compact
- 01 B1 Intermediate
adj.small and designed to fit into a little space.
adj.having all necessary features or parts fitting neatly into a small volume or space.
Simple“The new laptop is very compact and fits easily into my backpack.”
In context“The architect designed a compact living area that managed to include a full kitchen and a workspace without feeling cramped.”
UsageUsually precedes the noun it describes.
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.closely packed together or very solid.
adj.closely and firmly packed together; having high density.
Simple“The snow was so compact that we could walk on top of it.”
In context“The geologist explained that the compact layers of sedimentary rock had been formed over millions of years of intense pressure.”
SynonymsAntonyms - 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to press something together so that it becomes smaller or harder.
v.to exert pressure on a substance so that it becomes more dense or occupies less space.
Simple“The machine compacts the waste into small cubes for recycling.”
In context“Before laying the foundation, the construction crew used heavy machinery to compact the soil and ensure a stable base for the building.”
UsageThis is a transitive verb requiring a direct object.
- 04 C1 Advanced
n.a formal promise or agreement between two or more people or groups.
n.a formal agreement or contract between different parties, often used in political or legal contexts.
Simple“The two nations signed a compact to protect the shared river.”
In context“The Mayflower Compact served as an early social contract, establishing a rudimentary form of self-government for the settlers in the new colony.”
UsageOften used with the verb 'to sign' or 'to enter into'.
- 05 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a small case with a mirror and face powder that you carry in a bag.
n.a small, portable case containing a mirror and cosmetic powder, typically designed for use in a handbag.
Simple“She took a small compact out of her purse to check her lipstick.”
In context“The vintage silver compact was an heirloom passed down from her grandmother, still containing the original glass mirror.”
Synonymscasevanity case
“The compact, extremely distant red sources appear throughout the early universe, but their true nature has remained difficult to explain.”
“Ultimately, Smith argues, this process could yield a technology so compact that it will essentially disappear from the map of the cosmos.”