northern territories.
The Johnson family has effective control of the company, owning almost 60% of the shares.
China gained control of the island in 1683.
His son is being trained to take control of the family business.
The Democrats lost control of Congress in the last election.
under the control of somebody
The college was under the control of a group of trustees.
The whole of this area came under Soviet control after World War II.
The Conservatives are hoping to regain control of the city council.
3. WAY OF LIMITING SOMETHING [uncountable and countable] an action, method, or law that limits the amount or growth of something, especially something that is dangerous:
pest control
control of
the control of inflation
control on
The authorities imposed strict controls on the movement of cattle.
an agreement on arms control (=control of the amount of weapons a country has)
under control
Firefighters had the blaze under control by 9:44 p.m.
Shea used diet and exercise to bring her weight under control.
The Federal Reserve Bank raised interest rates to keep inflation under control.
rent/price/wage etc controls
Rent controls ensured that no one paid too much for housing.
tight/rigid controls (=strict controls)
the introduction of tighter controls on immigration
Police used fire hoses and dogs for crowd control.
4. ABILITY TO STAY CALM [uncountable] the ability to remain calm even when you feel very angry, upset, or excited:
There were sudden tears in his eyes and he paused, fighting for control.
Davidson lost control of himself and started yelling.
Small children can’t be expected to have the same self-control (=ability to control their emotions and behaviour) as an adult.
under control
Her voice is under control, but she is almost shaking with anger.
in control
I felt calm and in control.
5. MACHINE/VEHICLE [countable] the thing that you press or turn to make a machine, vehicle, television etc work:
the TV remote control
the volume control on the radio
a car with manual controls
at the controls (=controlling a vehicle or aircraft)
Belton, at the controls, made a perfect landing.
6. PEOPLE WHO ORGANIZE AN ACTIVITY [singular, uncountable] the people who direct an activity or who check that something is done correctly, the place where this is done, or the process of doing it:
air-traffic control
Please stop at passport control.
computers used for stock control
7. SCIENTIFIC TEST [countable]
a) a person, group etc against which you compare another person or group that is very similar, in order to see if a particular quality is caused by something or happens by chance
control group/population/sample etc
A control group of non-smoking women was compared to four groups of women smokers.
b) a thing that you already know the result for that is used in a scientific test, in order to show that your method is working correctly ⇨ ↑controlled experiment
8. COMPUTER [singular] (also control key) a particular button on a computer that allows you to do certain operations:
Press control and F2 to exit.
⇨ ↑birth control, ↑quality control, ↑remote control

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

control

con·trol [control controls controlled controlling] noun, verb [kənˈtrəʊl] [kənˈtroʊl]

noun

POWER
1. uncountable ~ (of/over sb/sth) the power to make decisions about how a country, an area, an organization, etc. is run
• The party is expecting to gain control of the council in the next election.
• The Democrats will probably lose control of Congress.
• A military junta took control of the country.
• The city is in the control of enemy forces.

• The city is under enemy control.

2. uncountable ~ (of/over sb/sth) the ability to make sb/sth do what you want
• The teacher had no control over the children.
• She struggled to keep control of her voice.
• She lost control of her car on the ice.
• He got so angry he lost control (= shouted and said or did things he would not normally do).
• Owing to circumstances beyond our control, the flight to Rome has been cancelled.
• The coach made the team work hard on ball control (= in a ball game).

see also self-control

LIMITING/MANAGING

3. uncountable, countable ~ (of/on sth) (often in compounds) the act of restricting, limiting or managing sth; a method of doing this
• traffic control
• talks on arms control
• government controls on trade and industry
• A new advance has been made in the control of malaria.
• Price controls on food were ended.
• a pest control officer

see also birth control, quality control

IN MACHINE

4. countable, usually plural the switches and buttons, etc. that you use to operate a machine or a vehicle
• the controls of an aircraft
• the control panel
• the volume control of a CD player
• The co-pilot was at the controls when the plane landed.
• a car with dual control(s) (= one set of controls for the driver and one for the instructor ).

see also remote control

IN EXPERIMENT

5. countable (technical) a person, thing or group used as a standard of comparison for checking the results of a scientific experiment; an experiment whose result is known, used for checking working methods
• The study showed that women with the disease have had fewer children than the controls.

• One group was treated with the new drug, and the control group was given a sugar pill.

PLACE

6. singular a place where orders are given or where checks are made; the people who work in this place
• air traffic control
• We went through passport control and into the departure lounge.

• This is Mission Control calling the space shuttle Discovery.

ON COMPUTER

7. uncountable (also conˈtrol key singular) (on a computer keyboard) a key that you press when you want to perform a particular operation
Word Origin:
late Middle English (as a verb in the sense ‘check or verify accounts’, especially by referring to a duplicate register): from Anglo-Norman French contreroller ‘keep a copy of a roll of accounts’, from medieval Latin contrarotulare, from contrarotulus ‘copy of a roll’, from contra- ‘against’ + rotulus ‘a roll’. The noun is perhaps via French contrôle.
Thesaurus:
control noun
1. U
• The city is under enemy control.
power • • rule • • authority • • command • • hold • • grasp • • discipline • |formal jurisdiction •
in control/power/authority/command
be under sb's control/rule/authority/command/jurisdiction
have/give sb control/power/authority/command/a hold/jurisdiction over sb/sth
2. U, C
• government controls on trade and industry
limit • • limitation • • restriction • • constraint • • restraint • • check • • ceiling • • curb •
controls/limits/limitations/restrictions/constraints/restraints/checks/a ceiling/curbs on sth
without controls/limits/limitations/restrictions/constraints/restraints/checks
impose controls/limits/limitations/restrictions/constraints/restraints/checks/a ceiling/curbs
3. C, usually pl.
• the controls of an aircraft
button • • switch • • dial • • wheel • • lever • • knob •
be at/take the controls/wheel
adjust the controls/dial
the controls/wheel operates sth
Synonyms:
limit
restriction • control • constraint • restraint • limitation
These are all words for sth that limits what you can do or what can happen.
limit • the greatest or smallest amount of sth that is allowed: ▪ The EU has set strict limits on pollution levels. ◊ ▪ the speed limit
restriction • (rather formal) a rule or law that limits what you can do: ▪ There are no restrictions on the amount of money you can withdraw.
control • (often in compounds) the act of limiting or managing sth; a method of doing this: ▪ arms control
constraint • (rather formal) a fact or decision that limits what you can do: ▪ We have to work within severe constraints of time and money.
restraint • (rather formal) a decision, a rule, an idea, etc. that limits what you can do; the act of limiting sth because it is necessary or sensible to do so: ▪ The government has imposed export restraints on some products. ◊ ▪ The unions are unlikely to accept any sort of wage restraint.
limitation • the act or process of limiting sth; a rule, fact or condition that limits sth: ▪ They would resist any limitation of their powers.
restriction, constraint, restraint or limitation?
These are all things that limit what you can do. A restriction is rule or law that is made by sb in authority. A constraint is sth that exists rather than sth that is made, although it may exist as a result of sb's decision. A restraint is also sth that exists: it can exist outside yourself, as the result of sb else's decision; but it can also exist inside you, as a fear of what other people may think or as your own feeling about what is acceptable: ▪ moral/social/cultural restraints. A limitation is more general and can be a rule that sb makes or a fact or condition that exists.
limits/restrictions/controls/constraints/restraints/limitations on sth
limits/limitations to sth
severe limits/restrictions/controls/constraints/restraints/limitations
tight limits/restrictions/controls/constraints
to impose/remove limits/restrictions/controls/constraints/restraints/limitations
to lift restrictions/controls/constraints/restraints
Example Bank:
• Chief Air Officer Sedley was at the controls of the Boeing 707.
• Editors do not exercise control over large sections of their newspapers.
• Enemy forces have now regained control of the area.
• Everything is under control
• He defended the tradition of civilian control over the military.
• He lost control of the car when he swerved to avoid a bicycle.
• He wants to hand over control of social security to the private sector.
• He's a real control freak.
• I had this feeling that things were out of control.
• Many teenagers have poor impulse control.
• New crime control measures have failed.
• Once we were in the air, I was allowed to take the controls.
• Parking is outside my control.
• The car went out of control on the icy road.
• The country has tightened its border controls.
• The department was under the control of Bryce Thompson.
• The elected government is back in control.
• The event has been cancelled due to circumstances beyond our control.
• The government has imposed strict controls on new building.
• The idea is to give councils full control of their own budgets.
• The police are experts in crowd control.
• They have introduced controls on public spending.
• They have little control over that side of the business.
• They soon got the situation under control.
• Weeds should be kept under strict control.
• a programmable control unit
• attempts to wrest control of the town from government forces
• calls for tougher export controls
• government plans to centralize control of schools
• plans to relax price controls
• the air traffic control tower
• the water pressure control valve
• A pest control officer was called in to deal with the rat problem.
• He got so angry he lost control.
• Practical measures such as quality control and testing are very important in the manufacturing process.
• The aim is to give people more control over their own lives.
• The city is under enemy control.
• The coach made the team work hard on ball control.
• The family has sold most of its shares and will lose control of the company.
• a reliable method of birth control

Idioms: get something under control ▪ in control ▪ out of control ▪ under control

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition

control / kənˈtrəʊl / / -ˈtroʊl / noun (POWER)

B2 [ C or U ] the act of controlling something or someone, or the power to do this:

She's got no control over that child - it's terrible.

He wants the government to impose strict controls on dog ownership.

The dictator took control of the country in 1933.

He felt he was losing control of events.

You need to stay in control of your emotions.

The car skidded and went out of control, crashing into an oncoming truck.

There was nothing we could do about it - the situation was out of/beyond/outside our control.

She criticized the police's methods of crowd control.

under control B2 being dealt with or limited successfully:

It seems that the disease is now under control.

Everything is under control, sir.

It took them two hours to bring/get the fire under control.

Word partners for control noun

assume / have / take control • lose / relinquish control • gain / get / seize control • impose / strengthen / tighten controls on sth • complete / direct / full / total control • firm / strict / tight control • control of / on / over sb/sth • beyond / out of / under sb's control

control / kənˈtrəʊl / / -ˈtroʊl / noun (SWITCH)

B2 [ C ] a switch or other device used to operate a machine such as a vehicle:

The main instruments are in the centre of the control panel .

Captain Firth sat at the controls of the aircraft.

