spirit
- 01 B1 Intermediate
n.the part of a person that is not their body, often thought to continue after death.
n.the non-corporeal essence of a human being, often associated with the soul, mind, or character.
Simple“Although he was old and weak, his spirit remained young and full of hope.”
In context“Many philosophical traditions debate whether the spirit is a distinct entity that can exist independently of the biological brain.”
- 02 B1 Intermediate
n.a ghost or a supernatural creature that does not have a physical body.
n.a supernatural being or incorporeal entity, such as a ghost, fairy, or sprite.
Simple“Local legends say the spirit of a young woman haunts the old castle.”
In context“The folklore of the region is populated by forest spirits that are said to protect the ancient trees from woodcutters.”
- 03 B1 Intermediate
n.the way you feel at a particular time, or your general attitude toward life.
n.a person's mental or emotional state; the prevailing mood or attitude of a group.
Simple“The team was in high spirits after winning the championship game.”
In context“Despite the economic downturn, the community maintained a spirit of resilience and mutual support.”
Synonyms - 04 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.energy, courage, and determination.
n.the quality of being resilient, energetic, or courageous.
Simple“The young athlete showed great spirit even when she was losing the race.”
In context“The protesters demonstrated an indomitable spirit, refusing to leave the square despite the freezing temperatures.”
- 05 C1 Advanced
n.the real meaning or purpose of something, rather than just the exact words used.
n.the intended meaning or purpose of a law or agreement, contrasted with its literal interpretation.
Simple“The judge ruled that the company had violated the spirit of the law.”
In context“Legal scholars often distinguish between the letter of the law and the spirit of the law when interpreting constitutional amendments.”
UsageOften used in the phrase 'the spirit of the law' or 'the spirit of the agreement'.
- 06 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.strong alcoholic drinks like vodka, gin, or whiskey.
n.strong distilled alcoholic liquor; usually plural in general contexts.
Simple“The bar serves a wide variety of beers, wines, and spirits.”
In context“The duty-free shop offers a significant discount on premium spirits, including aged scotch and imported cognac.”
UsageUsually plural ('spirits') when referring to beverages; singular ('spirit') in technical or industrial contexts like 'methylated spirit'.
Synonymsliquorhard stuff - 07 C2 Proficiency
v.to take someone or something away quickly and secretly.
v.to carry off or remove someone or something mysteriously or secretly.
Simple“The witness was spirited away to a safe house before the trial began.”
In context“Under the cover of darkness, the valuable paintings were spirited out of the gallery just hours before the occupation began.”
UsageAlmost always used with 'away' or 'off' as a phrasal verb.