glass
- 01 A1 Beginner
n.a hard, clear material that is used to make things like windows, bottles, and mirrors.
n.an inorganic, amorphous, and typically transparent solid made by fusing silica with various additives.
Simple“Be careful not to step on the broken glass on the kitchen floor.”
In context“The architect specified a specialized type of tempered glass to ensure the skyscraper's facade could withstand extreme wind pressure.”
UsageUncountable when referring to the substance itself.
Synonyms - 02 A1 Beginner
n.a container made of glass or plastic that you use for drinking.
n.a drinking vessel, typically cylindrical and without a handle, made of glass or similar translucent material.
Simple“He poured a cold glass of orange juice for his guest.”
In context“The waiter polished each wine glass until it sparkled under the restaurant's dim ambient lighting.”
UsageCountable; the plural is 'glasses'.
PitfallI would like a glass water. I would like a glass of water.Use 'of' to connect the container to the liquid it holds.
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.the lenses used in a camera or other optical equipment.
n.a collective term for high-quality optical lenses used in photography or cinematography.
Simple“Professional photographers spend a lot of money on high-quality glass for their cameras.”
In context“While the camera body is important, most cinematographers argue that investing in superior glass yields a more significant impact on image quality.”
UsageOften used as an uncountable collective noun in professional contexts.
- 04 C1 Advanced
n.a surface that reflects your image, like a mirror.
n.a reflective surface, typically made of glass with a metallic backing; a mirror.
Simple“She paused to check her hair in the glass before entering the room.”
In context“The protagonist stared into the glass, barely recognizing the weathered face that looked back at him after years of travel.”
Synonymsmirrorlooking glass - 05 C1 Advanced
v.to look at something through binoculars or a telescope.
v.to scan or observe an area using optical instruments such as binoculars or a spotting scope.
Simple“The birdwatcher spent hours glassing the trees for a rare owl.”
In context“The hunters spent the early morning glassing the distant ridges, hoping to spot movement before the sun rose too high.”
UsageCommon in hunting, birdwatching, and military contexts.
- 06 C2 Proficiency
v.to hit someone in the face with a drinking glass.
v.to strike a person with a drinking glass, often broken, with the intent to cause severe injury.
Simple“The man was arrested after he tried to glass someone during the fight.”
In context“The defendant was charged with grievous bodily harm after he allegedly glassed a patron during a heated argument at the pub.”
Teacher's tipThis is a very violent term used in news reports or informal speech about bar fights; avoid using it in polite conversation.