[ C usually singular ] ( also control key , written abbreviation Ctrl ) a key on a computer keyboard that you press at the same time as other keys to make the keyboard operate in a particular way:

Press and hold down the control key while you press 9.

I pressed Control Alt Delete but nothing happened.

Word partners for control noun

control / kənˈtrəʊl / / -ˈtroʊl / noun [ C ] specialized (IN AN EXPERIMENT)

in an experiment, an object or system that is not changed so that you can compare it with similar objects or systems that are intentionally changed

Word partners for control noun

Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary

control

[kəntro͟ʊl]
♦
controls, controlling, controlled
1) N-UNCOUNT: oft N of/over n Control of an organization, place, or system is the power to make all the important decisions about the way that it is run.
  The restructuring involves Mr Ronson giving up control of the company...
  The first aim of his government would be to establish control over the republic's territory.
  ●
  PHRASE: usu v-link PHR, usu PHR of n If you are in control of something, you have the power to make all the important decisions about the way it is run.
  Nobody knows who is in control of the club...
  In the West, people feel more in control of their own lives.
  PHRASE: PHR after v, v-link PHR If something is under your control, you have the power to make all the important decisions about the way that it is run.
  All the newspapers were taken under government control.
2) N-UNCOUNT: oft N of/over n If you have control of something or someone, you are able to make them do what you want them to do.
  He lost control of his car...
  Some teachers have more control over pupils than their parents have.
3) N-UNCOUNT If you show control, you prevent yourself behaving in an angry or emotional way.
  He had a terrible temper, and sometimes he would completely lose control...
  He was working hard to keep control of himself.
4) VERB The people who control an organization or place have the power to take all the important decisions about the way that it is run.
  [V n] He now controls the largest retail development empire in southern California...
  [V n] Almost all of the countries in Latin America were controlled by dictators...
  [V-ing] Minebea ended up selling its controlling interest in both firms.
  Derived words:
  -controlled COMB in ADJ AGA Gas is Swedish-controlled. ...the state-controlled media.
5) VERB To control a piece of equipment, process, or system means to make it work in the way that you want it to work.
  [V n] ...a computerised system to control the gates...
  [V n] Scientists would soon be able to manipulate human genes to control the ageing process.
  [V-ed] ...the controlled production of energy from sugar by a cell.
  Derived words:
  -controlled COMB in ADJ ...computer-controlled traffic lights.
6) VERB When a government controls prices, wages, or the activity of a particular group, it uses its power to restrict them.
  [V n] The federal government tried to control rising health-care costs.
  [V n] ...measures to control illegal mining.
N-UNCOUNT: with supp
Control is also a noun. Control of inflation remains the government's absolute priority.
7) VERB If you control yourself, or if you control your feelings, voice, or expression, you make yourself behave calmly even though you are feeling angry, excited, or upset.
  [V pron-refl] Jo was advised to learn to control herself...
  [V n] I just couldn't control my temper.
  Syn:
  restrain
  Derived words:
  controlled ADJ-GRADED Her manner was quiet and very controlled.
8) VERB To control something dangerous means to prevent it from becoming worse or from spreading.
  [V n] ...the need to control environmental pollution...
  [V n] One of the biggest tasks will be to control the spread of malaria.
9) N-COUNT A control is a device such as a switch or lever which you use in order to operate a machine or other piece of equipment.
  I practised operating the controls.
  ...the control box.
  ●
  PHRASE If someone is at the controls of a machine or other piece of equipment, they are operating it.
  He died of a heart attack while at the controls of the plane.
10) N-VAR Controls are the methods that a government uses to restrict increases, for example in prices, wages, or weapons.
  Critics question whether price controls would do any good...
  Their talks are expected to focus on arms control...
  They have very strict gun control in Sweden.
11) N-VAR: n N The word control is used to refer to a place where your documents or luggage are officially checked when you enter a foreign country.
  He went straight through Passport Control without incident.
  ...an agreement to abolish border controls.
12) → See also air traffic control, birth control, quality control, remote control, stock control
13) PHRASE: usu v PHR, v-link PHR If something is out of control, no-one has any power over it.
  The fire is burning out of control...
  I'm dealing with customers all the time who have let their debts get out of control.
14) PHRASE: v-link PHR, PHR after v If something harmful is under control, it is being dealt with successfully and is unlikely to cause any more harm.
  The situation is under control...
  If the current violence is to be brought under control, the government needs to act.

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary:

control

²control noun, pl -trols
1 [noncount] : the power to make decisions about how something is managed or done
• The city wanted local control of education.
• The troops had no control [=choice] over where they would be stationed.
• The tribes fought for control over the territory.
• He took control of the family farm.
• She hired an accountant to take control of her money.
• Two-thirds of the market is in the control of three companies. [=is controlled by three companies]
• He always wants to be in control. [=he wants to be the one who makes decisions]
• The team is under the control of a new coach. [=a new coach is in charge of the team; the team has a new coach]
• The weather is not in/under our control. = The weather is beyond our control. [=we cannot control the weather]
2 [noncount] : the ability to direct the actions of someone or something
• He lost all muscle control in his left arm.
• She no longer has control of her (mental) faculties. [=she is no longer able to think clearly or make rational decisions]
• The soccer player showed good control of the ball.
• a teacher with good control of her students
• The driver lost control (of the car) and hit a tree.
✦If you lose control or lose control of yourself, you become very angry, upset, or excited.
• He lost control of himself and yelled at his students.
✦If people or things are out of control, they cannot be handled or managed with success.
• The car went out of control and crashed.
• The child was out of control. She ran around the store screaming.
• The campfire got out of control and started a forest fire.
• The situation got out of control, and a fight started.
3 : an action, method, or law that limits the amount or growth of something

[count]

• The farmer used an organic pest control on his crops.
• To cut down on competition, the government passed price controls on prescription drugs.
• The President wants stricter controls on immigration.

[noncount]

• The two nations talked about arms control. [=control of the amount of weapons a country has]
• population control
- see also biological control, birth control, gun control, quality control, rent control damage control at ¹damage
4 [count] : a device or piece of equipment used to operate a machine, vehicle, or system
• the volume control on a television
• the controls of the aircraft
• a car with manual controls
• a control panel
✦If you are at the controls, you are controlling a vehicle.
• The copilot was at the controls when the plane landed.
- see also remote control
5 [singular] : the group of people who direct or control something (such as the flight of an aircraft)
• pilots communicating with air traffic control
• a control tower/room
- see also mission control
6 [count] : a person, thing, or group that is not treated with something that is being tested in an experiment in order to allow comparison with a treated person, thing, or group
• The effects of the drug were clear when the test group was compared with the control group.
in control
1 : having control of something
• She will still be in control of the sales department.
• He managed to stay in control of his emotions.
2 : not overly upset or excited : calm and able to think and act in a sensible way
• In spite of the pressure to pass the test, he felt calm and in control.
under control : able to be handled or managed with success : not out of control
• She remained calm and kept the situation under control.
• A year after the divorce, he finally got his life back under control. [=he finally regained control of his life]
• The firefighters got the fire under control.
• You need to get your drinking/gambling/anger under control.
• Don't worry—I have everything under control.

American English

British English

power to control

B2 (Upper-intermediate)

noun

artificial

artificial [adjective]

made by people, often as a copy of something natural

/ˌɑːr.t̬əˈfɪʃ.əl/

/ˌɑː.tɪˈfɪʃ.əl/

Example:

clothes made of artificial fibres

Oxford Essential Dictionary

artificial

adjective
not natural or real, but made by people:
artificial flowers

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English

artificial

ar‧ti‧fi‧cial S3 /ˌɑːtəˈfɪʃəl◂, ˌɑːtɪˈfɪʃəl◂ $ ˌɑːr-/ BrE AmE adjective [usually before noun]
[Date: 1300-1400; Language: Old French; Origin: artificiel, from Latin artificialis, from artificium; ⇨ ↑artifice]
1. not real or not made of natural things but made to be like something that is real or natural SYN false OPP natural:
artificial flowers
artificial light
artificial fertilizers
2. an artificial situation or quality exists because someone has made it exist, and not because it is really necessary:
artificial distinctions
artificial barriers of gender and race
3. artificial behaviour is not sincere – used to show disapproval OPP genuine:
an artificial smile
—artificially adverb:
Food prices are being kept artificially low.
—artificiality /ˌɑːtəfɪʃiˈæləti, ˌɑːtɪfɪʃiˈæləti $ ˌɑːr-/ noun [uncountable]
• • •
COLLOCATIONS
■ nouns
▪ artificial light/lighting Energy is being wasted by using artificial lighting when daylight is adequate.
▪ artificial sweeteners (=used to make food or drink taste sweeter) Diet drinks contain artificial sweeteners like saccharin.
▪ artificial colours (=used in food) I try to buy food that is free from artificial colours.
▪ artificial flavours Ice cream often has artificial flavours in it.
▪ artificial additives (=used to give food more colour or taste) Artificial additives such as colourings, sweeteners and flavour enhancers aren’t permitted in baby foods.
▪ artificial preservatives (=used to preserve food) This jam has no artificial preservatives.
▪ artificial flowers a vase of stiff-looking artificial flowers
▪ an artificial environment Animals hate being confined in an artificial environment.
▪ artificial grass artificial grass tennis courts
▪ artificial snow Some ski resorts use huge amounts of artificial snow.
▪ an artificial pitch British English The club is building a new artificial training pitch at its sports ground.
• • •
THESAURUS
▪ artificial not real or natural, but made to look or work like something real or natural: artificial flowers | He was given an artificial heart.
▪ synthetic made using chemical processes rather than by natural processes: synthetic fabrics | a synthetic version of the drug
▪ man-made made by people – used especially about geographical features and materials: a man-made lake | man-made fibres
▪ fake made to look or seem like something else, especially in order to deceive people: a fake passport | fake fur
▪ imitation made to look like something, but not real – used especially about guns, jewellery, and leather: imitation firearms | imitation pearls
▪ false artificial – used especially about teeth, ↑eyelashes, and ↑beards: a set of false teeth
▪ simulated not real, but made to look, sound, or feel real, especially by means of special computers or machines: a simulated space flight
▪ virtual made, done, seen etc on a computer, rather than in the real world: a virtual tour of the garden

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

artificial

ar·ti·fi·cial [ˌɑːtɪˈfɪʃl] [ˌɑːrtɪˈfɪʃl] adjective
1. made or produced to copy sth natural; not real
• an artificial limb/flower/sweetener/fertilizer

• artificial lighting/light

2. created by people; not happening naturally
• A job interview is a very artificial situation.

