press
- 01 A1 Beginner
v.to push a button or key to make a machine work.
v.to activate a mechanism by applying downward or forward force to a button, key, or switch.
Simple“You need to press the red button to start the coffee machine.”
In context“The operator was instructed to press the emergency stop sequence only if the pressure gauge exceeded the safety threshold.”
- 02 A2 Elementary
v.to push firmly against something or someone.
v.to exert steady weight or force against a surface or object.
Simple“He pressed his face against the window to see outside better.”
In context“The crowd pressed against the barriers as the motorcade approached the palace gates.”
- 03 B1 Intermediate
v.to make clothes smooth using a hot iron.
v.to remove wrinkles from fabric by applying heat and pressure, typically with an iron.
Simple“I need to press my shirt before the job interview tomorrow.”
In context“The tailor carefully pressed the seams of the wool jacket to ensure a crisp, professional finish.”
- 04 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to try hard to persuade someone to do something.
v.to urge, entreat, or insist upon a course of action or a specific demand.
Simple“The reporter continued to press the politician for a clear answer.”
In context“The board decided not to press the matter further, fearing that legal action would damage the company's reputation.”
Antonyms - 05 B1 Intermediate
n.newspapers, magazines, and the journalists who write for them.
n.the collective body of journalists and news organisations; print and digital media outlets.
Simple“The story was reported in the local press the following morning.”
In context“Freedom of the press is considered a fundamental pillar of democratic governance in many nations.”
Synonyms - 06 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a large machine that prints books, newspapers, or magazines.
n.a mechanical device for printing text or images from type or plates onto paper.
Simple“The newspaper went to press at midnight to be ready for the morning.”
In context“Modern digital presses have largely replaced the traditional offset machines in small-scale publishing houses.”
Synonymsprinting press - 07 A2 Elementary
- 08 C2 Proficiency
n.a large cupboard used for storing clothes or linen.
n.a large, usually built-in cupboard or closet for storage.
Simple“She kept the clean towels in the linen press in the hallway.”
In context“The old farmhouse featured a deep oak press built directly into the thick stone walls of the kitchen.”
- 09 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.an exercise where you push weights away from your body.
n.a weightlifting movement involving the extension of the limbs to move a weight away from the body.
Simple“He added more weight to the bench press during his workout.”
In context“The athlete struggled with the final repetition of the overhead press during the championship qualifiers.”
Synonymsbench pressshoulder press
Usage press conference · university press · press release