position

used about someone who has an important position in an organization. [Senior](bold) can also be used about someone who has a higher position than you in an organization

used, especially in job titles, about someone who has the most important or one of the most important positions in an organization

Carole is the company’s chief financial officer.

He’s the chief economist at Hangseng Bank.

used about someone who has a high position in an organization such as the government, the army, or the police

used about someone who is very good, important, or successful in their job

used about someone who has a low position in an organization. [Junior](bold) can also be used about someone who has a lower position than you in an organization

His role as naval officer was junior to Nelson.

an assistant manager, director, editor etc has a position just below a manager etc

He’s an assistant professor of neurology at Harvard University.

She became assistant director at the Belgrade Theatre.

She wriggled into a more comfortable position.

The priest rose from his kneeling position by the bed.

(=in which you are curled up like a baby before it is born)

I crawled into my bed and curled up in a foetal position.

He shifted his position to get a better view of the stage.

She pulled herself into a sitting position.

(=move your body into a particular position)

The patient should adopt this position for five minutes every half hour.

Pull in your tummy muscles and hold that position.

A lot of people are in the same position.

You can ask to be put in contact with others in a similar position.

(=a situation in which you have an advantage)

A victory tonight will put them in a very strong position to win the cup.

Their close knowledge of the area places them in a unique position to advise on social policy.

I was in the difficult position of having to choose between them.

(=a situation that other people would like to be in)

He is in the enviable position of not needing to work.

She was furious with Guy for putting her in such an impossible position.

(=a situation in which you have a disadvantage)

Someone who is desperate to sell their house is in a weak position.

(=a situation in which you might be harmed)

Today we are in the vulnerable position of producing barely half our own food.

The following statistics indicate the present position.

(=the situation from a legal point of view)

Has your financial position changed recently?

(=someone’s ability to bargain/negotiate)

The new law has strengthened workers' bargaining position.

find yourself in a similar/awkward etc position

The refugee organizations now found themselves in a difficult position.

It has taken two years to reach the position we are now in.

put/place sb in a good/awkward etc position

I'm sorry if I put you in an awkward position.

People said that he used the conflict to strengthen his own position.

The prime minister's position had been weakened by allegations of financial mismanagement.

By March, the Democrats' position had improved.

By now they were negotiating from a position of strength.

We take the position that these changes are to be welcomed.

In 1898, the Church adopted its current position.

Since then, the party has changed its position.

(=think again about it and perhaps change it)

The UN Secretary General urged the US to reconsider its position.

Each of the next three speakers defended a different position.

(=one that a government or organization says officially that it has)

This was the French government’s official position.

Few people hold this extreme position today.

(=one that is between two extreme positions)

They took a middle position, favouring decentralization but with some controls.

(=not supporting either side in an argument)

The US claimed that Jordan had abandoned its neutral position and sided with Iraq.

She had previously held a senior position in another school.

I decided to apply for the position of head teacher.

Woods took up a new position as managing director of a company in Belfast.

He left his position as Chief Conductor of the Moscow Radio Symphony Orchestra.

She has resigned from her position as department secretary.

They offered me the position of store manager.

We are now seeking to fill some key positions in the company.

Decision making is done by managers holding the most senior positions.

I left school and was offered a junior position in a bank.

It's a temporary position initially, for six months.

He has no official position in the government.

Many used their positions of power for personal advantage.

The media have an unrivalled position of influence.

As a church leader, he was in a position of trust.

Did you hold any positions of responsibility at school or university?

She had risen to a position of leadership.

The public expects the Royal Family to earn its privileged position.

It's useful if you have friends in influential positions.

Many leaders from that period are still in powerful positions in government.

The firm achieved a dominant position in the world market.

Those who occupy positions of power do not want democracy.

High-status groups do all they can to maintain their positions.

She can now use her position to do some good.

the way someone is standing, sitting, or lying

Frankie [shifted](bold) his [position](bold) so that his knees would not become cramped.

弗朗基换了个姿势，这样他的膝盖就不会老蜷着动弹不得。

the situation that someone is in, especially when this affects what they can and cannot do

I’m not sure what I would do if I were [in](bold) your [position](bold).

我不知道如果我身在你的处境会怎么办。

Next week we will be in a much better position to comment.

我们下星期发表评论会合适得多。

She is in the enviable position of having three job offers.

她手头有三个工作机会，真让人羡慕。

You’re putting me in rather a difficult position.

the place where someone or something is, especially in relation to other objects and places

Our hotel was in a superb [central position](bold) near St Mark’s Square.

我们的酒店处于极佳的中心位置，在圣马克广场附近。

the [strategic position](bold)(=useful or important position) of Egypt in relation to the Arabian peninsula

埃及相对于阿拉伯半岛的战略位置

the place where someone or something is needed or supposed to be

All parking signs have now been placed in position.

所有停车标记都已安放就位。

the direction in which an object is pointing

〔物体的〕所指方向，位置

Make sure the container remains in an upright position.

要确保那个容器保持直立。

She turned the switch to the ‘on’ position.

她把开关拧到“开”的位置。

an opinion or judgment on a particular subject, especially the official opinion of a government, a political party, or someone in authority

〔尤指政府、政党、当权者的〕立场，态度

What’s the party’s position on tax reform?

该党对于税制改革持什么态度？

The principal [took](bold) the [position that](bold) the students didn’t need music classes.

那位校长认为学生不需要上音乐课。

I hope you’ll [reconsider](bold) your [position](bold).

我希望你能重新考虑你的立场。

Bill [took up](bold) his new [position](bold) as Works Director in October.

10月份比尔上任当了厂长。

She has [held](bold) the [position](bold) of Chief Financial Officer since 1992.

她自1992年起担任财务主管一职。

Bruce is thinking of [applying for](bold) the [position](bold).

布鲁斯正在考虑申请那个职位。

I’m sorry, the [position has been filled](bold)(=someone has been found to do the job).

对不起，该职位已经有人递补了。

someone’s or something’s level, authority, or importance in a society or organization

[position of power/authority/influence etc](bold)

Many of his supporters used their positions of power for personal advantage.

他的许多支持者都利用手中的权位谋取私利。

As a priest, he was in a [position of trust](bold).

[abuse your position as sth](bold)(=use your authority wrongly)

to be able to do something because you have the ability, money, or power to do it

〔因为有能力、金钱或权力而〕能够做某事

When I know all the facts, I’ll be in a position to advise you.

在我了解所有的事实之后，我就可以给你出主意了。

to be unable to do something because you do not have the ability, money, or power to do it

〔因为没有能力、金钱或权力而〕不能够做某事

You’re unemployed and in no position to support a family.

你没有工作，没有能力养家。

Ned says I’m always late? He’s [in no position to talk](bold)(=should not criticize because he does the same thing).

内德说我总是迟到？他哪有资格说我啊。

the place of someone or something in a race or competition in relation to the other people or things

Alesi [finished](bold) in third [position](bold).

the area where someone plays in a sport, or the type of actions they are responsible for doing

What [position](bold) do you [play](bold)?

to try to get an advantage over other people who are all trying to succeed in doing the same thing

Firms adopt different strategies as they jockey for position.

各公司在抢占有利地位时采用的策略各不相同。

a place where an army has put soldiers, guns etc

向敌方阵地发起的一次进攻


position

to carefully put something in a particular position

Position the cursor before the letter you want to delete.

把光标放在你想删去的字母之前。

I positioned myself where I could see the door.

我让自己站到可以看见门的地方。

to be in a situation in which you will be able to do something successfully

已准备好，境况很理想〔可以做成某事〕

We are ideally positioned to take advantage of the growth in demand.

我们已准备好利用需求增加这一良机。


positive

Having a positive attitude makes life so much better.

This is just the positive approach that the school needs.

He takes a fairly positive view of the future.

Many people believe that positive thinking can help your recovery from serious illnesses.

That's not a very positive thing to say.

There are a lot of positive aspects to retirement.

Exercise has a positive effect on health.

His mother was a strong positive influence.

Most refugees are determined to make a positive contribution to their new country.

We hope there will be a positive outcome to the talks.

Working here has been a very positive experience for me.

We should provide girls with more positive role models.

It's important to promote a positive image of our industry to young people.

If you spend a year travelling after school, employers often see this in a positive light.

The merger was presented to the world in a positive light.

(=used when saying what is good about something)

On the positive side, the company’s financial condition remains strong.

if you are positive about things, you are hopeful and confident, and think about what is good in a situation rather than what is bad

You’ve got to be more positive about your work.

你必须更积极地对待自己的工作。

She’s got a really positive attitude to life.

她对生活抱有非常乐观的态度。

‘[Think positive](bold)!’ she advised herself.

“往好的方面想！”她劝自己。

At least [something positive](bold) has come out of the situation.

至少这个情况也带来了一些积极影响。

Write down all the [positive things](bold) about your life.

记下生活中所有好的事情。

The rural environment was having a [positive effect](bold) on the children’s health.

乡村环境对孩子们的健康有好处。

It’s been a very [positive experience](bold) for her.

那对她来说是一次非常有益的经历。

the [positive contribution](bold) to the community [made](bold) by many older people

许多老年人为社区做出的积极贡献

It’s been a difficult time but, [on the positive side](bold), I feel physically fine.

日子过得不容易，不过从好的方面看，我的身体状况还不错。

Women should be portrayed [in a](bold) more [positive light](bold).

应该从更正面的角度来描绘女性。

if you take positive action, you do something definite in order to try to achieve something

We need to [take positive steps](bold) to improve the situation of families in poverty.

我们需要采取积极措施来改善贫困家庭的状况。

It’s a relief to know that [something positive](bold) is being done.

知道正在采取积极的措施让人宽心。

expressing support, agreement, or approval

The response we’ve had from the public has been very positive.

我们从民众那里得到的回应是非常积极的。

We’ve had a lot of [positive feedback](bold) from the people of this city.

我们从该市市民那里获得了很多积极反馈。

Most people have been very positive about the show.

大多数人对那个节目予以充分肯定。

very sure, with no doubt at all that something is right or true

确信的，肯定的，有把握的

Are you [absolutely positive](bold) you locked the door?

你百分百确定自己锁门了吗？

“那事你能肯定吗？” “能。”

showing that something is likely to succeed or improve

The fact that he’s breathing on his own again is a [positive sign](bold).

他又能自主呼吸了，这是个好迹象。

proof etc that shows that there is no doubt that something is true

直接证明/直接证据/肯定性鉴定等

The witness made a positive identification.

showing signs of the medical condition or chemical that is being looked for

athletes who had [tested positive](bold) for banned substances

禁用药物检测呈阳性的运动员

used to emphasize how good or bad something is

绝对的〔强调某事物好或坏的程度〕

having the type of electrical charge that is carried by protons


positive

a quality or feature that is good or useful

You can find positives in any situation.


positively

used to emphasize that something is true, especially when this seems surprising

真的，确实〔用于强调某事物的真实性，尤在其看上去令人吃惊时使用〕

Some holiday destinations are [positively dangerous](bold).

in a way that shows you agree with something or want it to succeed

It is hoped that the industry will respond positively to this new initiative.

希望该行业会对这一新方案作出积极回应。

in a way that shows you are thinking about what is good in a situation rather than what is bad

They’re encouraged to [think positively](bold) about themselves and their future.

他们受到鼓励，对自己和未来要保持乐观。

Change should be accepted and be viewed positively.

应该接受并积极看待改变。

‘You certainly won’t!’ Katherine said positively.

“你当然不会的！”凯瑟琳肯定地说。

The blood was never [positively identified](bold) as the victim’s.

