Word
Definition
n. a book with a stiff, strong cover made of thick cardboard. These books are usually more expensive and last longer than paperbacks.
n. a book bound with rigid protective covers, typically made of thick binder's board covered with cloth, heavy paper, or leather.
Examples
“I prefer to buy the hardcover version of my favorite novels.”
“The library keeps the hardcover editions on the main shelves because they withstand frequent handling better than softcover books.”
“Collectors often prioritize the first-edition hardcover over later reprints, as the physical durability and aesthetic quality of the binding represent a more significant investment in the work.”
Examples
simple
“I prefer to buy the hardcover version of my favorite novels.”
contextual
“The library keeps the hardcover editions on the main shelves because they withstand frequent handling better than softcover books.”
complex
“Collectors often prioritize the first-edition hardcover over later reprints, as the physical durability and aesthetic quality of the binding represent a more significant investment in the work.”
Usage
Can be used as a countable noun for the book itself or as an uncountable noun when referring to the format in general.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/hardcover
「カタカナ語」 data: JMdict (EDRDG), CC BY-SA 4.0