• the artificial barriers of race, class and gender

3. not what it appears to be
Syn: fake
• artificial emotion
Derived Words: artificiality ▪ artificially
Word Origin:
late Middle English: from Old French artificiel or Latin artificialis, from artificium ‘handicraft’, based on ars, art- ‘art’ + facere ‘make’.
Thesaurus:
artificial adj.
1.
• free from artificial colours and flavours
synthetic • • man-made • • false • • fake • • imitation •
Opp: natural
artificial/synthetic/man-made fabrics/fibres/materials/products
artificial/synthetic/fake/imitation fur/leather
artificial/synthetic/false/fake/imitation diamonds/pearls
2.
• A job interview is a very artificial situation.
disapproving forced • • strained • • laboured • • contrived •
a/an artificial/contrived situation/example
a forced/strained smile
sound forced/strained/laboured/contrived
Synonyms:
artificial
synthetic • false • man-made • fake • imitation
These words all describe things that are not real, or not naturally produced or grown.
artificial • made or produced to copy sth natural; not real: ▪ artificial flowers ◊ ▪ artificial light
synthetic • made by combining chemical substances rather than being produced naturally by plants or animals: ▪ synthetic drugs ◊ ▪ shoes with synthetic soles
false • not natural: ▪ false teeth ◊ ▪ a false beard
man-made • made by people; not natural: ▪ man-made fibres such as nylon
fake • made to look like sth else; not real: ▪ a fake-fur jacket
imitation • [only before noun] made to look like sth else; not real: ▪ She would never wear imitation pearls.
artificial/synthetic/man-made fabrics/fibres/materials/products
artificial/synthetic/fake/imitation fur/leather
artificial/synthetic/false/fake/imitation diamonds/pearls
Example Bank:
• a patently artificial contrivance
• All food served in the restaurant is completely free from any artificial colours and flavours.
• I don't like having to do detailed work in artificial light.
• It would be entirely artificial to try and divorce the two issues.
• The patient was kept alive by the artificial heart for nearly two months.

• They use rather artificial examples.

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition

artificial / ˌɑː.tɪˈfɪʃ. ə l / / ˌɑːr.t̬ɪ- / adjective

B2 made by people, often as a copy of something natural:

clothes made of artificial fibres

an artificial heart

an artificial lake

artificial fur/sweeteners/flowers

C2 disapproving not sincere:

Their cheerfulness seemed rather strained and artificial.

Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary

artificial

[ɑ͟ː(r)tɪfɪ̱ʃ(ə)l]
1) ADJ Artificial objects, materials, or processes do not occur naturally and are created by human beings, for example using science or technology.
  ...a wholefood diet free from artificial additives, colours and flavours...
  The city is dotted with small lakes, natural and artificial...
  He did not want his life to be prolonged by artificial means.
  Syn:
  synthetic
  Ant:
  natural
  Derived words:
  artificially ADV usu ADV with v, also ADV adj ...artificially sweetened lemonade. ...drugs which artificially reduce heart rate.
2) ADJ-GRADED: usu ADJ n An artificial state or situation exists only because someone has created it, and therefore often seems unnatural or unnecessary.
  Even in the artificial environment of an office, our body rhythms continue to affect us...
  He foresaw an open society without artificial barriers of background, religion or race.
  Derived words:
  artificiality [ɑ͟ː(r)tɪfɪ̱ʃiælɪti] N-UNCOUNT oft N of n ...another example of the capriciousness and artificiality of our adversarial system of justice.
  artificially ADV-GRADED ADV adj, ADV with v ...state subsidies that have kept retail prices artificially low.
3) ADJ-GRADED (disapproval) If you describe someone or their behaviour as artificial, you disapprove of them because they pretend to have attitudes and feelings which they do not really have.
  The voice was patronizing and affected, the accent artificial.
  Derived words:
  artificiality N-UNCOUNT oft N of n ...the novel's use of homosexuality to suggest the artificiality of all relationships in that nervous city.
4) ADJ-GRADED If you say that food tastes or looks artificial, you do not like it because its taste or appearance does not seem genuine, and seems to be created by added substances.
  The meat was chewy and the sauce was glutinous and tasted artificial.
  ...complaints that their tinned peas were an artificial shade of green.

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary:

artificial

ar·ti·fi·cial /ˌɑɚtəˈfɪʃl̩/ adj
1 : not natural or real : made, produced, or done to seem like something natural
• artificial lighting/plants
• the world's first artificial heart
• This product contains no artificial colors/flavors/sweeteners—only natural substances are used.
2 : not happening or existing naturally : created or caused by people
• artificial price inflation
• The country's borders are artificial, and were set with no consideration for the various ethnic groups in the region.
3 [more ~; most ~] : not sincere
• an artificial smile
• Her concern seemed a bit artificial. [=forced]

American English

British English

natural and artificial

B2 (Upper-intermediate)

adjective

superficial

superficial [adjective] (NOT SERIOUS)

(of a person) never thinking about things that are serious or important

/ˌsuː.pɚˈfɪʃ.əl/

/ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ.əl/

Example:

He's fun to be with, but he's very superficial.

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English

superficial

su‧per‧fi‧cial /ˌsuːpəˈfɪʃəl◂ $ -pər-/ BrE AmE adjective
[Date: 1300-1400; Language: Late Latin; Origin: superficialis, from Latin superficies 'surface', from facies 'face']
1. NOT LOOKING/STUDYING CAREFULLY not studying or looking at something carefully and only seeing the most noticeable things
superficial examination/study etc
Even a superficial inspection revealed serious flaws.
Naturally, such visits can allow only the most superficial understanding of prison life.
2. APPEARANCE seeming to have a particular quality, although this is not true or real
superficial resemblance/similarity
Despite their superficial similarities, the two novels are, in fact, very different.
Beneath his refined manners and superficial elegance lay something treacherous.
at/on a superficial level
At a superficial level, things seem to have remained the same.
3. WOUND/DAMAGE affecting only the surface of your skin or the outside part of something, and therefore not serious:
She escaped with only superficial cuts and bruises.
superficial damage
4. PERSON someone who is superficial does not think about things that are serious or important – used to show disapproval SYN shallow:
All the other girls seemed silly and superficial to Darlene.
5. NOT IMPORTANT superficial changes, difficulties etc are not important and do not have a big effect SYN minor:
superficial changes in government policies
6. TOP LAYER existing in or relating to the top layer of something, especially soil, rock etc

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

superficial

super·fi·cial [ˌsuːpəˈfɪʃl] [ˌsjuːpəˈfɪʃl] [ˌsuːpərˈfɪʃl] adjective
1. (often disapproving) not studying or looking at sth thoroughly; seeing only what is obvious
• a superficial analysis

• The book shows only a superficial understanding of the historical context.

2. appearing to be true, real or important until you look at it more carefully
• superficial differences/similarities

• When you first meet her, she gives a superficial impression of warmth and friendliness.

3. (of a wound or damage) only affecting the surface and therefore not serious
• a superficial injury

• superficial burns

4. (disapproving) not concerned with anything serious or important and lacking any depth of understanding or feeling
Syn: shallow
• a superficial friendship
• The guests engaged in superficial chatter.

• She's so superficial!

5. (technical) of or on the surface of sth
• superficial veins
• a superficial deposit of acidic soils
Derived Words: superficiality ▪ superficially
Word Origin:
late Middle English: from late Latin superficialis, from Latin superficies, from super- ‘above’ + facies ‘face’.
Example Bank:
• The movie bears a fairly superficial resemblance to the original novel.

• Superficial similarities can be deceptive.

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition

superficial / ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ. ə l / / -pɚ- / adjective disapproving (NOT SERIOUS)

C2 (of a person) never thinking about things that are serious or important:

He's fun to be with, but he's very superficial.

superficiality / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ɪ.ti / / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ə.t̬i / noun [ U ]

superficially / -i / adverb

The job I've been offered is superficially (= seems to be) attractive/appealing, but I think I might find it boring after a while.

Religious education is poorly and superficially taught in most schools.

superficial / ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ. ə l / / -pɚ- / adjective usually disapproving (NOT COMPLETE)

C2 not complete and involving only the most obvious things:

I thought that article was written at a very superficial level.

The documentary's treatment/analysis of the issues was very superficial.

I only have a superficial (= slight) knowledge of French.

superficiality / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ɪ.ti / / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ə.t̬i / noun [ U ]

superficially / -i / adverb

The job I've been offered is superficially (= seems to be) attractive/appealing, but I think I might find it boring after a while.

Religious education is poorly and superficially taught in most schools.

superficial / ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ. ə l / / -pɚ- / adjective (FALSE APPEARANCE)

appearing to be real or important when this is not true or correct:

There are superficial similarities between the two cars, but actually they're quite different in terms of performance.

superficiality / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ɪ.ti / / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ə.t̬i / noun [ U ]

superficially / -i / adverb

The job I've been offered is superficially (= seems to be) attractive/appealing, but I think I might find it boring after a while.

Religious education is poorly and superficially taught in most schools.

superficial / ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ. ə l / / -pɚ- / adjective (ONLY ON SURFACE)

only on the surface of something:

superficial damage

The driver only received superficial injuries/cuts/wounds.

Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary

superficial

[su͟ːpə(r)fɪ̱ʃ(ə)l]
1) ADJ-GRADED (disapproval) If you describe someone as superficial, you disapprove of them because they do not think deeply, and have little understanding of anything serious or important.
  This guy is a superficial yuppie with no intellect whatsoever...
  The tone of his book is consistently negative, occasionally arrogant, and often superficial.
  Derived words:
  superficiality [su͟ːpə(r)fɪʃiæ̱lɪti] N-UNCOUNT oft N of n He hated the superficiality, the neon glamour and the cheap prettiness of life in L.A.
  superficially ADV-GRADED ADV after v Hill cannot write badly or superficially; his characters and plotting are, as usual, admirable.
2) ADJ-GRADED If you describe something such as an action, feeling, or relationship as superficial, you mean that it includes only the simplest and most obvious aspects of that thing, and not those aspects which require more effort to deal with or understand.
  Their arguments do not withstand the most superficial scrutiny...
  His roommate had been pleasant on a superficial level...
  Father had no more than a superficial knowledge of music.
  Derived words:
  superficiality N-UNCOUNT oft N of n His assessment only serves to demonstrate the superficiality of the judgements we make when we first meet people.
  superficially ADV-GRADED ADV with v The film touches on these difficult questions, but only superficially.
3) ADJ-GRADED Superficial is used to describe the appearance of something or the impression that it gives, especially if its real nature is very different.
  Despite these superficial resemblances, this is a darker work than her earlier novels...
  Spain may well look different but the changes are superficial.
  Derived words:
  superficially ADV-GRADED ADV with cl/group, ADV with v Many of these killers are frequently glib and superficially charming... Superficially there have been many changes in Britain in recent years.
4) ADJ-GRADED Superficial injuries are not very serious, and affect only the surface of the body. You can also describe damage to an object as superficial.
  The 69-year-old clergyman escaped with superficial wounds...
  The explosion caused superficial damage to the fortified house.
  Syn:
  slight
5) ADJ: ADJ n The superficial layers of the skin are the ones nearest the surface. [MEDICAL]
  ...superficial blood vessels in the forearm.