一直没有确定这血就是被害人的。

used to emphasize that you really mean what you are saying

This is positively the last time you’ll hear me say this.

这绝对是你们最后一次听我说这事。


possess

[Possess](bold)  is not used in the progressive when it means ‘have’ or ‘own’. You say: He possesses many good qualities.
Don’t say: [He is possessing many good qualities.](strike)

拥有，具有〔某品质或能力〕

Different workers possess different skills.

不同的工人拥有不同技能。

He no longer possessed the power to frighten her.

In everyday English, people usually say that someone [has](bold)  or [has got](bold)  something rather than [possesses](bold)  it:

Neither of them possessed a credit card.

Campbell was found guilty of possessing heroin.

坎贝尔被判持有海洛因罪名成立。

used to say that you cannot understand why someone did something stupid

是什么驱使某人（做某事）？〔表示不明白某人为何做傻事〕

到底是什么让她干出这种事的？

if a feeling possesses you, you suddenly feel it very strongly and it affects your behaviour

〔感觉〕缠住，控制，支配，影响


possession

The painting has been in the family's possession since then.

You have a duty not to disclose confidential information that comes into your possession.

Before applying for a job, make sure you are in possession of the required qualifications.

My father had in his possession a letter written by Winston Churchill.

How did you come into possession of this document?

At 21, he was entitled to take possession of the property.

We were told that we could take only a few personal possessions with us.

Over his shoulder hung a bag which contained all his worldly possessions.

(=things you own, rather than personal qualities, relationships etc)

Many of them have lost all their material possessions as a result of the civil war.

(=one that is valuable or important to you)

A man was salvaging a few precious possessions from the rubble of a bombed house.

One of my most treasured possessions is a small book of prayers.

if something is in your possession, you own it, or you have obtained it from somewhere

The house has been in the family’s possession since the 1500s.

这所房子自16世纪以来一直为这个家族所有。

That information is not in our possession.

She was found in possession of stolen goods.

How did the painting [come into](bold) your [possession](bold)(=how did you get it)?

这幅画是怎么到你手上的？

The finance company now [has possession of](bold) the house.

这家金融公司目前拥有这所房子。

We didn’t [take possession of](bold)(=get and start using) the car until a few days after the auction.

拍卖会过后几天我们才正式拿到那辆车。

something that you own or have with you at a particular time

He had sold all his possessions and left the country.

他变卖所有财产后离境了。

I packed my remaining possessions into the trunk.

[treasured/prized/precious possession](bold)(=one that is very important to you)

This old violin had been her father’s most treasured possession.

这把旧小提琴一直都是她父亲最珍贵的财产。

Prisoners were allowed no [personal possessions](bold).

犯人们不得持有私人物品。

the crime of having illegal drugs or weapons with you or in your home

〔毒品或非法武器的〕私藏，持有

He was arrested and [charged with possession](bold) of cocaine.

他被拘捕并被控持有可卡因。

when a person or team has control of the ball in some sports

〔一些体育运动中的〕控球

a country controlled or governed by another country

France’s former [colonial possessions](bold)

a situation in which someone’s mind is being controlled by something evil

in (full) possession of your faculties/senses

able to think in a clear and intelligent way, and not crazy or affected by old age

神志[头脑]（完全）清醒

used to say that if you have something, you are likely to be able to keep it, even if it is not yours

现实占有，败一胜九〔指现实占有者总占上风〕


possibility

ˌpɒsəˈbɪləti

There is a strong possibility that the drug causes similar damage in humans.

At this moment, a recession is a real possibility.

I knew there was a distinct possibility that I might fail my degree.

There's no point worrying about such a remote possibility.

The possibility exists that he misunderstood the data.

Police in Glasgow are considering the possibility that the death may be drug-related.

(=say or show that something may happen or may be true)

The government has raised the possibility of an early election next year.

(=say that something will definitely not happen or is definitely not true)

We can't rule out the possibility that there will be more redundancies.

There is a possibility that files could be lost if the system crashes.

(=think about whether you should take an opportunity)

We even began to consider the possibility of moving there permanently.

(=think carefully and find out about an opportunity)

You may want to explore the possibility of setting up your own business.

Technology offers exciting possibilities to designers.

His recent performance opens up the possibility for him to compete in the Olympic Games.

I was determined not to give up until I had exhausted all the possibilities.

The city offers many exciting possibilities for young people.

This discovery opens up tremendous possibilities for cancer screening.

if there is a possibility that something is true or that something will happen, it might be true or it might happen

There’s always [a possibility that](bold) he might go back to Seattle.

他也许会回到西雅图去，这种可能性一直存在。

the [possibility of](bold) an enemy attack

There was [no possibility of](bold) changing the voting procedure.

改变投票程序是不可能的。

A peace settlement now looks like [a real possibility](bold).

达成和平协议现在看来有很大的可能性。

Tomorrow, there’s a [remote possibility](bold) of snow on high ground.

明天高原地区下雪的可能性甚微。

They might get married – it’s [not beyond the bounds of possibility](bold).

他们也许会结婚——这并非不可能。

The study [raises the possibility](bold) that dieting is bad for your health.

那项研究指出节食有可能损害健康。

an opportunity to do something, or something that can be done or tried

exciting possibilities for reducing costs

令人振奋的降低成本的可能方法

Archer began to [explore the possibilities](bold) of opening a club in the city.

阿彻开始想办法在城里开设一家俱乐部。

The US has not yet [exhausted](bold) all diplomatic [possibilities](bold)(=tried everything possible).

美国还没有使尽外交手段。

the range of [possibilities offered](bold) to students

if something has possibilities, it could be made into something much better

这房子有很大的潜在价值。


possible

if something is possible, it can be done or achieved

I think it’s possible that we could win the race.

I want to get back by 5 o'clock if possible.

Please let me know your answer as soon as possible.

if an idea or plan is feasible, it is possible and you can find a practical way of doing it

We need to find out first if the idea is technically feasible.

It is not feasible to have security cameras in every part of the building.

Da Silva considered it feasible that uranium could be produced on an industrial scale.

possible and likely to be successful, and therefore worth doing

Nuclear energy is the only viable alternative to coal or gas.

The product needs to be commercially viable.

We have yet to find a viable solution to the problem.

The company was no longer financially viableit could not make enough money to be able to continue.

a workable plan, system, or solution is one that can be done or used

By early morning, they had arrived at a workable and safe solution.

The company would have a tough job convincing people that the deal was workable.

if something is doable, you have enough money, energy, or skill to do it

This exercise programme is doable for most people.

Hosting great parties is fun, easy, and doable on any budget.

The book is full of interesting and doable recipes.

A 15% cut in carbon emissions is achievable.

Perfect democracy is not attainable, nor is perfect freedom or perfect justice.

if something is realistic, it seems sensible to think that it can be done or achieved

Their expectations didn’t seem very realistic.

It is important to set yourself realistic goals.

From the hilltop it was possible to see the sea.

Medical advances have made it possible to keep more patients alive.

If possible, take light exercise first thing in the morning.

Choose wholemeal varieties of flour and pasta, where possible.

We must do everything possible to limit our impact on the Earth's environment.

The company helped promote the scheme in every way possible.

Combining a family with a career is perfectly possible .

(=possible in theory, but difficult and unlikely)

It is theoretically possible for all students to get full marks.

(=possible with the technology available)

Amendments to software may be technically possible, but are inadvisable.

It is not humanly possible to work for more than fifteen hours a day.

可能的，可能做到的，可能实现的

[Is it possible to](bold) get tickets for the game?

有没有可能弄到比赛的门票？

[It might be possible for](bold) the documents [to](bold)  be sent over.

这些文件也许可以发送过去。

Computer technology [makes it possible for](bold) many people [to](bold)  work from home.

计算机技术让很多人可以在家里工作。

I want to avoid the rush hour traffic [if possible](bold).

如有可能我想避开交通高峰期。

I walk or use public transport [whenever possible](bold).

只要有可能我就步行或者乘坐公共交通工具。

We are doing [everything possible](bold) to track down the killer.

我们正竭尽全力追捕杀人凶手。

Our staff will help you [in every way possible](bold).

我们的员工会尽力帮助你。

Even if it were [technically possible](bold), we do not have the money to do it.

即使技术上可行，我们也没有钱去做。

She decided to stay as far away from him as was [humanly possible](bold).

Sharon always does as little work as possible.

The original features of the house have been preserved [as far as possible](bold)(=as much as possible).

这所房子原有的特色被尽可能地保留了下来。

a possible answer, cause etc might be true

可能的，合乎事实的，合理的

There seem to be only two [possible explanations](bold).

似乎只有两种合理的解释。

the [possible causes](bold) of a child’s learning difficulties

造成孩子学习困难的可能原因

It’s possible that the letter got lost in the post.

有可能那封信在邮寄过程中弄丢了。

a possible event or thing might happen or exist

Heavy rain is possible later in the day.

今天晚些时候可能会有大雨。

the possible effect on the health of local people

对当地人的健康可能造成的影响

You need to look at the [possible consequences](bold) of your actions.

你要想一想你的行为可能造成的后果。

In Hollywood, [anything is possible](bold)(=anything can happen, even though it may seem very unlikely).

the best etc that can exist or be achieved

最好的/最大的/最快的等

What is the worst possible thing that could happen?

would it be possible (for sb) to do sth?

used when asking politely if you can do or have something

（某人）可不可以做某事？

Would it be possible to speak to Oliver?


possible

someone or something that might be suitable or acceptable for a particular purpose

弗兰克是那份工作的一个可能人选。


possibly

used when saying that something may be true or likely, although you are not completely certain

This last task is possibly the most difficult.

这最后一项任务也许是最难的。

It will take three weeks, possibly longer.

要花三个星期，也许更久。

‘Will you be here tomorrow?’ ‘Possibly.’

“你明天到这儿来吗？” “也许吧。”

‘Was it murder?’ ‘[Quite possibly](bold)(=it is very likely).’

“是谋杀吗？” “很可能是。”

used to emphasize that you are very surprised or shocked by something, or you cannot understand it

竟然〔用于强调惊讶、震惊或不能理解〕

[How could](bold) anyone [possibly](bold) do such a thing?

怎么竟会有人做出这样的事？

used to emphasize that someone will do or has done everything they can to help or to achieve something

We shall be contributing [as much as](bold) we [possibly can](bold) to the campaign.

我们将尽最大努力为这场运动做出贡献。

Doctors did [everything](bold) they [possibly could](bold) to save his life.

医生们竭尽所能挽救他的生命。

used to emphasize that you cannot do something, or that something cannot or could not happen or be done

I can’t possibly allow you to go home in this weather.

我不可能让你在这种天气回家。

She couldn’t possibly have heard what was said.


post

[as deaf as a post](bold) at → [deaf](->deaf) sense 1 [be driven/passed from pillar to post](bold) at → [pillar](->pillar) sense 4 [pip sb at the post](bold) at → [pip](->pip) 2 sense 1 → [first-past-the-post](->first-past-the-post)

He had previously held the post of Foreign Minister.

I am writing to apply for the post of secretary.

She will take up her new post next month.

The previous ambassador left his post in June.

John Sargent has resigned his post as chairman.

As a result of the scandal, he was dismissed from his post.

He was offered the post of Secretary of State for Wales.

Mr Collingwood has been appointed to the post of Headteacher.

They have advertised the post but it hasn't yet been filled.

Senior posts in industry attract very high salaries.

I have a two-year contract, not a permanent post.

a part-time post as a university lecturer

My first teaching post was in outer London.

