toolbox
- 01 A2 Elementary
a box or case where you keep tools like hammers and screwdrivers.
a physical container designed for the organized storage and transport of manual tools.
Simple“He grabbed his toolbox from the garage to fix the broken shelf.”
In context“The plumber arrived with a heavy metal toolbox, neatly organized with various wrenches and replacement valves for the repair.”
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
a set of skills or methods you use to do a job or solve a problem.
a metaphorical set of competencies, strategies, or resources available to a professional.
Simple“Learning a second language is a great addition to your professional toolbox.”
In context“The workshop aims to provide managers with a practical toolbox of conflict resolution strategies for the modern workplace.”
Synonymsskill setrepertoire - 03 C1 Advanced
a collection of ready-to-use computer code that helps programmers build new software.
a set of pre-existing routines, functions, or software components used to facilitate the development of new applications.
Simple“The developer used a graphics toolbox to create the game's visual effects.”
In context“By utilizing the standard mathematical toolbox, the research team significantly reduced the time required to implement the data analysis algorithm.”
- 04 C2 Proficiency
a rude word for someone you think is stupid or annoying.
a derogatory term for an individual perceived as foolish, incompetent, or socially inept.
Simple“Don't listen to him; he's just a total toolbox.”
In context“The internet comments were filled with people calling the politician a toolbox after his latest public blunder.”
From tool + box.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.