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notice

v. · n.
US //ˈnoʊtəs// UK //nˈəʊtɪs// no·tice
  1. 1 to observe (v.)
    A2 Elementary

    to see, hear, or feel something and become aware of it.

    to become aware of something through the senses; to observe or perceive.

    Example

    I didn't notice that you had cut your hair until you mentioned it.

    Example

    The detective was trained to notice even the smallest discrepancies in a witness's statement during a formal interview.

  2. 2 a sign or announcement (n.)
    A2 Elementary

    a written or printed sign that gives information to the public.

    a written or printed announcement displayed publicly to provide information or instructions.

    Example

    There is a notice on the wall saying the lift is out of order.

    Example

    The council posted a formal notice on the community board regarding the upcoming changes to local parking regulations.

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  1. 3 advance warning (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    information or a warning given before something happens.

    advance notification or warning of a future event or requirement.

    Example

    The meeting was cancelled at short notice, so I had already arrived.

    Example

    The landlord is required by law to give at least twenty-four hours' notice before entering the property for an inspection.

  2. 4 leaving a job (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the period of time you must work after saying you will leave your job.

    the formal period of time an employee must remain at a job after resigning, or the period an employer must provide before termination.

    Example

    She handed in her notice yesterday because she found a better job.

    Example

    According to his contract, he must serve a three-month notice period before he can begin his new role at the rival firm.

    Usage

    Often used with the verbs 'give', 'hand in', or 'serve'.

    • resignation period
  3. 5 attention (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    attention or interest from other people.

    observation, attention, or recognition from others.

    Example

    His hard work finally escaped the notice of his manager.

    Example

    The young artist's work first came to public notice after a favorable review in a national Sunday newspaper.

Origin

Borrowed from Middle French notice, from the Latin nōtitia. Doublet of notitia.

Word family
Idioms3 entries

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