For the next twelve years, he held various administrative posts in Bombay.

I decided to apply for a local government post.

I put it in the post on Friday, so it should have arrived today.

This letter came in the post this morning.

I'm afraid the cheque must have got lost in the post.

The package arrived by first-class post.

Items sent by second-class post can take up to five days to arrive.

(=the first, second, or last collection or delivery of letters each day)

(=post your letter in time for it to be collected)

He wrote the letter hurriedly because he was anxious to catch the post.

(=not post your letter in time for it to be collected)

If I miss the post today, the card won’t arrive on her birthday.

a job, especially an important one in a large organization

〔尤指大机构内重要的〕职位，职务

I [applied for the post](bold) and was asked to attend an interview.

我申请了那个职位，被要求参加面试。

She was [offered](bold) the [post](bold) of ambassador to India.

He will [take up](bold) his [post](bold) as Head of Modern Languages in September.

他将于9月份就任现代语言系主任。

Goddard has [held](bold) the [post](bold) since 1998.

戈达德自1998年起一直担任该职务。

Unfortunately they were unable to find a suitable person to [fill](bold) the [post](bold).

遗憾的是他们找不到一个合适的人选填补空缺。

Mr Thomson [resigned](bold) his £50,000 a year [post](bold) in April.

4月，汤姆森先生辞去了他年收入5万英镑的职位。

She now holds a [senior post](bold) in the Department of Education.

她目前在教育部担任高级职务。

the creation of 4,000 new [teaching posts](bold)

创造4,000个新的教学职位

the official system for carrying letters, packages etc from one place to another

将以邮件形式通知获奖者。

Your letter must have got [lost in the post](bold).

I’ll [put](bold) a copy of the book [in the post](bold)(=send it).

letters, packages etc that are sent and delivered

Emma was [opening](bold) her [post](bold).

What time does [the post go](bold)(=get collected)?

[(the) first/second/last post](bold)(=the first, second etc collection or delivery of letters each day)

Applications must arrive by first post on September 23.

申请书必须在9月23日第一次邮件投递时间前寄到。

[catch/miss the post](bold)(=post your letter in time for it to be collected, or not in time)

[by return (of post)](bold) at → [return](->return) 2 sense 12

a strong upright piece of wood, metal etc that is fixed into the ground, especially to support something

→ [bedpost](->bedpost) → [gatepost](->gatepost) sense 1 → [lamp-post](->lamp-post) → [signpost](->signpost) 1 sense 1

one of the two upright pieces of wood between which players try to kick or hit the ball in football,hockey etc

报〔用于某些报纸的名称〕

the place where a soldier, guard etc is expected to be in order to do their job

By 5 am the soldiers were already at their posts.

清晨5点士兵们已经在哨位上了。

No one was allowed to [leave](bold) their [post](bold).

a place, especially one on a border, where soldiers or police are guarding, checking etc something

边境哨所/军事哨所/海关关卡/警察岗亭

the place where a race finishes, especially a horse race

〔尤指赛马的〕终点，终点标志

Mr Magic was first [past the post](bold).

“魔术先生”一马当先冲过终点。

a message sent to an Internet discussion group so that all members of the group can read it

There was post after post criticizing the Minister.

批评部长的帖子一个接一个。


post

邮寄，寄出〔信件、包裹等〕

She’s just gone to [post](bold) a [letter](bold).

Did you remember to post the card to my parents?

你记得给我父母寄那张卡片了吗？

上星期五我把支票寄给巴里了。

to push something through someone’s letterbox

把某物塞进某人的门缝里/信箱里

I’ll post the key through your letterbox when I leave.

我走的时候会把钥匙塞进你的信箱里。

if you are posted somewhere, your employer sends you to work there, usually for several years

He joined the British Army and was posted to Germany.

他参加了英国陆军，被派驻德国。

[Post](bold)  is usually passive in this meaning.

to put up a public notice about something on a wall or notice board

The exam results were posted on the bulletin board yesterday.

考试成绩昨天在布告板上贴出来了。

to make someone be in a particular place in order to guard a building, check who enters or leaves a place, watch something etc

Guards were to be posted around nuclear power stations.

to regularly tell someone the most recent news about something

定期向某人通报；及时告知某人

我将随时向你通报他的进展。

to officially record and announce information about a company’s financial situation or a country’s economic situation

Cisco Systems [posted](bold) record [profits](bold) and [sales](bold) for the third fiscal quarter.

思科系统公司公布了第三个财政季度创纪录的利润和销售情况。

to put a message or computer document on the Internet so that other people can see it

Could you post those new flyers on David’s website?

你能把那些新的小广告发布在戴维的网站上吗？

if a soldier is posted missing, it is announced officially that they have disappeared

to pay a specific amount of money in order to be allowed to leave prison before your trial


postcard

a card that can be sent in the post without an envelope, especially one with a picture on it

别忘了给我们寄张明信片！


postcode

a group of numbers and letters that you write at the end of an address on an envelope, package etc. The postcode shows the exact area where someone lives and helps the post office deliver the post more quickly


poster

a large printed notice, picture, or photograph, used to advertise something or as a decoration

招贴（画）；海报；广告（画）

→see THESAURUS at [advertisement](->advertisement)

A team of volunteers were [putting up posters](bold).

一队志愿者正在张贴海报。


post office

a place where you can buy stamps, send letters and packages etc

the national organization which is responsible for collecting and delivering letters


postpone

to change the date or time of a planned event or action to a later one

The game was postponed because of heavy snow.

We had to postpone the trip because of my father’s illness.

The trial has been postponed until November.

to decide to do something later than you planned to do it or later than you should do it, especially because there is a problem or because you do not want to do it now

I really should go to the dentist, but I keep putting it off.

The concert’s been put off till next week.

The committee decided to put off making any decision until the new year.

to not do something until something else has happened or until a more suitable time

He decided to delay his departure until after he’d seen the Director.

Police delayed making any announcement until the girl’s relatives had been contacted.

to delay doing something that you ought to do, usually because you do not want to do it – used especially to show disapproval

Kerry procrastinated for as long as possible before firing anyone.

He had been procrastinating over starting the work.

if an event is pushed back, someone arranges for it to be held at a later time or date than originally planned

Their meeting has been put back to next Thursday.

The museum’s opening date was pushed back so that safety checks could be carried out.

The game on April 1 has been moved back to April 5.

to decide not to continue with a plan, project etc now although it may be considered again at some time in the future

Plans for a new stadium have been shelved for now.

The city shelved the project due to lack of funding.

put sth on ice/put sth on the back burner

to decide not to continue with a plan, project etc until a later time. These expressions are rather informal and are often used in business English

The project has had to be put on ice due to lack of funding.

Blears called for the discussions to be put on ice until after the elections.

The plan seems to have been put on the back burner.

使〔事件、行动等〕延期，延迟，推迟

→see THESAURUS at [cancel](->cancel)   →see THESAURUS at [delay](->delay) 2

The match had to be [postponed until](bold) next week.

比赛不得不推迟到下周举行。

They’ve decided to postpone having a family for a while.

他们决定推迟一段时间要孩子。

His trial has been [postponed indefinitely](bold)(=no one knows when it will happen).

对他的审判被无限期推迟了。


posture

the way you position your body when sitting or standing

Poor posture can lead to muscular problems.

不良的姿势可能会导致肌肉问题。

the way you behave or think in a particular situation

He tends to [adopt a](bold) defensive [posture](bold) towards new ideas.

对于新思想他往往采取戒备的态度。


pot

→ [chamber pot](->chamber pot) → [chimney pot](->chimney pot) → [flowerpot](->flowerpot) → [lobsterpot](->lobsterpot) → [melting pot](->melting pot)

a container used for cooking which is round, deep, and usually made of metal

〔通常为金属制成的圆而深的〕锅

There was a big pot of soup on the stove.

a container for a plant, usually made of plastic or baked clay

a container with a handle and a small tube for pouring, used to make tea or coffee

→ [coffee pot](->coffee pot) → [teapot](->teapot)

a round container for storing foods such as jam that are slightly liquid, or for substances such as glue or paint

a dish, bowl, plate, or another container that is made by shaping clay and then baking it

陶碟；陶碗；陶盆；陶制容器

if something such as a place or an organization goes to pot, it becomes much worse or fails because no one is taking care of it

The government has [let](bold) the whole country [go to pot](bold).

He’s hoping to [make pots of money](bold) from the deal.

他希望能从那笔交易中赚一大笔钱。

money that is available to do something, especially money that people have collected

我们目前凑了150英镑。

all the money that people have risked in a card game, and which can be won

〔纸牌游戏的〕全部赌注，赌注总额

赌注总额是1,000美元。

Michael was [smoking pot](bold) with some friends.

迈克尔和一些朋友在吸大麻。

(a case of) the pot calling the kettle black

used humorously to say that you should not criticize someone for something, because you have done the same thing or have the same fault

the act of hitting a ball into one of the pocketsholes at the edge of the table in games such as billiards,pool, and snooker


pot

[past tense and past participle](italic) [potted](bold) [present participle](italic) [potting](bold)

to put a plant into a pot filled with soil

两到三周后把幼苗栽入盆中。

to hit a ball into one of the pocketsholes at the edge of the table in games such as billiards,pool, and snooker

〔台球等中〕击〔球〕入袋


potato

(=crush them until they are smooth, after boiling them)

traditional roast beef with roast potatoes

We cooked baked potatoes in the embers of the fire.

a round white vegetable with a brown, red, or pale yellow skin, that grows under the ground

[jacket potato](bold)(=cooked in its skin)

Marie stood at the sink, [peeling potatoes](bold)(=cutting off the skin).

玛丽站在洗涤槽边削土豆皮。


potent

having a very powerful effect or influence on your body or mind

有效力的，效力大的；有影响力的

Advertising is a [potent force](bold) in showing smoking as a socially acceptable habit.

A good company pension scheme remains a [potent weapon](bold) for attracting staff.

好的公司养老金计划依然是吸引员工的有效武器。

The treaty requires them to get rid of their most potent weapons.

条约要求他们销毁威力最强大的武器。

a man who is potent is able to have sex or able to make a woman pregnant


potential

Advertisers want to reach as many potential customers as possible.

Party leaders have put together a list of 10 potential candidates.

There is a potential problem with the new equipment.

Tired drivers are a potential danger to other road users.

Funding is an area of potential conflict between the two departments.

The potential benefits must be weighed up against the costs involved.

A dirty kitchen is a potential source of infection.

likely to develop into a particular type of person or thing in the future

new ways of attracting potential customers

the potential benefits of the new system

the potential risks to health associated with the drug

这种药物对健康的潜在危害


potential

When he saw I had some potential, he gave me extra coaching.

Nicholson soon showed great potential as an actor.

(=succeed by using your skills or talents)

A good school aims to enable pupils to develop their potential.

(=succeed as much as you have the potential to succeed)

A lot of athletes find it difficult to achieve their potential.

(=use all the qualities that someone or something has)

Until now, the island has not exploited its potential as a tourist destination.

(=allow them to succeed as well as they can)

Training is a way of unlocking the potential of the workforce.

We continuously seek to develop people to their full potential.

Malaysia only showed glimpses of their true potential in the final stages of the tournament.

They were quick to recognize the band’s commercial potential.

She always felt that I had leadership potential.

(=the potential to be a star in music, films etc)

The woman who spotted Kate’s star potential was Sarah Doukas.

Mass unemployment is a shameful waste of human potential.

the possibility that something will develop in a particular way, or have a particular effect

The company certainly has the potential for growth.