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary:

superficial

su·per·fi·cial /ˌsuːpɚˈfɪʃəl/ adj [more ~; most ~]
1 : concerned only with what is obvious or apparent : not thorough or complete
• a superficial analysis of the results/data
• They had a superficial knowledge/understanding of the topic.
• These superficial changes/solutions don't address the underlying problem.
2 a : affecting only the outer part or surface of something : not deep or serious
• superficial wounds/cuts
• The storm only caused superficial damage to the building.
b : lying close to the surface
• superficial veins
3
- used to describe a quality, characteristic, etc., that can be seen in the outward appearance or manner of something or someone but that is not deep or genuine
• Despite a superficial resemblance, the paintings are by two different artists.
• These similarities/differences are only superficial.
• Don't be deceived by his superficial charm.
• On a superficial level, his theory works, but the facts don't support it.
4 disapproving : not caring about or involving important matters or deep emotions
• He thinks she's vain and superficial. [=shallow]
• I'm not interested in superficial relationships.
- su·per·fi·ci·al·i·ty /ˌsuːpɚˌfɪʃiˈæləti/ noun [noncount]
• the superficiality of pop culture
- su·per·fi·cial·ly /ˌsuːpɚˈfɪʃəli/ adv
• Superficially, at least, the two paintings are similar.

American English

British English

not showing careful thought

C2 (Proficient)

adjective

rock

rock [verb] (WEAR SUCCESSFULLY)

(slang) to wear a particular style of clothing, etc. and look good or fashionable

/rɑːk/

/rɒk/

Example:

There are celebrities over 40 years old who can still rock a tattoo.

Oxford Essential Dictionary

rock

verb (rocks, rocking, rocked )
to move slowly backwards and forwards or from side to side; to make somebody or something do this:
The boat was rocking gently on the lake.
I rocked the baby until she went to sleep.

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English

II. rock² BrE AmE verb
[Language: Old English; Origin: roccian]
1. [intransitive and transitive] to move gently backwards and forwards or from side to side, or to make something do this ⇨ sway:
She covered her face, rocking to and fro in her grief.
The waves rocked the boat from side to side.
Paul sat gently rocking the child in his arms.
Jim rocked with laughter when he heard what had happened.
2. [transitive]
a) to make the people in a place or organization feel very shocked – used in news reports SYN shake:
The scandal rocked the nation.
b) to make the future of something seem less certain or steady than it was before, especially because of problems or changes SYN shake:
Another financial blow has rocked the industry.
The theory rocked the foundations of social and moral life.
3. rock the boat informal to cause problems for other members of a group by criticizing something or trying to change the way something is done:
He kept his feelings to himself, not wanting to rock the boat.
4. [transitive] if an explosion or ↑earthquake rocks an area, it makes it shake:
Residents had only a few minutes to escape before the blast rocked their houses.
5. somebody/something rocks spoken informal said to show that you strongly approve of someone or something
6. rock sb’s world informal to cause someone to think about something or someone in a completely new way

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

verb

MOVE GENTLY
1. intransitive, transitive to move gently backwards and forwards or from side to side; to make sb/sth move in this way
• (+ adv./prep.) The boat rocked from side to side in the waves.
• She was rocking backwards and forwards in her seat.

• ~ sb/sth (+ adv./prep.) He rocked the baby gently in his arms.

SHOCK

2. transitive, often passive ~ sb/sth (rather informal) to shock sb/sth very much or make them afraid
• The country was rocked by a series of political scandals.

• The news rocked the world.

SHAKE

3. intransitive, transitive to shake or to make sth shake violently
• The house rocked when the bomb exploded.
• ~ sth The town was rocked by an earthquake.

• (figurative) The scandal rocked the government (= made the situation difficult for it).

DANCE

4. intransitive (old-fashioned) to dance to rock music

BE GOOD
5. sth rocks intransitive (slang) used to say that sth is very good
• Her new movie rocks!
more at shake/rock the foundations of sthshake/rock sth to its foundations at foundation

Word Origin:
n. senses 1 to 4 and n. senses 6 to 7 Middle English Old French rocque medieval Latin rocca
n. sense 5 and v. late Old English roccian Germanic ‘remove, move’ Dutch rukken ‘jerk, tug’ German rücken ‘move’

Example Bank:
• He rocked back and forth in his chair.
• She gently rocked the baby in her arms.
• The boat rocked slightly.
• The boat rocked violently in the huge waves.
• The boat rocked from side to side on the water.
• The raft was rocked by a huge wave.
• The whole house rocked when the bomb exploded.

• They had only a few minutes to get out before the blast rocked their houses.

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition

rock / rɒk / / rɑːk / verb (MOVE)

C2 [ I or T ] to (cause someone or something to) move backwards and forwards or from side to side in a regular way:

He picked up the baby and gently rocked her to sleep .

If you rock back on that chair, you're going to break it.

[ T ] If a person or place is rocked by something such as an explosion, the force of it makes the person or place shake:

The explosion, which rocked the city, killed 300.

rock / rɒk / / rɑːk / verb (SHOCK)

[ T ] If an event rocks a group of people or society, it causes feelings of shock:

The managing director's resignation rocked the whole company.

rock / rɒk / / rɑːk / verb (WEAR SUCCESSFULLY)

[ T ] slang to wear a particular style of clothing, etc. and look good or fashionable:

There are celebrities over 40 years old who can still rock a tattoo.

Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary

rock

[rɒ̱k]
♦♦
rocks, rocking, rocked
1) N-UNCOUNT Rock is the hard substance which the Earth is made of.
  The hills above the valley are bare rock...
  A little way below the ridge was an outcrop of rock that made a rough shelter.
2) N-COUNT A rock is a large piece of rock that sticks up out of the ground or the sea, or that has broken away from a mountain or a cliff.
  She sat cross-legged on the rock.
  ...the sound of the sea crashing against the rocks...
  He and two friends were climbing a rock face when they heard cries for help.
3) N-COUNT A rock is a piece of rock that is small enough for you to pick up.
  She bent down, picked up a rock and threw it into the trees.
  Syn:
  stone
4) V-ERG When something rocks or when you rock it, it moves slowly and regularly backwards and forwards or from side to side.
  [V prep/adv] His body rocked from side to side with the train...
  [V prep/adv] He stood a few moments, rocking back and forwards on his heels...
  [V n] She sat on the porch and rocked the baby. [Also V]
5) V-ERG If an explosion or an earthquake rocks a building or an area, it causes the building or area to shake. [JOURNALISM]
  [V n] Three people were injured yesterday when an explosion rocked one of Britain's best known film studios.
  [V n] ...a country that's rocked by dozens of earthquakes every year...
  As the buildings rocked under heavy shell-fire, he took refuge in the cellars.
  Syn:
  shake
6) VERB If an event or a piece of news rocks a group or society, it shocks them or makes them feel less secure. [JOURNALISM]
  [V n] His death rocked the fashion business.
  [V n] ...the latest scandal to rock the monarchy...
  [V n] Wall Street was rocked by the news and shares fell 4.3 per cent by the end of trading.
  Syn:
  shake
7) N-UNCOUNT: oft N n Rock is loud music with a strong beat that is usually played and sung by a small group of people using instruments such as electric guitars and drums.
  He once told an interviewer that he didn't even like rock music.
  ...a rock concert.
  ...famous rock stars.
8) N-UNCOUNT Rock is a sweet that is made in long, hard sticks and is often sold in towns by the sea in Britain.
  ...a stick of rock.
9) PHRASE: PHR after v If you are caught between a rock and a hard place, you are in a difficult situation where you have to choose between two equally unpleasant courses of action.
10) PHRASE: usu n PHR If you have an alcoholic drink such as whisky on the rocks, you have it with ice cubes in it.
  I could do with a Scotch on the rocks.
  Syn:
  with ice
11) PHRASE: v-link PHR If something such as a marriage or a business is on the rocks, it is experiencing very severe difficulties and looks likely to end very soon.
  She confided to her mother six months ago that her marriage was on the rocks...
  Our film industry is on the rocks.
12) to rock the boat → see boat

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary:

¹rock /ˈrɑːk/ verb rocks; rocked; rock·ing
1 : to move (someone or something) back and forth or from side to side

[+ obj]

• She gently rocked the baby to sleep.
• Waves rocked the boat.

[no obj]

• He rocked back and forth while he stood waiting.
• The boat rocked back and forth on the waves.
2 [+ obj] : to cause (something) to shake violently
• An earthquake rocked the town.
• The building was rocked by an explosion.
- sometimes used figuratively
• The discovery rocked [=shook] the very foundations of their theory.
3 [+ obj] informal
a : to cause (someone or something) to be upset or shocked
• The news of the murders rocked the town.
b : to affect or influence (someone or something) very powerfully
• Their invention rocked the computer industry.
c : to entertain (someone) in a very powerful and effective way
• The band rocked the crowd.
• His performance rocked the house. [=the audience loved his performance]
• The new video game will rock your world. [=you will really like the new video game]
4 [no obj] informal : to sing, dance to, or play rock music
• We were rocking all night long.
5 [no obj] slang : to be very enjoyable, pleasing, or effective
• Her new car really rocks. [=her new car is really great]
rock out [phrasal verb] informal : to play music in a loud or energetic way
• The band rocks out on their new album.
rock the boat
- see ¹boat
- rocking noun, pl -ings [count, noncount]
• a slow rocking

American English

British English

verb

outfit

outfit [noun] (CLOTHES)

a set of clothes worn for a particular occasion or activity

/ˈaʊt.fɪt/

Example:

I've got a cowboy outfit for the fancy dress party.

