equipment
- 01 A2 Elementary
the tools, machines, or other items you need for a particular job or activity.
the set of physical resources, tools, or apparatus required for a specific purpose or activity.
Simple“The hikers checked their camping equipment one last time before heading into the woods.”
In context“The laboratory was outfitted with state-of-the-art medical equipment, allowing the researchers to conduct highly sensitive genetic sequencing.”
UsageThis noun is uncountable and takes a singular verb.
Teacher's tipLearners frequently try to pluralise this word. Remind them to use 'pieces of equipment' if they need to count individual items.
PitfallWe bought some new equipments for the gym. We bought some new equipment for the gym.Equipment is uncountable. Do not add an 's' or use 'an' with it; use 'some equipment' or 'a piece of equipment' instead.
- 02 C1 Advanced
a slang word for a man's private parts.
a euphemistic or humorous reference to the male genitalia.
Simple“He made a silly joke about his 'equipment' after the gym shower.”
In context“The comedian relied on crude double entendres regarding his physical equipment to get a laugh from the rowdy audience.”
Teacher's tipThis is a common euphemism in locker-room talk or low-brow comedy; students should be aware of the double meaning to avoid accidental embarrassment.
Synonyms
Usage equipment used · electronic equipment · require equipment
From equip + -ment, or from French équipement.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.