那家公司肯定有发展潜力。

the potential of the Internet to create jobs

因特网创造就业机会的潜力

if people or things have potential, they have a natural ability or quality that could develop to make them very good

She has the potential to become a champion.

[achieve/fulfil/realize your (full) potential](bold)(=succeed as well as you possibly can)

the difference in voltage between two points on an electrical circuit


potentially

something that is potentially dangerous, useful etc is not dangerous etc now, but may become so in the future


pottery

clay that has been shaped and baked in order to make pots, dishes etc

the activity of making pots, dishes etc out of clay

a factory where pottery objects are made

陶瓷厂；陶器工厂；制陶作坊


poultry

birds such as chickens and ducks that are kept on farms in order to produce eggs and meat

meat from birds such as chickens and ducks


pounce

to suddenly move forward and attack someone or something, after waiting to attack them

The cat was hiding in the bushes, ready to pounce.

猫躲在灌木丛中，准备扑上去。

Kevin pounced on Liam and started hitting him.

凯文猛然扑向利亚姆并动手打他。


pound

a unit for measuring weight, equal to 16ounces or 0.454 kilograms

磅〔重量单位，相当于16盎司或0.454公斤〕

Moira [weighs](bold) about 130 [pounds](bold).

莫伊拉的体重约为130磅。

The grapes [cost](bold) $2 [a pound](bold).

葡萄的价格是2美元一磅。

the standard unit of money in Britain, which is divided into 100 pence

英镑〔英国本位货币单位，等于100便士〕

the value of British money compared with the value of the money of other countries

英镑兑美元的汇率有所上升。

the standard unit of money in various other countries, such as Egypt and the Sudan

镑〔埃及、苏丹等国的本位货币单位〕

a place where dogs and cats that have been found on the street are kept until their owners come to get them

〔走失猫狗的〕收容所，待领处

a place where cars that have been illegally parked are kept until their owners pay money to get them back

〔违规停放车辆的〕临时扣押场

to get the full amount of work, money etc that someone owes you, even though it makes them suffer and you do not really need it. The phrase comes from Shylock, a character in the play The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare. He is a Jewish money-lender who lends money to Antonio. When Antonio is unable to pay the money back, Shylock says he has the right to cut a pound of flesh from Antonio’s body.

无情地要回所欠之物〔此短语源自莎士比亚的戏剧《威尼斯商人》中放高利贷的犹太商人夏洛克一角〕


pound

to hit something very hard several times and make a lot of noise, damage it, break it into smaller pieces etc

He began pounding the keyboard of his computer.

Thomas pounded on the door with his fist.

if your heart or blood is pounding, your heart is beating very hard and quickly

Patrick rushed to the door, his heart pounding with excitement.

帕特里克冲到门口，他的心激动得怦怦直跳。

She ran, her [heart pounding in her chest](bold).

if your head is pounding, it feels painful, especially because you have a headache or you have been using a lot of effort

to walk or run quickly with heavy loud steps

I could hear him pounding up the stairs.

我听到他咚咚咚地上楼来。

Runners will be pounding the pavement this weekend during the London Marathon.

本周末伦敦马拉松比赛期间选手们将跑上街头。

to attack a place continuously for a long time with bombs

Enemy forces have been pounding the city for over two months.

敌军两个多月来一直在猛攻那个城市。


pour

to make a liquid or other substance flow out of or into a container by holding it at an angle

Jessica was pouring more wine into her glass.

to pour a liquid onto food in small drops or in a small stream – often used in cooking instructions

Drizzle a little olive oil onto the bread.

to pour something out of a container by turning it upside down

She weighed out the flour and tipped it into the bowl.

to accidentally make a liquid or other substance come out of a container

Someone had spilled coffee all over the carpet.

The tanker was leaking, and spilled oil into the sea.

to pour a liquid quickly in an irregular stream

Tony hurriedly splashed some cream in his coffee.

Someone had splashed petrol over the steps and set light to them.

She splashed some perfume onto her wrists.

to pour liquid from one container into another container – a rather formal use

Rachel decanted the shampoo into small bottles for travelling.

He often decanted cheap whisky into bottles of more expensive brands.

Pour the oil into a frying pan and heat.

The wine was so bad I just poured it away.

那酒太糟糕，我索性把它倒了。

Why don’t you [pour](bold) yourself another [drink](bold)?

你怎么不给自己再倒杯酒呢？

if a lot of liquid or smoke pours out, it comes out from somewhere in very large amounts

Smoke was pouring out of the upstairs windows.

烟从楼上的窗户里滚滚冒出。

[it’s pouring with rain/it poured with rain](bold) BrE

It was pouring down with rain at three o'clock.

3点钟的时候下着滂沱大雨。

if a lot of people or things pour into or out of a place, a lot of them arrive or leave at the same time

The crowds began pouring out of the stadium.

人群开始从体育场里不断涌出。

Offers of help poured in from all over the country.

全国各地纷纷伸出援助之手。

if light is pouring into or out of a place, a lot of light is coming in or out

to criticize someone’s plan, idea, or desire to do something so much that they no longer feel excited about it

to say that something or someone is stupid and not worth considering

鄙夷地谈论某人/某事物，对某人/某事物嗤之以鼻

to try to stop a quarrel, for example by talking to people and making them calmer

平息风波，调解争端，息事宁人

to behave or talk in a particular way in order to make people like you or feel sorry for you

〔为获得好感或同情而〕装腔作势，极力渲染

to try very hard in order to do something, especially in order to win a game

全力以赴〔尤为了打赢比赛〕

The Raiders really poured it on in the second quarter.

突袭者队在第二节中打得非常卖力。

to behave in a very nice and polite way, in order to make someone like you


poverty

No child should grow up in poverty in America in the 21st century.

His art was not appreciated and he died in poverty.

By the end of the war, millions of people had been reduced to poverty.

The money should be spent on fighting poverty.

(=take action to reduce the amount of poverty)

Our priority is to tackle poverty and global inequality.

More must be done to reduce child poverty.

What has the West done to alleviate poverty in the world?

They live in conditions of extreme poverty.

He was shocked by the abject poverty that he saw.

(=when someone is poor compared with someone else)

the relative poverty of the southern states

They campaigned for an end to world poverty.

People come to the capital seeking to escape rural poverty.

There is increasing child poverty in our country.

the situation or experience of being poor

Millions of elderly people [live in poverty](bold).

数百万老年人生活在贫困之中。

We need an effective strategy to [fight poverty](bold).

我们需要制定一个有效的对策来与贫困作斗争。

continued efforts to [alleviate poverty](bold) and raise living standards

缓解贫困和提高生活水平的不懈努力

the income below which a person or a family is officially considered to be very poor and in need of help

20% of the population now live [below the poverty line](bold).

现在有20%的人口生活在贫困线以下。

a situation in which a poor person without a job cannot afford to take a low-paying job because they would lose the money they receive from the government

贫困陷阱〔指贫困者干低收入工作会得不偿失，因为会失去政府补贴〕

The novel shows a surprising poverty of imagination.

这部小说简直太缺乏想象力了。


powder

a dry substance in the form of very small grains

[Grind](bold) the sugar [into a powder](bold).

The paint is supplied [in powder form](bold).

[milk/custard etc powder](bold)(=a powder that you add water to in order to change it into a liquid)

a type of powder that you put on your face in order to make it look smoother and to give it more colour

a dangerous situation or place where violence or trouble could suddenly start

火药桶〔比喻暴力或麻烦随时可能发生的危险局面或地方〕

Since the riot, the city has been a powder keg waiting to explode.

自那次骚乱以来，这座城市就是一个随时可能爆炸的火药桶。

斜坡上积有一英尺厚的干雪。

to wait calmly until you see how a situation develops before deciding what to do


powder

to put powder on something, especially your skin

给〔某物，尤指皮肤〕涂粉

She was [powdering](bold) her [face](bold).

an expression meaning to go to the toilet, used by women to avoid saying this directly

补妆〔女士上厕所的委婉说法〕


power

→ [staying power](->staying power) → [balance of power](->balance of power) → [high-powered](->high-powered)

People who have power never seem to use it to help others.

Women were trying to gain power in a male-dominated world.

The party will use all its power and influence to raise the issue in the Senate.

Questions have been asked about the way the police exercised their power.

(=use power – used when someone has a lot of power)

The Church still wields enormous power in the country.

Parents had absolute power over children in those days.

Certain wealthy men exercised unbridled power.

The real power lay with the president’s advisers.

(=a situation in which groups or leaders try to get control)

The country is locked in a power struggle between forces favouring and opposing change.

There has been a shift in the balance of power between the two countries.

(=a job or role that gives someone power)

Many of them were using their positions of power for personal advantage.

This cover-up is a scandalous abuse of power.

The law was passed when the Democrats were in power.

(=start being in control, usually without an election)

Many people fled after the military took power last September.

His son seized power in a military coup.

He assumed power after the assassination of the former president.

The prime minister is facing his toughest challenge since winning power.

The Roman emperor Vespasian rose to power through command of an army.

(=start being in control again, usually after an election)

The party was returned to power with a reduced majority.

Economic disaster befell the country during the decade when he held power.

(=put someone in control of a country again)

In 2004, the army restored him to power.

Reagan swept to power by promising reforms.

Mao Tse-tung, the leader of the 1949 Communist revolution, clung to power for 27 years.

The programme examines Saddam Hussein’s rise to power.

Churchill’s return to power had an immediate effect upon Anglo-American relations.

Is it possible to enhance your mental powers?

A music teacher should have a real interest in developing children’s creative powers.

The water was supposed to have healing powers.

Diamonds were once thought to have magical powers.

I was so surprised that I momentarily lost the power of speech.

Some birds have lost the power of flight over millions of years.

Experience improves our powers of observation, since it teaches us what to look for.

As you get older, your powers of concentration may decrease.

She used all her powers of persuasion to convince Tilly that the move was a good idea.

(=be at a time in your life when your abilities are strongest)

Fonteyn was still at the height of her powers as a dancer.

He was a brilliant speaker, who never lost the power to influence people.

Mark felt that his creative powers were waning.

The accident raised doubts about the safety of nuclear power.

They use solar power for all their heating.

Is wind power the answer to the energy crisis?

Wave power can be used to generate electricity.

The factory is run on hydroelectric power.

Early engines were driven by steam power.

One problem is their reliance on coal as the main source of power.

Britain wanted to maintain her status as a great power.

There will be representatives from all the world's major powers at the conference.

(=one with influence all over the world)

The United States had replaced Great Britain as the dominant world power.

Russia had become a naval power equal to Spain.

He was charged with spying for a foreign power.

the ability or right to control people or events

People should have more power over the decisions that affect their lives.

人们应该对影响自己生活的决定拥有更多权力。

[power-mad/power-crazy/power-hungry](bold)(=wanting too much power)

the position of having political control of a country or government

The voters have once again shown their support for the party in power.

选民再一次对执政党表示支持。

[come/rise to power](bold)(=start having political control)

戴高乐于1958年上台。

They [seized power](bold) in a military coup.

他们在一场军事政变中夺取了政权。

the ability to influence people or give them strong feelings

the [pulling power](bold)(=ability to attract people or attention) of major celebrities

[student/black/consumer etc power](bold)(=the political or social influence a particular group has)

The police have been given special powers to help them in the fight against terrorism.

警方被赋予特殊权力以便打击恐怖主义。

The committee has the power to order an enquiry.

委员会有权要求进行调查。

The chairman has the power of veto on all decisions.

