toy

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun

n. a very small breed of dog.

n. a dog belonging to a breed of very small size, often kept as a pet. Often used as a modifier.

“She prefers toy breeds because they are easier to keep in a small apartment.”

“The kennel club categorizes the Pomeranian and the Chihuahua within the toy group due to their diminutive stature.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Informal

n. an object used for sexual pleasure.

n. a shortened form of 'sex toy', referring to an object used for sexual stimulation.

“The shop on the corner sells various adult toys and lingerie.”

“The couple decided to introduce toys into their private life to explore new sensations together.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to think about an idea or a plan but not very seriously.

v. to consider something casually or without a firm commitment. Intransitive; almost always takes the preposition 'with'.

Español:darle vueltas a una idea

“I am toying with the idea of moving to the countryside next year.”

“The board of directors is currently toying with a merger proposal, though no formal negotiations have commenced.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to move or touch something with your fingers because you are bored or nervous.

v. to handle or move something idly or absentmindedly. Intransitive; takes the preposition 'with'.

“He sat at the table toying with his pen while he waited for the interview.”

“She nervously toyed with her necklace as the judge prepared to read the final verdict.”

C1 · Advanced Informal

adj. describing something that is a small model or not powerful enough for real work.

adj. referring to a version of something that is simplified, miniature, or lacks the power required for professional or practical application.

“That little screwdriver is just a toy; you need a real tool for this job.”

“The programmer dismissed the new software as a toy project that lacked the security features necessary for enterprise deployment.”