steel
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a strong, hard metal made of iron and carbon, used for making buildings, cars, and tools.
n.a hard, strong, gray or bluish-gray alloy of iron with carbon and usually other elements, used extensively as a structural and fabricating material.
Simple“The skyscraper was built with a massive frame made of steel.”
In context“Modern engineering relies heavily on high-grade steel to ensure the structural integrity of bridges and high-rise buildings.”
Synonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
n.a quality of being very strong, determined, and not easily upset.
n.a quality of extreme hardness, resilience, or cold determination in a person's character.
Simple“You could see the steel in her eyes as she faced her opponent.”
In context“Despite the mounting pressure from the board, the CEO showed nerves of steel and refused to resign.”
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to prepare yourself to be strong before doing something difficult or unpleasant.
v.to prepare oneself for something difficult or unpleasant by hardening one's resolve. Transitive, often used reflexively with 'oneself'.
Simple“She had to steel herself before giving the bad news to her team.”
In context“He steeled himself against the cold wind before stepping out of the cabin into the blizzard.”
UsageCommonly used in the pattern 'steel oneself for' or 'steel oneself against'.
- 04 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.made of the metal called steel.
adj.composed of or consisting of steel.
Simple“The factory was surrounded by a tall steel fence.”
In context“The industrial designer opted for a brushed steel finish to give the appliance a modern, minimalist aesthetic.”
Usage steel magnate · steel aluminum · steel sector
“For Ohio, it's the tax on steel that will particularly hurt, as well as the tax on laundry machines.”
“Like a guitarist’s fingers on steel strings, your skin has to toughen up.”