主席对所有决定都拥有否决权。

a natural or special ability to do something

After the accident she lost the [power of speech](bold)(=ability to speak).

那次事故之后，她丧失了语言能力。

energy that can be used to make a machine work or to make electricity

Many people are opposed to the use of nuclear power.

the search for renewable [sources of power](bold)

The ship was able to leave port [under its own power](bold)(=without help from another machine, ship etc).

这艘船得以靠自身动力离开了港口。

the ability to earn money, buy things etc

赚钱能力/购买力/讨价还价的能力等

Property in the city is beyond the purchasing power of most people.

该市的房地产超出了大多数人的购买力。

your bargaining power in pay negotiations

你在工资谈判中讨价还价的能力

the physical strength or effect of something

The power of the explosion smashed windows across the street.

爆炸的冲击力震碎了街对面的窗户。

electricity that is used in houses, factories etc

Make sure the power is switched off first.

[power cut/failure/outage](bold)(=a short time when the electricity supply is not working)

Parts of the country have had power cuts because of the storms.

这个国家的部分地区由于暴风雨而停电了。

the number of planes or ships that a country has available to use in a war

a country that is strong and important and can influence events, or that has a lot of military strength

→see THESAURUS at [country](->country) 1

Egypt is still a major power in the Middle East.

[world power](bold)(=a country that can influence events in different parts of the world)

if it is in someone’s power to do something, they have the authority or ability to do it

某人有权[能力]（做某事）

I wish it was within my power to change the decision.

但愿我有权改变这个决定。

The ambassador promised to do everything in his power to get the hostages released.

大使承诺尽其所能让人质获释。

if it is beyond someone’s power to do something, they do not have the authority or ability to do it

某人无权[能力]（做某事）

It’s beyond the power of the court to make such a decision.

法庭无权作出这样的决定。

to be in a situation in which someone has complete control over you

to make someone feel more healthy, happy, and hopeful about the future

It looks as if your holiday has done you a power of good.

if a number is increased to the power of three, four, five etc, it is multiplied by itself three, four, five etc times

the unknown people who have important positions of authority and power, and whose decisions affect your life

The powers that be don’t want the media to get hold of the story.

当权者不希望媒体知道那件事。

the ability of a lens, for example in a pair of glasses or a microscope, to make things look bigger

unknown or magical forces that people believe can influence events in a good or evil way

someone who has a lot of power and influence in a country

〔某个国家中〕有权势的人物

someone who secretly controls and influences decisions made by the leader or government of a country, but who does not have an official government position

if you are on a power trip, you are enjoying your power or authority in a way that other people think is unpleasant


power

给〔车辆或机器〕提供动力，以动力驱动

它由法拉利V12发动机驱动。

[Power](bold)  is usually passive in this meaning.

His strong body powered through the water.

他身体矫健，在水里游得飞快。


power

a meal at which people meet to discuss business

clothes which you wear at work to make you look important or confident

〔工作时穿着以显示权威或自信的〕权力套装


powerful

[powerfully](bold) adv. eg: Christie is very powerfully built.

a powerful person, organization, group etc is able to control and influence events and other people’s actions

Parliament had become more powerful than the King.

having a lot of power to influence what happens, because people pay attention to what you say

He’s one of the most influential figures in international politics.

powerful – used about people or groups in politics who have a lot of supporters

The communists were particularly strong in the big industrial cities.

He is a strong voice in the state assembly.

more powerful than other people, groups, countries etc

She was the dominant force in women’s tennis for many years.

The company has a dominant position in the market.

He was one of the most powerful men in Bohemia.

他是波希米亚最有权势的人物之一。

having a strong effect on someone’s feelings or opinions

强有力的，有影响[感染]力的

[powerful reasons/arguments](bold)(=reasons that make you think that something must be true)

Good teamwork is a [powerful tool](bold)(=very effective method) for effective management.

良好的团队合作是有效管理的利器。

a powerful feeling or effect is very strong or great

〔感情〕强烈的；〔效果〕巨大的

Immigrants have had a [powerful influence](bold) on the local culture.

外来移民对当地文化产生了巨大的影响。

a powerful machine, engine, weapon etc is very effective and can do a lot

〔机器、引擎、武器等〕功率大的，效能高的

功能更强大的新一代个人电脑

a machine that is [immensely powerful](bold)

杰德是个强壮结实的男人。

The females are smaller and less powerful than the males.

雌性体形比雄性小，力气也没有雄性大。

a powerful blow, explosion etc has a lot of force

an explosion ten times more powerful than the Hiroshima bomb

比广岛原子弹威力大十倍的爆炸

足以把树木连根拔起的狂风

a powerful medicine or drug has a very strong effect on your body

a powerful team, army etc is very strong and can easily defeat other teams or armies

浓烈的，强烈的；明亮的；响亮的


powerless

[powerlessness](bold) n. <U> eg: a sense of frustration and powerlessness

unable to stop or control something because you do not have the power, strength, or legal right to do so

无权力［利］的；无力量的；无能为力的

Local police were powerless to stop them doing it again.

当地警方无力阻止他们再次行动。

The villagers were powerless against the rising flood water.

村民们对上涨的洪水无能为力。


practical

You have to gain practical experience before you qualify as a solicitor.

Archaeology students are required to do a certain amount of practical work.

The local Social Services Department may be able to help with practical problems.

There will be trained people available to listen and to provide practical help.

The booklets offer clear, practical advice on running your business.

Knowledge without understanding is of little practical use.

There are a number of practical considerations that must be taken into account when choosing a car.

He was well aware of the practical implications of his theory.

In practical terms, the experiment is going to be difficult.

relating to real situations and events rather than ideas, emotions etc

Candidates should have training and [practical experience](bold) in basic electronics.

应征者应该具备基础电子学方面的培训和实践经验。

the [practical problems](bold) of old age

They provide financial and [practical help](bold) for disabled students.

他们为残障学生提供经济和切实援助。

a combination of theoretical and practical training

理论培训和实践培训的结合

They haven’t thought about the practical consequences of the new regulations.

他们没有考虑过新法规会产生什么实际后果。

[In practical terms](bold), this means spending more time with each student.

具体地说，这意味着花更多的时间和每个学生在一起。

practical plans, methods etc are likely to succeed or be effective in a situation

〔计划、方法等〕有效的，切实可行的

It doesn’t sound like a very practical solution.

这听上去不是一个十分可行的解决方法。

a [practical way](bold) of achieving greater efficiency

达到更高效率的切实有效的方法

Unfortunately, there’s no [practical alternative](bold) to driving.

遗憾的是，除了开车没有其他可行的方案。

a [practical guide](bold) to buying and selling a house

a practical person is good at dealing with problems and making decisions based on what is possible and what will really work

〔人〕注重实际的，务实的

I was very shocked, but tried to be practical and think what to do.

我非常震惊，但我尽力让自己实际一点，想想该怎么办。

useful or suitable for a particular purpose or situation

Skirts aren’t very practical in my kind of work.

干我这种工作穿短裙不合适。

I’m not very practical – I can’t even change a light bulb.

我动手能力不强——连灯泡都不会换。

used to say what the real effect of a situation is

The time you spend on it doesn’t, for all practical purposes, affect the final result.

你花在那上面的时间实际上并不会影响最终结果。

something that is almost certain, almost a disaster etc

几乎确定无疑/是灾难/满座等

Sampras looks a practical certainty to win Wimbledon this year.

桑普拉斯打赢今年的温布尔登网球锦标赛看来是十拿九稳的。


practical

a lesson or examination in science, cooking etc in which you have to do or make something yourself rather than write or read about it

〔科学、烹饪等的〕实践课，实践考试


practically

I’ve read [practically all](bold) of his books.

我差不多读过他所有的书。

She sees him [practically every](bold) day.

It’s practically impossible to predict what will happen.

将会发生什么几乎无法预测。

The two designs were practically identical.

这两个设计几乎一模一样。

in a sensible way which takes account of problems

‘But how can we pay for it?’ said John practically.

“但是我们怎么付得起钱呢？”约翰很实际地问道。


practice

If he’d done badly, he’d go out and take extra batting practice.

I’m not a very good dancer. I haven’t had enough practice.

You must get as much practice as possible before the competition.

(=you can only learn to do it well by practising)

We'd better do a bit of batting practice before the game.

There's choir practice on Tuesday evening.

The area is used by the army for target practice.

You have to do three months of teaching practice before you qualify.

when you do a particular thing, often regularly, in order to improve your skill at it

It takes hours of practice to learn to play the guitar.

学习弹吉他需要长时间的练习。

With a little more practice you should be able to pass your test.

稍微再练一练，你应该能通过考试了。

We have choir practice on Tuesday evening.

星期二晚上我们要练习合唱。

Schumacher crashed out in practice for the Australian grand prix.

舒马赫在澳大利亚大奖赛练习赛中因撞车退出比赛。

→ In British English, the verb is always spelled [practise](bold) (see separate entry). In American English, both noun and verb are spelled [practice](bold).

used when saying what really happens rather than what should happen or what people think happens

In practice women receive much lower wages than their male colleagues.

实际上女性所得的工资比她们的男同事低得多。

The journey should only take about 30 minutes, but in practice it usually takes more like an hour.

这段路程应该只需约30分钟，不过实际上常常要1小时左右。

something that people do often, especially a particular way of doing something or a social or religious custom

the practice of dumping waste into the sea

the work of a doctor or lawyer, or the place where they work

〔医生或律师的〕业务；诊所；律师事务所

Mary Beth had a busy legal practice in Los Angeles.

玛丽·贝丝在洛杉矶有一家业务繁忙的律师事务所。

→ [general practice](->general practice) → [private practice](->private practice)

to be the usual and accepted way of doing something

是普遍/例行/正常的做法

[It’s common practice](bold) in many countries [for](bold) pupils to repeat a year if their grades are low.

学生如果成绩不好就重读一年，这是许多国家的普遍做法。

[It’s standard practice to](bold) seek parents’ permission wherever possible.

例行的做法是凡事都要尽可能征求父母的同意。

an example of a good or bad way of doing something, especially in a particular job

〔尤指某一工作中〕良好的/最好的/不好的做法

It’s not considered good practice to reveal clients’ names.

泄露客户姓名被认为是不好的做法。

if you put an idea, plan etc into practice, you start to use it and see if it is effective

It gave him the chance to put his ideas into practice.

这使他有机会把自己的想法付诸实施。

to have not done something for a long time, so that you are not able to do it well

used to say that if you do an activity regularly, you will become very good at it


practise

to do an activity many times in order to improve your skill or to prepare for a test

The course will give you a chance to practise your language skills.

You need to practise regularly if you're going to be a good piano player.

to practise physical movements or activities in preparation for a race or game

to practise a play, speech, or music in preparation for a public performance

She's in New York where she's rehearsing her new play.

The band are currently rehearsing for their world tour.

to practise a particular skill so that your general performance improves

You need to work on your listening comprehension.

to practise something such as a speech, play, or piece of music by reading or playing it from the beginning to the end

I'll just run through the speech one more time.

([BrE](special)) AmE practice  [v](bold)

to do an activity, often regularly, in order to improve your skill or to prepare for a test

They moved the furniture back to practise their dance routine.

他们把家具往后挪以便练习舞蹈动作。

It gives students the opportunity to practice their speaking skills.

这给学生提供了锻炼口才的机会。

她在为自己的钢琴演奏会练习。

Everybody wants to practise their English on me.

