English Reference
verb · adjective · noun

express

v. · adj. · n.
US /ɪksˈpɹɛs/ UK /ɛkspɹˈɛs/ ex·press UK spelling expresses

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    v.to show what you think or feel using words, looks, or actions.

    v.to convey a thought, intention, or emotion through verbal or non-verbal communication. Transitive, requiring a direct object.

    Simple

    It is often difficult to express exactly how you feel in a new language.

    In context

    The artist sought to express the isolation of modern urban life through a series of minimalist landscapes.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical

    v.to press or squeeze something out, like juice from a fruit or milk.

    v.to force or squeeze out a liquid or substance from a container or source. Often used in medical or culinary contexts.

    Simple

    The recipe says to express the juice from the lemon directly into the bowl.

    In context

    The lactation consultant demonstrated how to manually express milk to relieve the pressure and maintain supply.

  3. 03 A2 Elementary

    adj.designed to be very fast, like a train that does not stop at every station.

    adj.denoting a high-speed service or transport method that bypasses intermediate stops to ensure rapid delivery or arrival.

    Simple

    We took the express train to the city to save thirty minutes of travel time.

    In context

    The courier company offers an express delivery option for documents that must reach the capital before the close of business.

  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

    adj.clearly and directly stated so there is no doubt about the meaning.

    adj.explicitly and clearly stated; leaving no room for doubt or implication.

    Simple

    He acted against my express wishes by inviting them to the party.

    In context

    The contract was signed with the express purpose of preventing any future disputes regarding intellectual property ownership.

  5. 05 B1 Intermediate

    n.a train or bus that travels quickly and stops at only a few important places.

    n.a vehicle, particularly a train, that operates on a fast schedule by omitting minor stops.

    Simple

    The midnight express was the only way to get home after the concert ended.

    In context

    Commuters often prefer the morning express, despite the higher fare, because it reduces the journey time by nearly half.

    non stopdirect

Usage clearly express · differently express · express as


Etymology 1

From French exprès, from Latin expressus, past participle of exprimere (see Etymology 2, below).

Etymology 2

From Old French espresser, expresser, from frequentative form of Latin exprimere.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin expressus
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Common
Updated