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stage

n. · v.
US //ˈsteɪdʒ// UK //stˈeɪdʒ// stage
  1. 1 a phase or step (n.)
    A2 Elementary

    a particular point or period in a process or development.

    a distinct step or period in a sequence of events or a process of development.

    Example

    The project is still in its early stages, so we can change the plan.

    Example

    At this stage of the negotiations, both parties are hesitant to make further concessions without seeing a revised budget.

  2. 2 theatre platform (n.)
    A2 Elementary Theatre

    the raised area in a theatre where actors or singers perform.

    a raised floor or platform, typically in a theatre, on which actors, entertainers, or speakers perform.

    Example

    The band walked onto the stage and the crowd started cheering.

    Example

    The lead actor stood alone on the stage, illuminated by a single spotlight that emphasized the dramatic tension of the final scene.

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  1. 3 the acting profession (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Theatre

    the world of acting and the theatre.

    the theatrical profession or the world of drama as a whole.

    Example

    She left her job in the city to pursue a career on the stage.

    Example

    Many legendary performers found it difficult to transition from the stage to the more subtle requirements of film acting.

    Usage

    Usually used with 'the', as in 'the stage'.

  2. 4 microscope part (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Science

    the small platform on a microscope where you put the slide.

    the small platform on a microscope on which the specimen or slide is placed for examination.

    Example

    Carefully place the glass slide on the microscope stage.

    Example

    The technician adjusted the mechanical stage to bring the cellular structure into the center of the objective lens's field of view.

  3. 5 rocket section (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Science

    one of the parts of a rocket that falls off after its fuel is used.

    a self-contained section of a rocket that is discarded after its fuel is exhausted during flight.

    Example

    The first stage of the rocket fell into the ocean after launch.

    Example

    The successful separation of the second stage was critical for the satellite to reach its intended geostationary orbit.

  4. 6 to produce a play (v.)
    B1 Intermediate Theatre

    to organize and present a play or a concert.

    to present a performance of a dramatic work or musical event.

    Example

    The local school plans to stage a musical next spring.

    Example

    The company decided to stage a modern interpretation of Hamlet, setting the action in a corporate boardroom rather than a castle.

  5. 7 to organize an event (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to organize or make a big event happen.

    to organize and carry out an event, protest, or public action.

    Example

    The workers decided to stage a protest outside the factory gates.

    Example

    Opposition leaders managed to stage a massive rally in the capital despite the government's attempts to restrict public gatherings.

  6. 8 to medicalize (v.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Medicine

    to find out how far a disease like cancer has spread.

    to determine the extent or severity of a disease, particularly cancer, in a patient.

    Example

    The doctors need to stage the tumor before they can start treatment.

    Example

    Accurately staging the patient's condition is essential for selecting the most effective oncological intervention.

Idioms6 entries

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