ashes
- 01 B1 Intermediate
the soft grey powder that is left after a fire has finished burning.
the solid remains of a fire, consisting of the non-combustible mineral components of the fuel.
Simple“He carefully cleaned the cold ashes out of the fireplace the next morning.”
In context“Volcanic ashes covered the surrounding farmland, creating a thick layer of grey dust that choked the local vegetation.”
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
the remains of a person's body after it has been burned (cremated).
the cremated remains of a human body, often kept in an urn or scattered in a significant location.
Simple“The family decided to scatter his ashes in the ocean as he had requested.”
In context“According to the deceased's final wishes, his ashes were interred in the family plot beneath the ancient oak tree.”
UsageAlways used in the plural form in this context.
Synonyms - 03 C1 Advanced
a famous cricket competition played between England and Australia.
The name of the biennial Test cricket series played between England and Australia.
Simple“England and Australia are currently competing for the Ashes this summer.”
In context“The captain's primary objective for the season was to reclaim the Ashes after a disappointing tour of Australia the previous year.”
UsageAlways capitalized and preceded by 'the'.