air
- 01 A1 Beginner
n.the mixture of gases that surrounds the Earth and that we breathe.
n.the gaseous substance constituting the Earth's atmosphere, primarily nitrogen and oxygen. Uncountable in this general sense.
Simple“I stepped outside to get some fresh air after the long meeting.”
In context“The high altitude meant the air was thin, making it difficult for the climbers to maintain their pace without supplemental oxygen.”
Synonyms - 02 A2 Elementary
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.the way a person looks or behaves that gives a certain impression.
n.the outward appearance, manner, or carriage of a person, or the character of a place.
Simple“He had an air of confidence that made everyone trust him.”
In context“She walked into the boardroom with an air of quiet authority that immediately silenced the bickering executives.”
- 04 C1 Advanced
- 05 B1 Intermediate
n.the system used to send out radio or television signals.
n.the medium through which radio and television signals are transmitted.
Simple“The radio station went off the air due to a power cut.”
In context“The interview was pulled from the air just minutes before it was scheduled to begin due to legal concerns.”
- 06 B1 Intermediate
v.to let fresh air into a room or to dry clothes outside.
v.to expose something to the open air for the purpose of freshening, drying, or ventilating.
Simple“Open the windows to air the room out after you finish painting.”
In context“She hung the damp linens on the line to air them in the afternoon breeze.”
- 07 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to tell people your opinions or complaints.
v.to make opinions, grievances, or ideas known to the public.
Simple“The meeting gave employees a chance to air their concerns.”
In context“The town hall meeting provided a forum for residents to air their grievances regarding the proposed highway expansion.”
- 08 B1 Intermediate
v.to show a programme on television or play it on the radio.
v.to transmit a programme by radio or television. Can be used transitively or intransitively.
Simple“The final episode will air next Tuesday at 8 p.m.”
In context“The documentary is set to air nationwide, reaching an estimated audience of five million viewers on its premiere night.”
- 09 C1 Advanced
v.to ignore someone on purpose, especially by not replying to their messages.
v.to intentionally ignore a person, particularly by failing to respond to digital communication.
Simple“I can't believe he aired my text for three days.”
In context“After their argument at the party, she completely aired him on all social media platforms.”
Teacher's tipThis usage is specific to Multicultural London English (MLE) and youth slang; it may not be understood by older speakers or those outside the UK.
Antonyms
Usage air conditioning · air quality · air pollution