capped
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to set a maximum limit on an amount of money or a number.
v.to place an upper limit on a price, rate, or quantity. Often used in passive constructions regarding finance or policy.
Simple“The government capped energy prices to help families with their monthly bills.”
In context“The regulatory body capped the interest rates that lenders could charge, aiming to protect vulnerable consumers from predatory debt cycles.”
UsageOften used in the passive voice: 'The budget was capped at five million dollars.'
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to put a lid or a cover on the top of something.
v.to provide a fitting or protective covering for the top or end of an object.
Simple“She capped the bottle tightly so the juice wouldn't spill in her bag.”
In context“The engineers capped the abandoned oil well with a heavy steel plate to prevent any further environmental leakage into the surrounding soil.”
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.having a cover on top, or having a fixed limit that cannot be passed.
adj.characterised by a physical cap or a predetermined maximum threshold.
Simple“The snow-capped mountains looked beautiful in the early morning sun.”
In context“The investment offers a capped return, meaning you cannot earn more than a specific percentage regardless of market performance.”
- 04 C1 Advanced
v.to finish an event with something even better or more impressive.
v.to follow or conclude an event with a final, often superior, action or achievement.
Simple“He capped his amazing performance by winning the gold medal.”
In context“The team capped a remarkable season by securing the championship title in a dramatic final match that went into overtime.”
Teacher's tipThis sense is often used to describe a 'crowning achievement' or a final positive touch to a series of events.
“He has been capped by his country at every age group and was in the same under-16s team as Jude Bellingham.”
“Torp capped the scoring, thrashing the spot-kick into the top corner.”