大伙儿都想跟我练习英语。

[Practise](bold)  is followed by an [-ing](bold)  form, not an infinitive. You say: We practised hitting the ball.
Don’t say: [We practised to hit the ball.](strike)

This technique is [widely practised ](bold)in Europe (=many people use it).

这项技术在欧洲得以广泛应用。

〔医生、律师〕执业，从事（职业）

When she has completed her training, she intends to practise in the UK.

培训结束后，她打算在英国找工作。

if you practise a religion, system of ideas etc, you live your life according to its rules

信奉，遵循，奉行〔宗教信仰等〕

They are free to practice their religion openly.

to do the things that you advise other people to do

She didn’t always practise what she preached.


pragmatic

dealing with problems in a sensible practical way instead of strictly following a set of ideas

讲求实际的，务实的，重实效的

Williams took a more pragmatic approach to management problems.

威廉斯在管理问题上采用的是一种更务实的做法。


praise

to say that you admire and approve of someone or something, especially publicly

The film was praised by the critics when it first came out.

The report praises staff in both schools.

to tell someone that you think it is good that they have achieved something

The government should be congratulated for what they have achieved.

to say to someone that you like how they look, or you like something they have done

She complimented me on my new hairstyle.

to praise someone in order to please them or get something from them, even though you do not mean it

He had persuaded her to buy it by flattering her and being charming.

to talk about something you enjoy or admire in an excited way, and say that it is very good. [Rave](bold) is rather informal, whereas [enthuse](bold) is much more formal and is used mainly in written English

She enthused about the joys of motherhood.

to publicly praise a decision, action, idea etc

Business leaders applauded the decision.

A spokesperson applauded the way the festival had been run.

to praise someone or something, especially officially

After the battle, Andrew Jackson commended him for ‘his courage and fidelity’.

The officers should be commended for their prompt action.

to describe someone or something in a way that shows you have a very good opinion of them, especially in newspapers, on television reports etc

Journalists and music writers hailed the band as ‘the next big thing’.

He is being hailed as the new James Dean.

〔尤指公开地〕称赞，赞扬，表扬

The mayor praised the rescue teams for their courage.

市长称赞了救援队的勇气。

[praise sb/sth to the skies](bold)(=praise someone or something very much)

to give thanks to God and show your respect to Him, especially by singing in a church

used to say that you are pleased something has happened and thank God for it


praise

[sing sb’s praises](bold) at → [sing](->sing) sense 4

Give your dog plenty of praise when it behaves well.

His actions did not get the praise they deserved.

The trade deal won praise from the American business community.

She deserves praise for all the charity work she does.

His work was singled out for praise by the examiners.

Ireland's manager has heaped praise on his team.

Taiwan's media lately showered praise on Li Yundi, the 18-year-old piano prodigy.

The film won high praise from critics and audiences alike.

My sister was constantly singled out for special praise.

United’s captain received lavish praise from his manager.

(=comments that seem to praise someone, but in a way that does not really give them much praise)

He wins faint praise as ‘the only candidate with a grain of sense’.

Captain Jones was full of praise for his men.

(=praise them a lot, especially when they have had to deal with a difficult situation)

Passengers had nothing but praise for the pilot.

She still had some words of praise for her ex-husband’s wit and charm.

words that you say or write in order to praise someone or something

It's important to [give](bold) children plenty of [praise](bold) and encouragement.

对小孩子多加表扬和鼓励是很重要的。

Her teacher [was full of praise for](bold) her work.

老师对她的作业赞不绝口。

His first novel [received high praise](bold).

他的第一部小说受到了高度赞扬。

Gregory was singled out (= he was chosen in particular) for [special praise](bold).

格雷戈里被单独给予特别表扬。

The film has [won praise](bold) from audiences and critics alike.

那部电影赢得了观众和评论家的一致赞誉。

他写了一首诗赞美他心目中的英雄。

the expression of respect and thanks to God

used when you are very pleased about something that has happened


prawn

[n](bold) <[C](bold)> ([especially BrE](special))

a small pink shellfish that can be eaten

prawn cocktail (=a small dish of prawns in a sauce with some salad)


pray

to speak to God in order to ask for help or give thanks

He prayed that his sight might be restored.

他祈祷自己的视力能恢复。

to wish or hope very strongly that something will happen or is true

Paul was praying that no one had noticed his absence.

保罗但愿没有人注意到他的缺席。

I [hope and pray](bold) that this is a misunderstanding.

We’re praying for good weather tomorrow.

我们企盼明天会是好天气。


pray

used when politely asking a question or telling someone to do something

请，恳请〔用于礼貌地提问或叫某人做某事〕


prayer

[on a wing and a prayer](bold) at → [wing](->wing) 1 sense 10

When she recovered, she uttered a prayer of thanks.

(=say a prayer in a formal way, often in a group)

Special prayers were offered for the boys during a service yesterday.

(=respond to a prayer, especially by giving you what you ask for)

(=small cloth on which Muslims kneel to pray)

(=meeting at which people pray together)

words that you say when praying to God or gods

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.

在这艰难时期我们时刻思念你，为你祈祷。

The children [said](bold) their [prayers](bold) and got into bed.

孩子们做完祷告后上床睡觉了。

God has [answered](bold) your [prayer](bold).

when someone prays, or the regular habit of praying

a wish or hope that something will happen

Her prayer was that she would pass her exams.

她的愿望是自己能通过考试。

a regular religious meeting in a church, school etc, at which people pray together

〔教堂、学校等的〕祷告会，祈祷式

（做某事）没有成功的可能

He tried hard, but he didn’t have a prayer.

他拼命努力了，不过不可能成功。

something that someone wants or needs very much

这份工作是我梦寐以求的。


preach

[practise what you preach](bold) at → [practise](->practise) sense 5

to talk about a religious subject in a public place, especially in a church during a service

（向 …）布道，讲道；宣讲〔教义〕

The vicar [preached](bold) a [sermon](bold) about the prodigal son.

教区牧师布道讲了浪子回头的故事。

He traveled the southern states, [preaching the gospel](bold).

他游历南方各州宣讲福音。

to talk about how good or important something is and try to persuade other people about this

亚历山大一直宣扬要坚忍。

[preach the virtues/merits/benefits of sth](bold)

a politician preaching the virtues of a free market

宣扬自由市场优点的政治家

to give someone advice, especially about their behaviour, in a way that they think is boring or annoying

唠叨地劝诫，令人烦厌地说教

grown-ups preaching about the evils of drugs

to talk about what you think is right or important to people who already have the same opinions as you

向教徒传道/向唱诗班传教〔表示向已有同样观点的人作宣传〕


preacher

someone who talks about a religious subject in a public place, especially at a church


precaution

We had taken the precaution of turning the water off.

Fitting window locks is a sensible precaution.

You can easily reduce the risk of theft by taking a few simple precautions.

He justified his secrecy as a necessary precaution.

You must take all reasonable precautions to safeguard official property.

Companies have a legal responsibility to take adequate precautions against fire.

Your home could be at risk if you don't take some basic precautions.

Elaborate precautions were taken to avoid disputes between the representatives.

Both areas were cordoned off as a safety precaution.

The threat of terrorist attacks has prompted some elaborate security precautions.

something you do in order to prevent something dangerous or unpleasant from happening

The traffic barriers were put there as a [safety precaution](bold).

为了安全起见，那里设置了交通路障。

Save your work often as a precaution against computer failure.

经常保存所做的工作以防电脑发生故障。

The trails are well marked, but carrying a map is a wise precaution.

虽然路上有清楚的标志，不过带上地图仍不失为预防万一的明智做法。

Vets [took precautions](bold) to prevent the spread of the disease.

兽医们为防止疾病蔓延采取了预防措施。

[take the precaution of doing sth](bold)

I took the precaution of insuring my camera.

我把我的照相机投了保以防万一。

In everyday English, people usually say [just in case](bold)  rather than [as a precaution](bold) :

I'm going to take my umbrella [just in case](bold).


precede

to happen or exist before something or someone, or to come before something else in a series

Lunch will be preceded by a short speech from the chairman.

午餐开始之前主席会发表一段简短的讲话。

The guard preceded them down the corridor.

警卫带领他们穿过了走廊。


precedent

The decision is important as it could set a legal precedent for other similar cases.

If we allow this once, it will create a precedent.

Now he is following a precedent set by military leaders around the world.

Latin America was afraid that the invasion of Panama would be used as a precedent.

Such a harsh punishment would set a bad precedent.

(=one that could cause problems in the future)

They opposed the plan, saying it would create a dangerous precedent.

By doing this, an important precedent was established.

(=one that is important in law and so must be followed in legal cases)

There are several legal precedents for this.

an action or official decision that can be used to give support to later actions or decisions

UN involvement in the country’s affairs would set a dangerous precedent.

联合国介入该国事务将成为一个危险的先例。

precedents for what courts will accept as ‘fair’

法院认为可以称得上“公平”的判例

something of the same type that has happened or existed before

以前有过的事例，先例，前例

There’s not much precedent for men taking leave when their baby is born.

男性因孩子出生而休假的先例不多。

An epidemic on this scale is without precedent.

如此规模的流行病是史无前例的。

the way that things have always been done

[break with precedent](bold)(=do something in a new way)


precious

My time is precious, and I don't want to waste it.

We knew we only had a few more precious hours together.

The government has squandered the country’s precious resources.

The organization’s most precious asset is its staff.

Her illness made her appreciate more the precious gift of life.

something that is precious is valuable and important and should not be wasted or used without care

We cannot afford to waste precious time.

我们浪费不起宝贵的时间。

planes delivering precious supplies of medicine and food

运送药品、食品等宝贵物资的飞机

precious memories or possessions are important to you because they remind you of people you like or events in your life

〔记忆或拥有物〕珍贵的，宝贵的

→see THESAURUS at [valuable](->valuable)

The doll is cracked and worn, but it’s precious to me because it was my mother’s.

这个娃娃又破又旧，可对我来说很宝贵，因为它是我妈妈用过的。

used to show that you are annoyed that someone seems to care too much about something

宝贝似的〔用于对某人似乎太过注重某事物表示反感〕

我根本没碰过你的宝贝汽车！

used to speak to someone you love, especially a baby or small child

宝贝〔对所爱之人，尤指对婴儿或小孩的称呼〕

used in order to describe someone or something that is small and pretty

The kids gave me that ornament. Isn’t it precious?

那件装饰品是孩子们送我的，是不是很可爱？

too concerned about style or detail in your writing or speech, so that it does not seem natural

His early work is rather precious and juvenile.

他的早期作品相当做作而且幼稚。


precise

precise information, details etc are exact, clear, and correct

It was difficult to get precise information.

‘She’s a lot older than you, isn’t she?’ ‘Fifteen years, [to be precise](bold).’

“她比你大很多，是不是？” “准确地说，大了15岁。”

used to emphasize that you are referring to an exact thing

At that precise moment, her husband walked in.

就在那一刻，她丈夫走了进来。

The precise cause of the disease is unknown.

造成这种疾病的确切原因尚不清楚。

someone who is precise is very careful about small details or about the way they behave

〔人〕周密的，细心的，一丝不苟的


precisely

温度可以精确地测量出来。

It is difficult to [know precisely](bold) how much impact the changes will have.

很难准确了解这些变化会造成多大影响。

Lathes make wheels, or, [more precisely](bold), they make cylindrical objects.

车床可以车削轮子，更确切地说，可以车削圆柱形物体。

used to emphasize that a particular thing is completely true or correct

Women in these jobs are paid less [precisely because](bold) most of the jobs are held by women rather than men.

