heavens
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.the sky, especially when you are looking at the sun, moon, and stars.
n.the celestial sphere or the expanse of space visible from Earth. Usually plural and often carries a poetic or scientific-historical tone.
Simple“The astronomer spent the night gazing up at the heavens through his telescope.”
In context“Ancient navigators relied on the movement of the heavens to guide their ships across the open ocean before the invention of modern tools.”
UsageAlmost always used in the plural form 'the heavens'.
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.the place where God or the gods are believed to live.
n.the dwelling place of the divine or the blessed dead in religious contexts. Plural form of 'heaven' used for emphasis or formal register.
Simple“In many old stories, the gods looked down from the heavens to watch over humans.”
In context“The cathedral's ceiling was painted with a vibrant mural depicting the opening of the heavens and the descent of angels.”
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
interj.a polite way to show you are surprised, shocked, or annoyed.
interj.a mild exclamatory formula used to express surprise, frustration, or emphasis. Often appears in phrases like 'Good heavens' or 'Heavens above'.
Simple“Good heavens, I didn't expect to see you here so early.”
In context“Heavens, I had no idea that the project would require such a significant financial investment.”
UsageTypically functions as a standalone exclamation or an introductory phrase.
“As Manchester United 's home game with Ipswich Town drew to its conclusion, the skies went dark grey and the heavens opened.”