ENGLISH
REFERENCE

moles

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈmoʊɫz// UK //mˈəʊlz// moles

n. small, dark spots on your skin that are usually brown or black. They can also be small animals that live underground or people who hide inside a group to steal secrets.

n. small, pigmented spots or growths on the human skin, typically dark brown; also refers to small, insect-eating mammals that live in underground tunnels or to double agents who infiltrate an organisation.


SIMPLE

The doctor checked the moles on my arm.

CONTEXTUAL

The gardener was frustrated by the moles digging tunnels under the lawn, while the intelligence agency searched for moles in its own ranks.

COMPLEX

While most moles on the skin are benign, any change in their shape or colour should be examined by a specialist to rule out more serious conditions.

Synonyms
Usage

Plural form of 'mole'. When referring to the animal or the spy, it is a standard countable noun; when referring to the skin growth, it is also countable.

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