从事这些工作的女性报酬之所以较低，正是因为做这些工作的人大部分是女性而不是男性。

She’s precisely the kind of person we’re looking for.

她正是我们要找的那种人。

used to say that you agree completely with someone

‘It needs to be dealt with now.’ ‘Precisely, before it gets any worse.’

“现在应该处理这件事了。” “确实如此，趁它还没有变得更糟。”


precision

the quality of being very exact or correct

The work was carried out with [military precision](bold)(=the work was done in a carefully planned and exact way).

这项工作做得严谨细致，有如执行军事行动。


precision

a precision tool or instrument is used for making or measuring something in a very exact way


preclude

to prevent something or make something impossible

阻止，防止，使不可能；排除，消除

rules that preclude experimentation in teaching methods

禁止进行教学方法试验的规定

Age alone will not preclude him from standing as a candidate.

单是年龄问题不会妨碍他参选。


predator

an animal that kills and eats other animals

someone who tries to use another person’s weakness to get advantages

弱肉强食的人；掠夺者；剥削者


predecessor

someone who had your job before you started doing it

Kennedy’s predecessor as president was the war hero Dwight Eisenhower.

肯尼迪总统的前任是战争英雄德怀特·艾森豪威尔。

a machine, system etc that existed before another one in a process of development

The new BMW has a more powerful engine than its predecessor.

新款宝马的发动机比其前身动力更强劲。


predetermined

[predetermine](bold) v. <T> eg: The colour of your eyes is predetermined by the colours of your parents’ eyes.

[predetermination](bold) /ˌpriːdɪtɜːməˈneɪʃ/ US /-ɜːr/  n. <U>

decided or arranged before something happens, so that it does not happen by chance


predict

You [predict ](bold) that something [will ](bold) happen: Experts predict that the economic situation will improve.

You [predicted](bold)  that something [would](bold)  happen: Experts predicted that the economic situation would improve.

You [predict](bold)  that something [might](bold)  or [could](bold)  happen: No one could have predicted that she might do something like that.

You say that something[ is predicted to](bold)  happen: The population is predicted to increase.

You say [it is predicted that ](bold) something [will ](bold) happen:It is predicted that the population will increase.

You say that someone[ is predicting](bold)  something. [Predict ](bold) is often used in the progressive: They are predicting another hot summer.

to say that something will happen, before it happens

In the future, it may be possible to predict earthquakes.

Scientists are trying to predict what the Amazon will look like in 20 years' time.

to say what is likely to happen in the future, especially in relation to the weather or the economic or political situation

Economists forecast that there would be a recession.

to say what the amount, size, cost etc of something is likely to be in the future, using the information you have now

The world’s population is projected to rise by 45%.

be able to know what will happen in the future

No one can say what the next fifty years will bring.

I can’t say exactly how much it will cost.

to say correctly what will happen in the future, using special religious or magical powers

The woman claimed that she had the gift of foretelling the future.

It all happened as the prophet had foretold.

to say that something will happen because you feel that it will, or by using special religious or magical powers

He’s one of those people who are always prophesying disaster.

The coming of a great Messiah is prophesied in the Bible.

He prophesied that the world would end in 2012.

Marx prophesied that capitalism would destroy itself.

to know that something is going to happen before it happens

They should have foreseen these problems.

to have a strange feeling that something is about to happen, especially something bad, usually just before it happens

Suddenly I had a strange premonition of danger ahead.

Sales were five percent lower than predicted.

Newspapers predicted that Davis would be re-elected.

报纸预测戴维斯将再次当选。

It is difficult to predict what the long-term effects of the accident will be.

很难预料这次事故将产生什么长远影响。

[As](bold) Liz [had predicted](bold), the rumours were soon forgotten.

正如利兹所预料的，流言很快就被淡忘了。

Unemployment is predicted to increase to 700,000 by the end of the year.

预计到年底失业人数将增至70万。


predictable

[predictably](bold) adv. <sentence adverb> eg: Predictably, no one was home when I called.

[predictability](bold) /prɪˌdɪktəˈbɪləti/  n. <U>

if something or someone is predictable, you know what will happen or what they will do – sometimes used to show disapproval

可预料的，可预见的〔有时含贬义〕

The snow had a predictable effect on traffic.

这场雪对交通造成的影响可以预见。


prediction

It is far too early to make predictions about the outcome of the inquiry.

They are now planning further tests to confirm their predictions.

Jane's prediction proved to be accurate.

(=one that you think is probably  right)

The situation is so uncertain that it is hard to make a confident prediction.

(=saying that something bad will happen)

There have been some gloomy predictions about the economy recently.

a statement about what you think is going to happen, or the act of making this statement

The data can be used to [make](bold) useful economic [predictions](bold).

这些数据可用于进行有用的经济预测。


predominantly

The city’s population is predominantly Irish.

该城市的人口绝大多数是爱尔兰人。


preface

an introduction at the beginning of a book or speech

〔书籍的〕序言，前言，绪言；〔演讲的〕开场白


preface

to say or do something before the main part of what you are going to say

作为 …的开端，作为 …的开场白

The book is prefaced by a quotation from Faulkner.

这本书引用了福克纳的一段话作为开场白。


prefer

You [prefer to](bold)  do something: I prefer to read a book.
Don’t say: [I prefer read a book](strike) .

You [prefer doing](bold)  something: We prefer going abroad for our vacation.
Don’t say: [We prefer go abroad](strike) .

You say that you [would prefer it if](bold)  someone [did](bold)  something: We would prefer it if you didn’t tell anyone.
Don’t say: [We would prefer it if you don’t tell anyone](strike) .

[Prefer](bold)  is not used in the progressive in meaning 1. You say: I prefer the blue one.
Don’t say: [I am preferring the blue one](strike) .

[past tense and past participle](italic) [preferred](bold) [present participle](italic) [preferring](bold)

to like someone or something more than someone or something else, so that you would choose it if you could

This type of owl prefers a desert habitat.

这种猫头鹰更喜欢沙漠的生活环境。

a child that prefers his imaginary world to reality

喜欢自己的幻想世界甚于现实世界的孩子

Employees said they would prefer more flexible working hours.

员工们说他们希望有更具弹性的工作时间。

I prefer to wear clothes made of natural fibers.

我更喜欢穿天然织物做的衣服。

Or, [if you prefer](bold), you can email us.

或者，你喜欢的话，可以给我们发电子邮件。

尚塔尔更喜欢乘火车旅行。

We prefer that our teachers have a degree in early childhood education.

我们希望我们的教师拥有儿童早期教育的学位。

In everyday English, people often say they [would rather](bold)  do something instead of using [prefer](bold) :

[I [prefer to](bold) travel by train.](strike)

used to say that you wish a situation was different

Sales have gone down, and obviously we’d prefer it if that didn’t happen.

销量下滑了，显然我们是不希望这样的。

used when telling someone politely not to do something

我希望〔用于礼貌地告诉别人不要做某事〕

I’d prefer it if you didn’t smoke in front of the children.

to make an official statement that someone has done something illegal


preferable

更好的，更合适的，更可取的

For this dish, fresh herbs and garlic are preferable.

做这道菜，用新鲜香草和大蒜更好。

In warm weather, clothes made of natural fabrics are [infinitely preferable](bold)(=much better).

天气暖和的时候，穿天然织物做的衣服要舒适得多。

Being taught in a small group is [far preferable](bold) to being in a large, noisy classroom.

小班听课比在闹哄哄的大教室里上课要强得多。


preferably

used in order to show which person, thing, place, or idea you think would be the best choice

Students must take two years of a foreign language, preferably Spanish.

学生们必须花两年时间学一门外语，最好是西班牙语。


preference

Do you have a preference for red or white wine?

He avoided expressing a preference for any of the remaining Democratic candidates.

Females showed a preference for long-tailed males.

In some countries, there is still a strong preference for sons.

There was a clear preference amongst the staff for this style of leadership.

The animals have a marked preference for woodland.

My personal preference is to eat meat only once or twice a week.

This partnership can take a variety of forms, depending on individual preferences.

Information about local consumer preferences can be used by a manufacturer's sales force.

Very young children may have clear food preferences.

Please list your choice of colleges in order of preference.

(=be something that you can choose, according to what you like)

Which one you decide to buy is just a matter of personal preference.

if you have a preference for something, you like it more than another thing and will choose it if you can

Do you [have](bold) a colour [preference](bold)?

你有什么颜色上的偏好吗？

Parents may be able to [express](bold) a [preference](bold) as to the school their child will attend.

家长也许可以表明更愿意让孩子就读哪所学校。

The amount of sugar you add will depend on [personal preference](bold).

加多少糖取决于个人喜好。

Many elderly people expressed a [strong preference](bold) to live in their own homes.

许多老年人强烈表示喜欢住在自己家里。

in preference to sth (=rather than something)

Use clear English in preference to technical language.

要用简明的英语，而不用专业术语。

when someone is treated more favourably than other people, often when he or she has been treated unfairly in the past

Racial preferences are a way to make up for years of discrimination against minorities.

种族优待政策是对多年来少数族裔所受歧视的一种补偿。

In allocating housing, preference is given to families with young children.

房屋优先分配给有年幼孩子的家庭。

someone’s sexual preference is whether they want to have sex with men or women


pregnancy

when a woman is pregnant has a baby growing inside her body

This drug should not be taken during pregnancy.

这种药妊娠期间不得服用。


pregnant

Sally became pregnant, and gave birth to a baby son.

(=make a woman pregnant, usually without planning to)

twelve weeks pregnant/two months pregnant etc

The doctor said that she was eight weeks pregnant.

(=having almost reached the time when you will give birth)

I saw at once that the woman was heavily pregnant.

if a woman or female animal is pregnant, she has an unborn baby growing inside her body

I thought I was too old to [get pregnant](bold).

我觉得自己年龄太大，已经不能怀孕了。

[twenty weeks/three months etc pregnant](bold)

Maria was pregnant with her second child.

玛丽亚怀着她的第二个孩子。

I didn’t mean to [get](bold) her [pregnant](bold)(=make her pregnant).

His wife was [heavily pregnant](bold)(=almost ready to give birth).

a pause or silence which is full of meaning or emotion

耐人寻味[意味深长]的停顿/沉默

He stopped, and there was a pregnant pause.

他停住了，那是个意味深长的停顿。

蕴涵丰富的 …，饱含 …

Every phrase in this poem is pregnant with meaning.

这首诗的片言只语都充满深意。


prejudice

the practice of treating one group of people differently from another in an unfair way

There is widespread discrimination against older people.

an unreasonable refusal to accept beliefs, customs, and ways of thinking that are different from your own

There is an atmosphere of intolerance in the media.

a completely unreasonable hatred for people of a different race, religion etc, based on strong and fixed opinions

the bigotry directed at Jews and other ethnic groups

unfair treatment of people because they belong to a different race

Many black people have been the victims of racism in Britain.

Some immigrant groups faced racism, for example Jews and Italians, while others, such as Scandinavians, did not.

the belief that one sex, especially women, is weaker, less intelligent etc than the other, especially when this results in someone being treated unfairly

unfair treatment of people because they are old

The new law aims to stop ageism in the workplace.

prejudice towards or hatred of gay people

a strong feeling of hatred toward Jewish people

the rise of Islamophobia and right-wing extremism in Europe

unfair public criticism of gay people, union members, the American government etc

The minister was accused of union bashing.

There's so much America-bashing in the liberal press.

someone who treats people of other races unfairly or badly

When he expressed his opinion, he was branded a racist.

someone who has strong unreasonable opinions, especially about race or religion

someone, especially a man, who believes that their sex is better, more intelligent, more important etc than the other

Will the sexists ever support a female president?

a novel about a young white boy who is forced to confront his racial prejudice

Those old class prejudices haven’t gone away.