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English

outfit

I. out‧fit¹ /ˈaʊtfɪt/ BrE AmE noun [countable]
1. a set of clothes worn together, especially for a special occasion:
She bought a new outfit for the party.
a cowboy outfit
2. informal a group of people who work together as a team or organization:
My outfit was sent to Italy during the war.
a small advertising outfit in San Diego
3. British English a set of equipment that you need for a particular purpose or job SYN kit:
a tyre repair outfit

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

outfit

out·fit [outfit outfits outfitted outfitting] noun, verb [ˈaʊtfɪt] [ˈaʊtfɪt]

noun
1. countable a set of clothes that you wear together, especially for a particular occasion or purpose
• She was wearing an expensive new outfit.
• a wedding outfit

• a cowboy/Superman outfit (= one that you wear for fun in order to look like the type of person mentioned)

2. countable + singular or plural verb (informal) a group of people working together as an organization, business, team, etc
• a market research outfit

• This was the fourth album by the top rock outfit.

3. countable a set of equipment that you need for a particular purpose
• a bicycle repair outfit
Example Bank:
• He looked very smart in his new outfit.
• I'm looking for a necklace to complete my outfit.
• The pair arrived in matching white outfits.

• A London-based market research outfit has been appointed for the job.

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition

outfit / ˈaʊt.fɪt / noun [ C ] (CLOTHES)

a set of clothes worn for a particular occasion or activity:

I've got a cowboy outfit for the fancy dress party.

outfit / ˈaʊt.fɪt / noun [ C , + sing/pl verb ] informal (GROUP)

an organization, company, team, military unit, etc.:

He has recently set up his own research outfit.

Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary

outfit

[a͟ʊtfɪt]
outfits, outfitting, outfitted
1) N-COUNT An outfit is a set of clothes.
  She was wearing an outfit she'd bought the previous day...
  I spent lots of money on smart new outfits for work.
2) N-COUNT: oft supp N You can refer to an organization as an outfit.
  He works for a private security outfit...
  We are a professional outfit and we do require payment for our services.
  Syn:
  organization
3) VERB To outfit someone or something means to provide them with equipment for a particular purpose. [mainly AM]
  [V n with/as n] They outfitted him with artificial legs...
  [V n with/as n] I outfitted an attic bedroom as a studio. [Also V n]
  Syn:
  fit out

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary:

¹out·fit /ˈaʊtˌfɪt/ noun, pl -fits [count]
1 : a set of clothes that are worn together
• She bought a new outfit for the party.
• a cowboy/ski outfit
2 : a group of people working together in the same activity
• He works for a publishing outfit. [=organization]
• My outfit [=military unit] was stationed in Iraq during the war.

American English

British English

clothes worn for a particular job or activity

noun

superficial

superficial [adjective] (NOT IMPORTANT)

NOT IMPORTANT superficial changes, difficulties etc are not important and do not have a big effect SYN minor

/ˌsuː.pɚˈfɪʃ.əl/

/ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ.əl/

Example:

How many perfectly fine women are you gonna reject over the most superficial insignificant things?

media:

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English

superficial

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

superficial

• The book shows only a superficial understanding of the historical context.

2. appearing to be true, real or important until you look at it more carefully
• superficial differences/similarities

• When you first meet her, she gives a superficial impression of warmth and friendliness.

3. (of a wound or damage) only affecting the surface and therefore not serious
• a superficial injury

• superficial burns

• She's so superficial!

• Superficial similarities can be deceptive.

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition

superficial / ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ. ə l / / -pɚ- / adjective disapproving (NOT SERIOUS)

C2 (of a person) never thinking about things that are serious or important:

He's fun to be with, but he's very superficial.

superficiality / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ɪ.ti / / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ə.t̬i / noun [ U ]

superficially / -i / adverb

The job I've been offered is superficially (= seems to be) attractive/appealing, but I think I might find it boring after a while.

Religious education is poorly and superficially taught in most schools.

superficial / ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ. ə l / / -pɚ- / adjective usually disapproving (NOT COMPLETE)

C2 not complete and involving only the most obvious things:

I thought that article was written at a very superficial level.

The documentary's treatment/analysis of the issues was very superficial.

I only have a superficial (= slight) knowledge of French.

superficiality / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ɪ.ti / / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ə.t̬i / noun [ U ]

superficially / -i / adverb

The job I've been offered is superficially (= seems to be) attractive/appealing, but I think I might find it boring after a while.

Religious education is poorly and superficially taught in most schools.

superficial / ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ. ə l / / -pɚ- / adjective (FALSE APPEARANCE)

appearing to be real or important when this is not true or correct:

There are superficial similarities between the two cars, but actually they're quite different in terms of performance.

superficiality / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ɪ.ti / / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ə.t̬i / noun [ U ]

superficially / -i / adverb

The job I've been offered is superficially (= seems to be) attractive/appealing, but I think I might find it boring after a while.

Religious education is poorly and superficially taught in most schools.

superficial / ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ. ə l / / -pɚ- / adjective (ONLY ON SURFACE)

only on the surface of something:

superficial damage

The driver only received superficial injuries/cuts/wounds.

Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary

superficial

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary:

superficial

self-confidence

self-confidence [noun]

If you have self-confidence, you behave confidently because you feel sure of your abilities or value.

/ˌselfˈkɑːn.fə.dəns/

/ˌselfˈkɒn.fɪ.dəns/

Example:

Richard's self confidence is growing steadily.

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English

self-confidence

See main entry: ↑self-confident

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

self-confidence

ˌself-ˈconfidence ; noun uncountable

• He constantly tried to undermine her self-confidence.

• He has no self-confidence.

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition

ˌ self- ˈ confident / ˌselfˈkɒn.fɪ.d ə nt / / -ˈkɑːn- / adjective approving

B2 behaving calmly because you have no doubts about your ability or knowledge:

At school he was popular and self-confident, and we weren't surprised at his later success.

ˌ self- ˈ confidence / ˌselfˈkɒn.fɪ.d ə ns / / -ˈkɑːn- / noun [ U ]

ˌ self- ˈ confidently / ˌselfˈkɒn.fɪ.d ə nt.li / / -ˈkɑːn- / adverb

Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary

self-confidence

N-UNCOUNT
If you have self-confidence, you behave confidently because you feel sure of your abilities or value.
With the end of my love affair, I lost all the self-confidence I once had...
Richard's self confidence is growing steadily.
Syn:
self-assurance

American English

British English

confidence and self-assurance

B2 (Upper-intermediate)

noun

moment

moment [noun] (OCCASION)

a particular time or occasion

/ˈmoʊ.mənt/

/ˈməʊ.mənt/

Example:

When would be the best moment to tell the family?

Oxford Essential Dictionary

moment

noun
a very short time same meaning minute:
He thought for a moment before he answered.
Can you wait a moment?

at the moment now:
She's on holiday at the moment, but she'll be back next week.

in a moment very soon:
He'll be here in a moment.

the moment as soon as:
Tell Jim to phone me the moment he arrives.

