English Reference
Noun

high

n.
A1 Beginner Oxford US /ˈhaɪ/ UK /hˈaɪ/ high UK spelling highs Nautical

n.measuring a long distance from the bottom to the top. You use this to describe mountains, buildings, or things that are far above the ground.

n.extending a great distance upward; situated at a significant height above a baseline or sea level.


SIMPLE

The mountain is very high and covered in snow.

CONTEXTUAL

The hikers reached a high point on the trail that offered a clear view of the valley below.

COMPLEX

Architects designed the skyscraper with a reinforced core to withstand the high winds that occur at such extreme altitudes.

Usage

Typically placed before the noun it modifies or after a linking verb like 'be'.

Don't confuse

high vs highly — High describes physical elevation or a point on a scale, while highly functions as an intensifier meaning 'to a great degree'.

Pitfall
He is very highHe is very tall

Use 'tall' for the height of people, trees, or narrow buildings; use 'high' for things that are far off the ground or have great vertical extent like mountains.

Usage high volume · high school · high temperatures

This entry
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Very common
Updated