(=prejudice that stops you from considering the facts)

I tried to show him he was just talking out of blind prejudice.

Women who want to work in broadcasting often encounter strong prejudice.

All these attitudes are based on deep-seated prejudice.

Students with learning difficulties often encounter prejudice.

the story of how a poor kid from the ghetto overcomes poverty and prejudice

prejudice against women/black people etc

There is still a lot of prejudice against women in positions of authority.

an unreasonable dislike and distrust of people who are different from you in some way, especially because of their race, sex, religion etc – used to show disapproval

〔尤指基于种族、性别、宗教等的〕偏见，成见，歧视

Women still face prejudice in the workplace.

女性在职场中仍然面临歧视。

It takes a long time to overcome these kinds of prejudices.

战胜这些偏见需要假以时日。

Asian pupils complained of racial prejudice at the school.

strong and unreasonable feelings which make you like some things but not others

Interviewers are often influenced too much by their personal prejudices.

面试官常常过多受到自身偏见的影响。

（对某事物）没有不利，无损（于某事物）

He was able to turn down the promotion without prejudice, and applied again several years later.

他能够在没有负面影响的情况下拒绝升职，并且在几年后再次申请。

in a way that has a harmful effect or influence on something

对某事物不利，有损于某事物


prejudice

to influence someone so that they have an unfair or unreasonable opinion about someone or something

There was concern that reports in the media would prejudice the jury.

有人担心媒体的报道会影响陪审团的公正性。

My own schooldays prejudiced me against all formal education.

to have a bad effect on the future success or situation of someone or something

A criminal record will [prejudice](bold) your [chances](bold) of getting a job.

犯罪记录会不利于你就业。

He refused to comment, saying he did not wish to [prejudice the outcome](bold) of the talks.

他拒绝发表评论，称不希望影响会谈结果。


prejudiced

having an unreasonable dislike of someone or something, especially a dislike of a group of people who belong to a different race, sex, or religion – used to show disapproval

有偏见的，有成见的，歧视的

Some officers were [racially prejudiced](bold).

The early Christian church was prejudiced against the Jews.

早期的基督教会对犹太人抱有偏见。

Environmentalists are prejudiced against the dam.

环境保护论者对那座水坝怀有成见。

The council must provide housing for young people whose welfare is seriously prejudiced.

市政会必须为那些生活状况受到严重威胁的年轻人提供住房。


preliminary

happening before something that is more important, often in order to prepare for it

the [preliminary stages](bold) of the competition

The discussions were preliminary to preparing a policy paper.

这些讨论是在为制定政策文件做准备。


preliminary

something that is said or done first, to introduce or prepare for something else

Pilot studies are a useful preliminary to large research projects.

试验性研究为大型研究项目做有效的初步准备。

After [the usual preliminaries](bold), the chairman made his announcement.

一段例行的开场白之后，主席发布了通告。

one of the games in the first part of a competition, when it is decided who will go on to the main competition

Four teams will be eliminated in the preliminaries.

预赛中将有四个队被淘汰。


premature

ˌpriːməˈtʃʊr◂

[prematurely](bold) adv. eg: The baby was born prematurely.

happening before the natural or proper time

a premature baby is born before the usual time of birth

那个婴儿早产了六个星期。

〔做事〕过早的，过快的；仓促的，草率的；不成熟的

现在谈论协议还为时过早。

It would be premature to accuse anyone until the investigation is complete.

调查结束之前谴责任何人都为时过早。


premier

[adj](bold) <[only before noun](bold)> [formal](special)


premier

总理，首相〔用于新闻报道〕


premise

the buildings and land that a shop, restaurant, company etc uses

〔商店、餐馆、公司等使用的〕房屋及土地

Schools may earn extra money by renting out their premises.

学校通过出租房屋场地可以获取额外收入。

The manager escorted him off the premises.

The wonderful desserts are made on the premises.

那些美味的甜点是现场制作的。

a statement or idea that you accept as true and use as a base for developing other ideas

The idea that there is life on other planets is the central premise of the novel.

其他星球存在生命这一观点是这部小说的核心前提。

the premise that an accused person is innocent until they are proved guilty

在证明有罪之前被告无罪的前提


premium

the cost of insurance, especially the amount that you pay each year

〔尤指每年缴付的〕保险费

an additional amount of money, above a standard rate or amount

Consumers are prepared to [pay a premium](bold) for organically grown vegetables.

消费者愿意多花钱购买有机蔬菜。

Top quality cigars are being [sold at a premium](bold).

if something is at a premium, people need it or want it, but there is little of it available or it is difficult to get

During the Olympic Games, accommodation will be at a premium.

奥运会期间住宿会很紧张。

Foldaway furniture is the answer where space is at a premium.

对于空间狭小的地方，折叠式家具能解决问题。

to consider one quality or type of thing as being much more important than others

Modern economies place a premium on educated workers.

现代经济尤其重视受过良好教育的工人。


premium

the current consumer trend for premium products

当前消费者喜欢购买优质产品的趋向

[premium quality](bold) British potatoes

premium prices and rates are higher than usual ones

People are prepared to pay premium prices for quality products.

人们愿意出高价购买优质产品。

Calls are charged at the premium rate of 60p per minute.

电话费很高，每分钟60便士。


preoccupation

priːˌɒkjəˈpeɪʃən

when someone thinks or worries about something a lot, with the result that they do not pay attention to other things

the current preoccupation with sex and scandal

The management’s preoccupation with costs and profits resulted in a drop in quality and customer service.

管理层过于追求成本效益和利润，导致产品质量和客户服务水平有所下降。

something that you give all your attention to

使人全神贯注的事物，使人入神的事物

Their main preoccupation was how to feed their families.

他们主要关心的是如何养家糊口。


preparation

Moving to a new house requires careful preparation.

Thorough preparation is the best way to do well in an exam.

(=extremely careful not to miss any details)

The robbery took place after months of meticulous preparation.

The game was good preparation for our match at Torquay next week.

You cannot go on a dangerous trip like this without adequate preparation.

He had obviously done no preparation for the meeting.

Important competitions need proper preparation.

(=used to say that something is being prepared)

the process of preparing something or preparing for something

This dish is good for dinner parties because much of the preparation can be done ahead of time.

这道菜适合宴会，因为很多准备工作可以事先做好。

Business training is a good preparation for any career.

无论何种职业，业务培训都为其打下了良好的基础。

do sth in preparation for sth (=in order to prepare for something)

He is practising every day, in preparation for the ice-skating championship.

为备战滑冰锦标赛，他每天都在练习。

Plans for the new school [are](bold) now [in preparation](bold).

新学校的设计图正在绘制中。

a course in food service and [food preparation](bold)

arrangements for something that is going to happen

Preparations for the upcoming Olympic Games are nearing completion.

奥运会即将举行，筹备工作已经临近尾声。

[Preparations](bold) are being [made](bold) for the president’s visit.

正在为迎接总统来访做准备工作。

The festival was a great success, and [preparations are underway](bold)(=have started) for another one next summer.

节庆活动举办得很成功，现在已经开始筹备明年夏天的下一届活动了。

a mixture that has been prepared and that is used for a particular purpose, especially as a medicine or to make your skin more attractive

a new preparation for cleansing the skin


prepare

to make plans or arrangements for something that will happen in the future so that you will be ready when it happens

He only had a few hours to prepare for the interview.

The family are preparing to move to Queensland.

to prepare for something. [Get ready](bold) is less formal than [prepare](bold) and is the usual phrase to use in everyday English

Smith has been busy getting ready for the race.

to prepare for an event that needs a lot of planning

The couple are making preparations for their wedding next year.

to prepare for an important event – used about companies, organizations, cities etc

Stores are gearing up for the busy Christmas shopping period.

The city is gearing up for the Olympics.

Groundsmen were preparing the pitch for tomorrow’s game.

to prepare something. [Get sth ready](bold) is less formal than [prepare](bold) and is the usual phrase to use in everyday English

They were getting the ship ready to sail.

to prepare equipment so that it is ready to be used

It will take a few minutes to set the camera up.

In everyday English, people usually say that someone [makes](bold)  a meal rather than [prepares](bold)  it:

Prepare the sauce while the pasta is cooking.

When we got home, Stephano was busy preparing dinner.

我们到家时斯特凡诺正忙着准备晚餐。

to write a document, make a programme etc

拟定〔文件〕；制作〔节目〕

Health and safety officers will investigate the site and prepare a report.

健康和安全官员将调查现场并拟定一份报告。

Green set himself the task of preparing a map of this remote area.

格林给自己定下任务: 给这个偏远地区绘制一张地图。

The 45-year-old explorer has been preparing for his latest expedition to the Arctic.

这位45岁的探险家一直在筹备最近的北极探险之行。

Her parents were busy preparing to go on holiday.

她的父母正忙于准备度假。

The prosecution wanted more time to prepare their case.

原告想要有更多的时间来准备诉讼。

In everyday English, people usually say that someone [gets ready](bold)  for something rather than [prepares](bold)  for it:

We’re [getting ready](bold) to move next week.

Prepare the soil, then plant the seedlings eight inches apart.

把土整平，然后每隔八英寸种一棵幼苗。

Coulthard’s team were up all night preparing the car for the race.

库特哈德的团队为了准备比赛用车彻夜未眠。

to make yourself mentally or physically ready for something that you expect to happen soon

使〔自己〕在思想[身体]上做好准备

The letter arrived, and we prepared ourselves for bad news.

信来了，我们做好了会有坏消息的心理准备。

Can you just give me a couple more moments to prepare myself?

你能不能再给我些时间让我做好心理准备？

[prepare yourself for a race/fight etc](bold)

The Chicago Bears are busy preparing themselves for the big game.

芝加哥熊队正忙于备战这场大赛。

Buy the album, and prepare to be amazed.

买下这张专辑，就等着感受惊喜吧。

to provide someone with the training, skills, experience etc that they will need to do a job or to deal with a situation

a course that prepares students for English examinations

帮助学生准备英语考试的课程

Schools should do more to prepare children for the world of work.

学校应该付出更多努力，让学生做好走入职场的准备。

What does a coach do to prepare his team for the Superbowl?

教练为让他的球队备战超级碗赛要做些什么？

to make it possible for something to be achieved, or for someone to succeed in doing something

为某人/某事物做好准备条件，为某人/某事物打好基础

Curie’s research prepared the way for the work of modern nuclear scientists.

居里的研究为现代核科学家的工作打下了基础。


prepared

to be willing to do something, especially something difficult or something that you do not usually do

愿意做某事〔尤指难做或通常不做的事〕

You have to be prepared to take risks in this kind of work.

做这种工作你必须准备好承担风险。

ready to do something or deal with a situation

I wasn’t prepared for all their questions.

他们的这些问题令我措手不及。

Luckily, we were well prepared for the storm.

幸运的是，我们对这次风暴有充分的准备。

[ill-prepared](bold)(=not ready to deal with a difficult situation)

The country was ill-prepared to fight another war.

There was no news and we were [prepared for the worst](bold)(=expected something very bad).

没有任何消息，我们做好了最坏的打算。

used when saying strongly that you refuse to do something

I’m not prepared to sit here and listen to this rubbish!

我可不愿意坐在这里听这些废话！

planned, made, or written at an earlier time, so that it is ready when it is needed

The president read out a [prepared statement](bold).

总统宣读了一份事先准备好的声明。