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English

moment

mo‧ment S1 W1 /ˈməʊmənt $ ˈmoʊ-/ BrE AmE noun [countable]
[Word Family: noun: ↑moment, ↑momentum; adjective: ↑momentary, ↑momentous; adverb: ↑momentarily]
[Date: 1300-1400; Language: French; Origin: Latin momentum; ⇨ ↑momentum]
1. POINT IN TIME a particular point in time:
It was one of the most exciting moments in his life.
at this/that moment (=used for emphasis)
Just at that moment there was a knock on the door.
She may be in trouble at this very moment and trying to call you.
I remember the moment when I first saw him after the operation.
Quinn always seems to be in the right place at the crucial moment.
I just this moment (=only a very short time ago) arrived and already Dan wants to know when I’m leaving.
At this moment in time it would be inappropriate to comment on the situation.
From that moment on (=after that time) we were the best of friends.
► Do not say 'in that moment' when you mean ‘at that particular time’. Say at that moment: At that moment, everything stopped.
2. SHORT TIME a very short period of time:
He was here a moment ago.
Can you spare a few moments to answer some questions?
in a moment (=very soon)
I’ll come back to that point in a moment.
for a moment
It was quiet for a moment, then Rae spoke.
after a moment
‘I don’t understand,’ said Louise after a moment.
A moment later we heard a splash.
wait/just a moment (=used when you want someone to wait a short time while you do or say something)
Just a moment; let me put these away first.
We have to be ready to leave at a moment’s notice (=very quickly).
3. at the moment British English especially spoken, American English formal now:
Julia’s on holiday in Spain at the moment.
At the moment, the situation in Haiti is very tense.
4. for the moment used to say that something is happening or is true now but will probably change in the future:
Well, for the moment we’re just friends.
For the moment the rain had stopped.
5. the moment (that) somebody does something as soon as someone does something:
He said he’d phone you the moment he got home.
6. the last moment if you do something at the last moment or if something happens at the last moment, it happens at the last possible time
at the last moment
The operation was cancelled at the last moment.
She always leaves everything to the last moment.
7. (at) any moment extremely soon:
The plumber should be here any moment now.
The roof could collapse at any moment.
8. OPPORTUNITY [usually singular] a particular time when you have a chance to do something:
His wife Denise was there to share his big moment (=opportunity to do something great).
choose/pick your moment (=try to choose the best time to do something)
He picked his moment carefully to tell them the news.
This was her moment and she knew she had to take it.
9. moment of madness/weakness/panic etc a short period of time when you do not feel or behave as normal and often do or say something which you later wish you had not done or said
in a moment of something
In a moment of madness I agreed to go with him.
He experienced a brief moment of panic.
10. one moment ... the next/from one moment to the next used to say that a situation changes very suddenly, often in a way which you do not expect or cannot explain:
One moment she’s kissing me, the next she doesn’t want to see me again.
You never know what’s going to happen from one moment to the next.
11. not believe/think/do something for a/one moment especially spoken used to say that you did not believe, expect etc something at all:
He didn’t fool me for a moment.
She had never for one moment imagined that it could happen to her.
12. of the moment the person, idea, word etc of the moment is the one that is most important or popular at the present time:
They interview personalities on a topic of the moment.
the mood of the moment
13. have its/your moments to have periods of being good or interesting:
a movie that had its moments
14. not a moment too soon almost too late:
The ambulance finally arrived, and not a moment too soon.
15. the moment of truth the time when you will find out if something will work properly, be successful etc
16. of great moment old-fashioned important
• • •
COLLOCATIONS (for Meaning 1)
■ adjectives
▪ right/perfect I’m just waiting for the right moment to tell her. | The moment is not quite right just yet.
▪ an opportune moment (=a good time to do something) I was waiting for an opportune moment to leave.
▪ a historic moment (=a moment that is important in history) The fall of the Berlin wall was a historic moment.
▪ a memorable moment There have been many memorable moments in this year’s Olymics.
▪ the exact/precise moment Her stomach chose that precise moment to make a loud noise.
▪ the very moment (=used for emphasizing that something happened at a particular time) I could tell something was wrong from the very moment I walked in through the front door.
▪ the present moment (=now) At the present moment, there are 500 students at the school.
▪ an important moment This was probably the most important moment in his life.
▪ a critical/crucial moment (=a very important moment) This was a critical moment in the country’s history.
▪ a defining moment (=something that shows the real character or purpose of something) The win was a defining moment in the boxer’s career.
▪ sb’s finest moment (=when someone was most successful or admired) The performance was one of the band’s finest moments.
▪ sb’s proudest moment (=when someone did the thing they are most proud of) My proudest moment was when my daughter was born.
▪ the worst moment Standing on the edge waiting to do your bungee jump is the worst moment.
■ verbs
▪ capture the moment (=to take a picture, describe something etc that will remind you of a particular time) They captured the moment on film.
▪ enjoy the moment She found herself laughing with him, enjoying the moment.
▪ savour the moment (=enjoy the moment) He seemed to savour every moment of their conversation.
▪ relive the moment (=experience something again by thinking about it, talking about it etc) In court she had to relive the moment her son was murdered.
▪ choose a moment to do something (=do something at a particular time) She always seemed to choose the worst moment to interrupt his thoughts.
▪ dread a moment (=feel anxious or worried about something that will happen) She was dreading the moment when she would have to fire him.
■ phrases
▪ just this/that moment (=only a very short time ago) I had just that moment arrived.
▪ at this moment in time (=now) At this moment in time we cannot proceed with the proposal.
▪ from that moment on (=after that time) From that moment on I saw very little of Dean.
▪ moment to moment/moment by moment (=used for emphasizing that something changes quickly) The colours of the sunset changed moment to moment.
▪ every waking moment (=all the time you are awake) He spent every waking moment in the lab.
▪ at a given moment (=at any particular time) There was no variety at all - you knew exactly what you would be doing at any given moment of the week.
• • •
COLLOCATIONS (for Meaning 2)
■ verbs
▪ take a moment (=use a short time) Coleman took a moment to reply.
▪ have a moment (=have a short time to use) Can you come and see me when you have a moment?
▪ wait a moment Wait a moment while I get my coat.
▪ pause a moment (=stop speaking or doing something for a short time) Lisa paused a moment, then said 'yes'.
▪ hesitate a moment (=not speak or do something for a short time because you are unsure of what to say or do) Paul hesitated a moment then followed her.
▪ spare a moment (=used when asking someone if they have a short time available to spend with you) Can you spare a moment to go through some figures with me?
■ phrases
▪ just a moment (=used when telling someone to wait) Just a moment, I’ll go and get her.
▪ at a moment’s notice (=very quickly) Fire fighters need to be able to get ready at a moment’s notice.
▪ a moment ago I saw him outside just a moment ago.
▪ there’s never a dull moment (=something is always exciting or full of activity) There’s never a dull moment with Chris around!
■ adjectives
▪ a brief moment For a brief moment, he looked directly at her.
▪ a fleeting moment (=a very short time) For a fleeting moment she wanted to run away.
▪ a long moment He was silent for a long moment before replying.
▪ a spare moment (=short period of time when you are not doing other things) She spent every spare moment in the library.
• • •
THESAURUS
■ a time when something happens
▪ time a time when something happens or when you should do something: The last time I saw her she was in high school. | It’s time for you to go to bed. | The best time to visit Scotland is in late May.
▪ occasion a time when something happens. Occasion is more formal than time: They have been seen together on several occasions. | The last occasion the two teams met, the Giants won easily.
▪ moment a particular point in time when something happens: At that moment (=at exactly that time), the door bell rang. | The next moment she was gone.
▪ point a particular time during a longer period of time: At one point during the play she completely forgot her lines. | the lowest point of the holiday

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

moment

mo·ment [moment moments] [ˈməʊmənt] [ˈmoʊmənt] noun
1. a very short period of time
• Could you wait a moment, please?
• One moment, please (= Please wait a short time).
• He thought for a moment before replying.
• I'll be back in a moment.
• We arrived not a moment too soon (= almost too late).
• Moments later (= a very short time later), I heard a terrible crash.

see also senior moment

2. singular an exact point in time
• We're busy at the moment (= now).
• I agreed in a moment of weakness.
• At that very moment, the phone rang.

• From that moment on, she never felt really well again.

3. countable a particular occasion; a time for doing sth
• I'm waiting for the right moment to tell him the bad news.
• That was one of the happiest moments of my life.
• Have I caught you at a bad moment?
more at the evil hour/day/moment at evil, just a minute/moment/second at just _adv., the last minute/moment at last _det., at a moment's notice at notice _n., the psychological moment at psychological, on the spur of the moment at spur _n., wait a minute/moment/second at wait _v.
Idioms: any moment ▪ at this moment in time ▪ for the moment ▪ have its moments ▪ moment of truth ▪ moment … ▪ not for a moment ▪ of moment ▪ of the moment
Word Origin:
late Middle English: from Latin momentum, from movimentum, from movere ‘to move’.
Thesaurus:
moment noun
1. C
• He thought for a moment before replying.
minute • • second • • instant • • split second • |especially BrE, especially spoken bit • |informal, spoken sec •
in/for a/an moment/minute/instant/second/split second/bit/sec
at/from that moment/minute/second/instant
hang on/hold on/wait a moment/minute/second/sec
Moment, minute or second? In many cases you can use any of these words
• Wait/Hang on/Just a moment/minute/second.
Minute is the most frequent in spoken English; it is more usual to use moment in written English, especially when telling a story.
2. sing.
• At that very moment, the phone rang.
instant • • point • • hour • • time • • occasion •
a moment/the point/sb's hour/a time of sth
at the moment/that instant/that point/the time
for the moment/time/occasion
the very/precise moment/instant/hour/time
3. C (especially spoken)
• I'm waiting for the right moment to tell him the bad news.
chance • • opportunity • • occasion • |especially business window •
a suitable moment/opportunity/occasion
have a/an moment/chance/opportunity/occasion
wait for the moment/a chance/an opportunity/an occasion
Example Bank:
• A moment later, the ceiling fell in.
• After a moment we followed him.
• Afterwards she relived every moment in her head.
• At that very moment the phone rang.
• At the present moment, we do not have a choice.
• Could you look through this report when you have a spare moment?
• Could you wait a few moments?
• For one heart-stopping moment, we thought she was going to fall.
• He might wake up at any moment.
• He opened his mouth to say he loved her, but the moment passed.
• He was here just a moment ago.
• He's in a bad mood today— you need to choose your moment carefully.
• Her finest moment came when she won Wimbledon.
• Her finest moment came when she won the Nobel Prize.
• I can only spare you a moment, I'm afraid— I'm terribly busy.
• I couldn't stand it a moment longer.
• I didn't want to screw up my big moment.
• I don't expect to spend every waking moment at work.
• I don't think this is the right moment to ask for a bonus.
• I dread the moment when she finds out.
• I felt at home here from the very moment I arrived.
• I loved her from the first moment I met her.
• I managed to capture the moment on film.
• I spent a few moments thinking what I was going to say.
• I stood there for a moment or two.
• I treasure the moments we spent together.
• I'll be back in a moment.
• In the heat of the moment she forgot what she wanted to say.
• It was a bad time to have a senior moment.
• It was the proudest moment of my entire life.
• She let the news slip by mistake, in an unguarded moment.
• She paused a moment to reflect.
• That was a bad moment in my life.
• The feeling only lasted a moment.
• The moment had finally come to make a move.
• There was a moment of silence.
• There's never a dull moment in this job.
• They were making the most of those last precious moments together.
• This is one of the book's funniest moments.
• This won't take a moment.
• Victory was sweet, and he wanted to savour every moment.
• We have reached a critical moment in the negotiations.
• Why do you leave it until the last possible moment before getting ready to leave?
• You need to be aware of what you are doing at any given moment.
• a great moment in the country's history
• at the moment of death
• in her rare moments of leisure
• Could you wait a moment, please?
• From that moment on, she never felt really well again.
• I haven't finished. I'm still waiting for a quiet moment.
• I'm waiting for the right moment to tell him the bad news.
• Moments later, I heard a terrible crash.
• One moment, please.
• We arrived not a moment too soon.

• We're busy at the moment.

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition

moment / ˈməʊ.mənt / / ˈmoʊ- / noun (OCCASION)

B1 [ C ] a particular time or occasion:

When would be the best moment to tell the family?

Don't leave it to/till the last moment (= the latest time possible) .

If you want a private conversation with her you'll have to choose your moment (= find a suitable time) .

The moment (that) (= as soon as) I get the money I'll send the ticket.

at the moment A2 now:

I'm afraid she's not here at the moment.

for the moment B2 If you do something for the moment, you are doing it now, but might do something different in the future:

Let's carry on with what we agreed for the moment.

at this moment in time formal now:

I can give no information at this precise moment in time.

moment / ˈməʊ.mənt / / ˈmoʊ- / noun [ C ] (SHORT TIME)

A2 a very short period of time:

Can you wait a moment?

I'll be ready in just a moment.

A car drew up outside and a few moments later the doorbell rang.

I'm expecting her to come at any moment (= very soon) .

