ladder

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun

n. a series of stages that help you move up to a better job or position.

n. a metaphorical series of stages or levels through which an individual may progress toward a higher status or better position.

“She worked hard for ten years to climb the corporate ladder.”

“Ambitious junior associates often find that the first few rungs of the professional ladder require significant personal sacrifice and long hours.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun British English

n. a long thin hole or line of broken threads in a piece of clothing like tights or a sweater.

n. a line of unravelled stitches in a knitted fabric, particularly in hosiery or fine knitwear.

“She was annoyed to find a ladder in her new silk stockings.”

“The dancer checked her tights in the mirror, relieved to find that the small snag had not yet developed into a visible ladder.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Sports Dialect

n. a list that shows the ranking of teams in a sports competition.

n. a competitive ranking or league table showing the relative positions of teams or participants.

“After winning the match, the team moved up to third place on the ladder.”

“With only three rounds remaining in the season, the local club is fighting to maintain its position at the top of the ladder.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate British English

v. when a piece of clothing gets a long thin hole in it.

v. to develop a line of unravelled stitches; used intransitively of knitted garments.

“Be careful with those sharp nails or your tights will ladder.”

“The delicate fabric tended to ladder easily if it caught on the rough edges of the wooden chairs.”