Word
lumps
US/ˈɫəmps/
UK/lˈʌmps/
Plural noun
Definition
n. punishment or criticism that you receive for something you did wrong. It is usually used when someone thinks you deserve the trouble you are in.
n. punishment, criticism, or physical blows received as a consequence of one's actions. Typically used in the plural within the idiomatic phrase 'take one's lumps'.
Examples
“He had to take his lumps after the project failed.”
“The politician had to take her lumps from the press after the scandal broke.”
“While the young boxer showed great promise, he had to take his lumps in the early rounds before finding his rhythm and securing a victory.”
Examples
simple
“He had to take his lumps after the project failed.”
contextual
“The politician had to take her lumps from the press after the scandal broke.”
complex
“While the young boxer showed great promise, he had to take his lumps in the early rounds before finding his rhythm and securing a victory.”
Usage
Almost exclusively used in the plural form within the idiom 'take one's lumps'.
Real-World Examples
“The ocean floor is covered in nodules – lumps the size of baked potatoes – that are rich in metals and minerals.” “Lumps of the waxy substance were located on Egremont beach in Wirral after reports to Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team.” - 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.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL 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: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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