Have you got a moment (= are you busy or have you got time to speak to me) ?

moment / ˈməʊ.mənt / / ˈmoʊ- / noun (IMPORTANCE)

of (great) moment formal very important:

a decision of great moment

→ See also momentous

Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary

moment

[mo͟ʊmənt]
♦
moments
1) N-COUNT You can refer to a very short period of time, for example a few seconds, as a moment or moments.
  In a moment he was gone...
  She stared at him a moment, then turned away...
  Stop for one moment and think about it!...
  In moments, I was asleep once more.
  Syn:
  minute, second
2) N-COUNT: with supp A particular moment is the point in time at which something happens.
  At this moment a car stopped at the house...
  Many people still remember the moment when they heard that President Kennedy had been assassinated.
  ...a decision that may have been made in a moment of panic.
  Syn:
  instant
3) PHRASE (emphasis) If you say that something will or may happen at any moment or any moment now, you are emphasizing that it is likely to happen very soon.
  They ran the risk of being shot at any moment...
  He'll be here to see you any moment now.
  Syn:
  at any minute
4) PHRASE You use expressions such as at the moment, at this moment, and at the present moment to indicate that a particular situation exists at the time when you are speaking.
  At the moment, no one is talking to me...
  This is being planned at the present moment...
  He's touring South America at this moment in time.
  Syn:
  now, currently
5) PHRASE: with brd-neg, PHR with v (emphasis) If you say that you do not believe for a moment or for one moment that something is true, you are emphasizing that you do not believe that it could possibly be true.
  I don't for a moment think there'll be a divorce.
  Syn:
  for a minute
6) PHRASE: PHR with cl You use for the moment to indicate that something is true now, even if it will not be true in the future.
  For the moment, however, the government is happy to live with it.
  Syn:
  for now
7) PHRASE: V inflects If you say that someone or something has their moments, you are indicating that there are times when they are successful or interesting, but that this does not happen very often.
  The film has its moments...
  He's not the thoroughly outgoing character you'd predict, although he has his moments.
8) PHRASE: prep PHR If someone does something at the last moment, they do it at the latest time possible.
  They changed their minds at the last moment and refused to go.
  Syn:
  the last minute
9) PHRASE (emphasis) You use the expression the next moment, or expressions such as `one moment he was there , the next he was gone', to emphasize that something happens suddenly, especially when it is very different from what was happening before.
  The next moment there was an almighty crash...
  He is unpredictable, weeping one moment, laughing the next.
  Syn:
  the next minute
10) PHRASE: n PHR You use of the moment to describe someone or something that is or was especially popular at a particular time, especially when you want to suggest that their popularity is unlikely to last long or did not last long.
  He's the man of the moment, isn't he?...
  He calls it a `contraption', using his favourite word of the moment.
11) PHRASE: PHR that (emphasis) If you say that something happens the moment something else happens, you are emphasizing that it happens immediately after the other thing.
  The moment I closed my eyes, I fell asleep.
  Syn:
  the minute, as soon as
12) spur of the moment → see spur

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary:

moment

mo·ment /ˈmoʊmənt/ noun, pl -ments
1 [count] : a very short period of time
• The sunshine that was here a moment [=minute, second] ago is gone.
• The sun was shining. Moments later, it began to rain.
• It was a moment before she realized what had happened.
• She stopped for a moment and peeked into the window.
• It should only take a moment to fix the problem.
• Do you have a (spare) moment? [=do you have some free time so we can talk to each other briefly?]
• I'm very busy and I don't have a moment to spare.
• The doctor arrived not a moment too soon. [=the doctor arrived just in time to help]
• I'll explain that in a moment. [=shortly, soon]
• The crowd observed a moment of silence [=a short period of silent thought or prayer] for those who died in the tragedy.
2 [count] : a particular time : a precise point in time
• One moment it was sunny; the next it was pouring rain.
• We enjoyed every moment of the play. [=we enjoyed all of the play]
• The moment for us to act has arrived.
• The moment is ripe for action. [=this is the right time for action]
• War seemed unavoidable at that moment in history.
• She knew exactly the right moment to ask for a raise.
• We had an exciting vacation. There was never a dull moment.
3 a [noncount] : the present time
• At the moment [=right now, at the current time] she is working on a novel.
• We aren't prepared at this moment [=at this time, now] to say what our plans are.
• As of this moment [=as of now, right now], there's nothing you can do.
✦Something that is true for the moment is true now but might not be true for long.
• For the moment, it is the world's largest city. [=it is the world's largest city now, but that may not be true much longer]
• He's staying out of trouble for the moment.
• For the moment, at least, I had the room to myself.
✦Someone or something that is of the moment is very popular at a particular time.
• the vacation destination of the moment [=the vacation destination that is now most popular]
• the man/woman of the moment [=the man/woman who is now very popular and admired]
b [count] : a time of importance or success
• She took the time to relish her moment of triumph.
• He's not the best player on the team, but he has his moments. [=he has times when he is extremely good, successful, etc.]
• It was a defining moment for him.
• It was a crowning moment in his presidency.
any moment
✦If something could happen (at) any moment (now), it could happen very soon.
• He could lose his temper at any moment.
• The war could begin at any moment.
• She should be arriving at any moment now.
at/on a moment's notice
- see ¹notice
from moment to moment or from one moment to the next or moment by moment : very quickly as time passes
• The weather kept changing from one moment to the next. = The weather kept changing from moment to moment. [=from minute to minute]
hold/hang on a moment or wait/just a moment informal
- used to tell someone to wait or to stop for a brief time
• “Aren't you finished yet?” “Hold on a moment. I'm almost done.”
• Hang on a moment—I don't understand.
moment of truth : the time when you have to do or decide something
• The moment of truth came early, when we had to decide whether to stay or go.
• It was her moment of truth, when she needed to show that she had the talent to succeed.
not for a/one moment : at no time : not at all
• I did not believe her for one moment. [=I never believed her]
of moment formal : having importance
• an event of great moment [=a very important event]
• There is no news of any moment to report.
on the spur of the moment
- see ¹spur
the last moment : the latest possible time : the last minute
• Our flight was canceled at the last moment.
• She finished her paper at the last moment.
• Many people wait until the last (possible) moment before shopping for Christmas presents.
the moment : as soon as
• The moment the cameras are turned off, he is able to relax.
• Everything stops the moment she walks in the room.
within moments : very quickly : within a very short amount of time
• Within moments, dozens of people had gathered.

beauty

beauty [noun] (BEING BEAUTIFUL)

the quality of being pleasing, especially to look at, or someone or something that gives great pleasure, especially when you look at it

/ˈbjuː.t̬i/

/ˈbjuː.ti/

Example:

This is an area of outstanding natural beauty.

Oxford Essential Dictionary

beauty

noun (no plural)
the quality of being beautiful:
She was a woman of great beauty.
the beauty of the mountains

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English

beauty

beau‧ty S3 W2 /ˈbjuːti/ BrE AmE noun (plural beauties)
[Word Family: noun: ↑beautician, ↑beauty; adverb: ↑beautifully; adjective: ↑beautiful]
[Date: 1200-1300; Language: Old French; Origin: biauté, from bel, biau 'beautiful', from Latin bellus 'pretty']
1. APPEARANCE [uncountable] a quality that people, places, or things have that makes them very attractive to look at:
her beauty and grace
an area of outstanding natural beauty
Millions of dollars are spent each year on beauty products.
2. WOMAN [countable] a woman who is very beautiful:
She was considered a great beauty in her youth.
3. POEM/MUSIC/EMOTION ETC [uncountable] a quality that something such as a poem, song, emotion etc has that gives you pleasure or joy
beauty of
the beauty of Shakespeare’s verse
4. ADVANTAGE the beauty of something a particularly good quality that makes something especially suitable or useful:
The beauty of e-mail is its speed and ease of use.
5. [countable] spoken a very good, large etc example of something:
You should have seen the boat – a real beauty.
6. beauty is in the eye of the beholder used to say that different people have different opinions about what is beautiful
7. beauty is only skin-deep used to say that how someone looks is not as important as a good character
• • •
THESAURUS
▪ beauty the quality of being very attractive to look at - used about people, objects, and places: She was greatly admired for her beauty and intelligence. | the natural beauty of the landscape. | The Ancient Greeks created statues of outstanding beauty and dignity.
▪ sb’s good looks someone’s attractive appearance, especially their face and features: With his dark good looks, Jason could have been a film star.
▪ glamour an exciting quality which makes someone or something seem attractive and connected with wealth and success: Men loved her for her beauty and her glamour. | Add a black lace top for a touch of glamour.
▪ aesthetic adjective connected with beauty and the study of beauty: The aesthetic value of their work is easy to appreciate. | the declining aesthetic standards of our civiliization | The aesthetic qualities in a Buddhist sculpture are similar to those in any other work of art.

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

beauty

beauty [beauty beauties] [ˈbjuːti] [ˈbjuːti] noun (pl. beauties)
1. uncountable the quality of being pleasing to the senses or to the mind
• the beauty of the sunset/of poetry/of his singing
• a woman of great beauty
• The woods were designated an area of outstanding natural beauty.
• beauty products/treatment (= intended to make a person more beautiful)

• The sheer beauty of the scenery took my breath away.

2. countable a person or thing that is beautiful

• She had been a beauty in her day.

3. countable an excellent example of its type

• That last goal was a beauty!

4. countable a pleasing feature
Syn: advantage
• One of the beauties of living here is that it's so peaceful.
• The project will require very little work to start up; that's the beauty of it.
Idioms: beauty is in the eye of the beholder ▪ beauty is only skin-deep
Word Origin:
Middle English: from Old French beaute, based on Latin bellus ‘beautiful, fine’.
Example Bank:
• He met a blonde beauty named Cindy.
• Her art challenges conventions of feminine beauty.
• Her beauty faded as she got older.
• Isn't she a little beauty?
• My new car's a real beauty!
• She was a contestant in the Miss World beauty pageant.
• She was known as a great beauty in her time.
• She was still a radiant beauty.
• She works in a beauty salon.
• The beauty of the city amazed her.
• The film argues that inner beauty, not physical appearance, is most important.
• The film-maker magnificently captures the beauty of the changing seasons.
• There is a stark beauty to the desert terrain.
• They took a walk, enjoying the beauty of the landscape.
• They were captivated by the ethereal beauty of the music.
• an area of breathtaking beauty
• an exotic beauty with raven hair
• the classical beauty of her face
• the timeless beauty of this ancient landscape
• She was a woman of great beauty.
• The woods were designated an area of outstanding natural beauty.
• We all admired the beauty of the sunset.

• We stock a wide range of beauty products.

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition

beauty / ˈbjuː.ti / / -t̬i / noun (BEING BEAUTIFUL)

B1 [ C or U ] the quality of being pleasing, especially to look at, or someone or something that gives great pleasure, especially when you look at it:

This is an area of outstanding natural beauty.

The piece of music he played had a haunting beauty.

beauty products/treatments

She was a great beauty (= a beautiful woman) when she was young.

