English Reference
noun · verb

cards

n. · v.
US /ˈkɑɹdz/ UK /kˈɑːdz/ cards

  1. 01 A1 Beginner

    n.small, rectangular pieces of stiff paper with numbers and pictures used for playing games.

    n.a set of rectangular pieces of cardstock used as the primary equipment for various games of chance or skill.

    Simple

    He shuffled the cards carefully before dealing them to the other players.

    In context

    The magician asked a volunteer to pick one of the cards from the deck and remember its suit without showing anyone else.

  2. 02 A2 Elementary

    n.games that you play using a deck of cards.

    n.the activity or pastime of playing games with a deck of cards.

    Simple

    We stayed up late playing cards and drinking tea in the kitchen.

    In context

    They spent their Friday evenings playing cards for small stakes, enjoying the social interaction more than the competition itself.

  3. 03 B1 Intermediate Sport

    n.yellow or red pieces of plastic a referee shows to players who break the rules.

    n.coloured cards shown by a referee to indicate a formal caution or a dismissal from the field of play.

    Simple

    The referee handed out three yellow cards during the second half of the match.

    In context

    After a series of aggressive fouls, the official had no choice but to start issuing cards to regain control of the game.

  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate American EnglishInformal

    v.to ask someone to show their official ID to prove how old they are.

    v.to verify a person's age by requesting to see their official identification card, typically in a venue serving alcohol.

    Simple

    The security guard cards everyone who looks under thirty at the entrance.

    In context

    The bar has a strict policy where the staff cards every patron regardless of their apparent age to ensure total compliance with local laws.

    Usage

    The verb is transitive and takes a person as the direct object.

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This entry
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Common
Updated