fixing
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.small items like screws, nails, or bolts used to hold things together in a building.
n.hardware components such as screws, brackets, or wall plugs used to secure items during construction or installation.
Simple“The shelf came with all the necessary fixings like screws and wall plugs.”
In context“The contractor ordered a bulk supply of stainless steel fixings to ensure the external cladding would withstand the coastal humidity.”
UsageUsually used in the plural form 'fixings' in British English.
- 02 C1 Advanced
n.the act of dishonestly deciding the result of a game, race, or vote before it happens.
n.the illicit subversion or manipulation of a competitive process, such as an election or sporting event, to guarantee a specific outcome.
Simple“The police investigated the fixing of the championship game after several players were seen meeting with gamblers.”
In context“Allegations of widespread vote fixing led to an international inquiry into the legitimacy of the recent parliamentary elections.”
UsageOften appears in the compound 'match-fixing' or 'price-fixing'.
Synonyms - 03 B1 Intermediate
v.the action of repairing something or making it stay in one place.
v.the present participle of 'fix', denoting the ongoing act of repairing, securing, or establishing something.
Simple“He spent the whole afternoon fixing the broken fence in the backyard.”
In context“Fixing the structural issues in the old bridge proved more expensive than the city council had originally anticipated.”
- 04 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.getting ready to do something very soon.
v.an auxiliary-like construction indicating immediate future intent or preparation.
Simple“I was just fixing to call you when you walked through the door.”
In context“The clouds were turning dark and the wind was picking up, so we were fixing to head back inside before the storm hit.”
UsageAlmost exclusively used in the phrase 'fixing to' followed by an infinitive verb.
“The current system is simply not fit for purpose and this half-baked announcement falls frustratingly short from fixing it.”
“At least six times a year my father travels to the farmhouse, fixing it up for modern life.”