Word
inanimate object
Definition
compound. a thing that is not alive, like a chair, a rock, or a car. You use this to talk about items that cannot move or think on their own.
compound. a physical entity that lacks life or consciousness. This compound noun is frequently used in philosophical, legal, or scientific contexts to distinguish physical matter from biological organisms.
Examples
“He was so angry that he started shouting at an inanimate object.”
“The artist has a strange talent for making an inanimate object, like a teapot, look like it has a personality.”
“The law distinguishes between harm done to a living creature and the mere destruction of an inanimate object.”
Examples
simple
“He was so angry that he started shouting at an inanimate object.”
contextual
“The artist has a strange talent for making an inanimate object, like a teapot, look like it has a personality.”
complex
“The law distinguishes between harm done to a living creature and the mere destruction of an inanimate object.”
Usage
usually used in the singular or plural to refer to physical things that have no life cycle.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'living thing' or 'organism'; it is often used humorously when someone treats a tool or piece of furniture as if it were alive.
- 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.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL 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: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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