Word partners for beauty

natural / physical beauty • great / outstanding / sheer / stunning beauty • beauty products / treatments • beauty secrets / tips • a thing of beauty • the beauty of sth

Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary

beauty

[bju͟ːti]
♦♦♦
beauties
1) N-UNCOUNT Beauty is the state or quality of being beautiful.
  ...an area of outstanding natural beauty...
  Everyone admired her elegance and her beauty.
2) N-COUNT A beauty is a beautiful woman. [JOURNALISM]
  She is known as a great beauty.
  Syn:
  belle
3) N-COUNT You can say that something is a beauty when you think it is very good. [INFORMAL]
  It was the one opportunity in the game - the pass was a real beauty, but the shot was poor.
  Syn:
  peach
4) N-COUNT: usu pl, with supp The beauties of something are its attractive qualities or features. [LITERARY]
  He was beginning to enjoy the beauties of nature.
  Syn:
  glories
5) ADJ: ADJ n Beauty is used to describe people, products, and activities that are concerned with making women look beautiful.
  Additional beauty treatments can be booked in advance.
6) N-COUNT: usu the N of n If you say that a particular feature is the beauty of something, you mean that this feature is what makes the thing so good.
  There would be no effect on animals - that's the beauty of such water-based materials.
  Syn:
  boon

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary:

beauty

beau·ty /ˈbjuːti/ noun, pl -ties
1 [noncount] : the quality of being physically attractive
• Her beauty is beyond compare. [=she is very beautiful; no one is as beautiful as she is]
- sometimes used before another noun
• beauty products [=soaps, makeup, and other things that help make people more physically attractive]
• a beauty treatment
2 : the qualities in a person or a thing that give pleasure to the senses or the mind

[noncount]

• the beauty [=loveliness] of the stars
• We explored the natural beauty of the island.
• I'm learning to appreciate the beauty of poetry.
• We have different ideas/notions/conceptions of beauty. [=different opinions about what makes things beautiful]
• “A thing of beauty is a joy for ever…” John Keats, Endymion (1818) -

[plural]

• We explored the natural beauties of the island.
3 [count] : a beautiful woman
• She was one of the great beauties of her time.
• She was no beauty.
4 [count] informal : a very good thing : a very good example of something
• That was a beauty of a fight. [=that was an excellent fight]
• Dad and I went fishing and we caught a couple of beauties.
- often used in an ironic way to describe a bad thing or person
• That mistake was a beauty.
5 : a good or appealing part of something

[noncount]

• The beauty of the game is that everyone can play.
• No one knows when it's going to happen, and that's the beauty of it!

[count]

• One of the beauties of the system is that it allows you to adjust the schedule easily.

American English

British English

beauty and attractiveness

B1 (Intermediate)

noun

hospital

hospital [noun]

a place where people who are ill or injured are treated and taken care of by doctors and nurses

/ˈhɑː.spɪ.t̬əl/

/ˈhɒs.pɪ.təl/

Example:

He is receiving hospital treatment.

Oxford Essential Dictionary

hospital

noun
a place where doctors and nurses look after people who are ill or hurt:
My brother is in hospital – he's broken his leg.
The ambulance took her to hospital.

word building
If you are very ill or you have an accident you go to hospital (Be careful! In British English, you do not say to the hospital). A doctor gives you treatment and you are called a patient. You might need to have an operation. The room in a hospital where people sleep is called a ward.

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English

hospital

hos‧pi‧tal S1 W1 /ˈhɒspɪtl $ ˈhɑː-/ BrE AmE noun [uncountable and countable]
[Date: 1200-1300; Language: Old French; Origin: Medieval Latin hospitale 'place to stay at', from Latin hospitalis 'of a guest', from hospes; ⇨ ↑host¹]
a large building where sick or injured people receive medical treatment:
They are building a new hospital.
in hospital British English:
She visited him in hospital.
in the hospital American English:
Two people are in the hospital with serious burns.
• • •
COLLOCATIONS
■ verbs
▪ go to hospital British English, go to the hospital American English The pain got worse and she had to go to the hospital.
▪ be taken/rushed/airlifted to hospital British English, be taken/rushed/airlifted to the hospital American English Three people were taken to hospital after a crash on the motorway.
▪ be admitted to hospital British English, be admitted to the hospital American English He was admitted to hospital suffering from chest pain.
▪ leave/come out of hospital British English, leave/come out of the hospital American English Her mother never left the hospital.
▪ be discharged/released from hospital British English, be discharged/released from the hospital American English (=be allowed to leave a hospital because you are better) It was several weeks before he was released from hospital.
■ ADJECTIVES/NOUN + hospital
▪ a psychiatric hospital (also a mental hospital old-fashioned) (=for people with mental illnesses) He was admitted to a secure psychiatric hospital.
▪ a children’s hospital an important children’s hospital
▪ a maternity hospital British English (=for women having babies) Many maternity hospitals have been forced to close.
■ hospital + NOUN
▪ hospital treatment/care What do older people think of hospital care?
▪ a hospital stay (=the period someone spends in hospital) New surgical techniques mean a hospital stay of less than 48 hours.
▪ a hospital bed There is a shortage of hospital beds.
▪ a hospital ward/room nurses working on hospital wards
• • •
THESAURUS
▪ hospital a large building where sick or injured people receive medical treatment: He was taken by ambulance to the local hospital. | the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford | a mental hospital
▪ medical center American English a large hospital, which often has many different departments, including areas for research: a discovery by doctors at the New England Medical Center
▪ clinic a place, often in a hospital, where medical treatment and advice is given to people who do not need to stay in a hospital: a family-planning clinic (=which gives people help and advice about birth control) | a special clinic for people with drug and alcohol problems
▪ hospice a special hospital for people who are dying: They are hoping to raise funds to build a hospice for sick and dying children.
▪ nursing home/old people's home (also home) a place where people who are old and ill can live and be looked after, by nurses: She doesn't want to end up in a nursing home.
▪ sanatorium a place where people recovering after a long illness were sent in the past, so that they could rest and receive special care: He was sent to a sanatorium in the Swiss Alps.
■ parts of a hospital
▪ A&E/casualty British English, emergency room/ER American English the part of a hospital where people who are injured or who need urgent treatment are brought: A&E waiting times have gone down. | A 33-year-old man was brought to the emergency room in a coma.
▪ operating theatre British English, operating room American English a room in a hospital where operations are done: Mrs Barnett was in the operating theatre for 11 hours while the transplant was carried out.
▪ intensive care the part of a hospital where people who are very seriously ill or badly injured are cared for: Mr Dye is in intensive care with head injuries.
▪ unit part of a hospital where a particular kind of treatment is carried out: the burns unit | the fertility unit
▪ ward a large room in a hospital where people who need medical treatment stay: the women's ward | She works as a nurse on a busy hospital ward.

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

hospital

hos·pital [hospital hospitals] [ˈhɒspɪtl] [ˈhɑːspɪtl] noun
a large building where people who are ill/sick or injured are given medical treatment and care: (BrE) He had to go to hospital for treatment.
• (NAmE) He had to go to the hospital for treatment.
• to be admitted to (the) hospital
• to be discharged from (the) hospital
• The injured were rushed to (the) hospital in an ambulance.
• He died in (the) hospital.
• I'm going to the hospital to visit my brother.
• a psychiatric/mental hospital
• hospital doctors/nurses/staff
• There is an urgent need for more hospital beds.
see also cottage hospital
Word Origin:
Middle English (originally meaning a hospice run by the Knights Hospitallers in the 11th century): via Old French from medieval Latin hospitale, neuter of Latin hospitalis ‘hospitable’, from hospes, hospit- ‘host, guest’.
Thesaurus:
hospital noun C
• I'm going to the hospital to visit my brother.
infirmary • • clinic • • hospice • • sanatorium • |AmE medical center •
a private hospital/clinic/hospice/sanatorium/medical center
a/an eye/maternity/psychiatric hospital/clinic
go to/visit (the) hospital/a clinic
British/American:
hospital
In BrE you say to hospital or in hospital when you talk about somebody being there as a patient: ▪ I had to go to hospital. ◊ ▪ She spent two weeks in hospital.
In NAmE you need to use the: ▪ I had to go to the hospital. ◊ ▪ She spent two weeks in the hospital.
Example Bank:
• He has been readmitted to hospital.
• He is in hospital recovering from a heart operation.
• He was taken to hospital as a precaution.
• He's been taken to hospital for tests.
• He's had to go into hospital rather suddenly.
• How long will I have to stay in hospital?
• I used to work as a cleaner in a hospital.
• She came out of hospital this morning.
• She was rushed to hospital.
• She works at the John Radcliffe Hospital.
• We went to the hospital to visit my gran.
• He died in hospital.
• He was admitted to hospital complaining of chest pains.
• His delusions got worse until he was committed to a mental hospital.
• I had to go to hospital.
• I'm going to the hospital to visit my brother.
• She was discharged from hospital and allowed to go home.
• The injured were rushed to the hospital in an ambulance.

• There is a shortage of hospital beds.

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition

hospital / ˈhɒs.pɪ.t ə l / / ˈhɑː.spɪ.t̬ ə l / noun [ C or U ]

A1 a place where people who are ill or injured are treated and taken care of by doctors and nurses:

a general/children's/maternity hospital

hospital patients/staff

UK I've got to go (in)to hospital ( US to the hospital) to have an operation.

UK She spent a week in hospital ( US in the hospital) last year.

Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary

hospital

[hɒ̱spɪt(ə)l]
♦
hospitals
N-VAR
A hospital is a place where people who are ill are looked after by nurses and doctors.
  Queen Elizabeth Hospital is a children's hospital with 120 beds...
  A couple of weeks later my mother went into hospital...
  He may be able to leave hospital early next week.

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary:

hospital

hos·pi·tal /ˈhɑːspɪtl̩/ noun, pl -tals [count] : a place where sick or injured people are given care or treatment and where children are often born
• (US) She's in the hospital. = (Brit) She's in hospital.
• (US) She was admitted to the hospital yesterday. = (Brit) She was admitted to hospital yesterday. [=she was hospitalized yesterday]
• (US) She'll be discharged from the hospital tomorrow. = (Brit) She'll be discharged from hospital tomorrow.
- often used before another noun
• hospital beds
• a hospital gown

American English

British English

medical places and organizations

A1 (Basic)

noun

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British English

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