nostalgia

He didn't feel any nostalgia for his school days.

The immigrants I spoke to often had an intense nostalgia for their homeland.

I read the college newsletter with great nostalgia.

(=used when talking about good things from the past that are not mixed with things from the present)

It was an evening of pure nostalgia, as the band played hits from the 1940s.

Did it give you a sense of nostalgia to see the play on Broadway again?

She felt a pang of nostalgia for the time when they were all children.

As I drove into the city I felt a wave of nostalgia sweep over me.

(=a situation or experience that reminds you of events in the past)

Walking around campus was a great nostalgia trip for both of us.

The restaurant, which still has its 1930s décor, is a favorite with nostalgia buffs.

a feeling that a time in the past was good, or the activity of remembering a good time in the past and wishing that things had not changed

He looked back on his university days with a certain amount of nostalgia.

他带着一点留恋，回忆起大学时光。

a [wave of nostalgia](bold) for how great life was in the 1960s

一阵对20世纪60年代美好生活的强烈怀旧之情


nostalgic

[nostalgically](bold) /-kli/  adv. eg: Tim spoke nostalgically of his first visit to Peru.

if you feel nostalgic about a time in the past, you feel happy when you remember it, and in some ways you wish that things had not changed

Seeing those old school photographs has made me [feel](bold) quite [nostalgic](bold).

看到那些学生时代的旧照片，我不禁产生了怀旧之情。

a [nostalgic look](bold) back at the 1950s

对20世纪50年代的怀念

He remained nostalgic about his days as a young actor.

他一直怀念自己还是名年轻演员时的岁月。


nosy

[comparative](italic) [nosier](bold) [superlative](italic) [nosiest](bold)

always wanting to find out things that do not concern you, especially other people’s private affairs

好管闲事的，爱打听别人事情的


nosy

a thorough look around a place, especially somewhere that belongs to someone else and is private

〔尤指对属于他人之地或隐秘处所的〕彻底查看

I’d love to have a good old nosy in Josey’s room!

我想好好看看乔西的房间！


not

[not half](bold) at → [half](->half) 3 sense 6 [not to say](bold) at → [say](->say) 1 sense 43

Don’t use another negative word such as ‘no’, ‘nothing’, or ‘nobody’ after [not](bold) . Use [any](bold) , [anything](bold) , [anybody](bold)  etc. You say: They do [not](bold) have [any ](bold)money. I did[n’t](bold) know [anybody](bold).
Don’t say: [They do not have no money.](strike)  [I didn’t know nobody.](strike)

[Not](bold)  goes before ‘to’ in an infinitive verb. You say: I try [not to](bold) make mistakes.
Don’t say: [I try to not make mistakes.](strike)

used to make a word, statement, or question negative

不，没，不是〔用于把词语、陈述或问句等变为否定的意思〕

Most of the stores do not open until 10 am.

大多数商店要到上午10点才开始营业。

You were wrong not to inform the police.

你没有通知警方是错误的。

‘Can we go to the park?’ ‘No, not today, dear.’

“我们能去公园吗？”“不，今天不行，亲爱的。”

[not at all/not ... at all](bold)(=used to emphasize what you are saying)

那些变化根本不令人吃惊。

我一点也不喜欢他的态度。

used in order to make a word or expression have the opposite meaning

不，不是〔用于使词语或说法表示相反的意思〕

The food is [not very](bold) good there.

[not a lot/much/many etc](bold)(=only a few, only a little etc)

Most of the hotels are [not that](bold) cheap (=they are fairly expensive).

大多数宾馆没有那么便宜。

used instead of a whole phrase to mean the opposite of what has been mentioned before it

〔用来代替前面提到的整个语句，表示与其相反的意思〕

No one knows if the story is true [or not](bold).

I hope to see you tomorrow, but [if not](bold), leave me a message.

我希望明天和你见面，不过如果不行的话，给我留个口信。

‘Is Mark still sick?’ ‘I [hope not](bold).’

“马克还病着吗？”“希望没有。”

Shakespeare was not only a writer but also an actor.

莎士比亚不仅是个作家，还是位演员。

Not only do the nurses want a pay increase, they want reduced hours as well.

护士们不仅要求提高工资，还要求缩短工作时间。

Not one of the students knew the answer.

[Not a single](bold) person said thank you.

used before a sentence or phrase to mean the opposite of what follows it, and to make the previous sentence seem less important

并不 …〔用于表示前面的语句不太重要〕

Sarah has a new boyfriend – [not that I care](bold)(=I do not care).

萨拉找了个新男友——我并不在乎。

Janice had lost some weight, [not that it mattered](bold)(=it did not matter).

贾尼丝体重减轻了一些，不过那没什么。

used to be polite when someone has thanked you or asked you to do something

别客气；没问题；一点也不介意〔用于礼貌地回复别人的感谢或请求〕

‘Would you mind helping me with my suitcase?’ ‘Not at all.’

“你能帮我提一下手提箱吗？”“没问题。”

(also: [not the brightest crayon in the box](bold) )

([not the brightest bulb on the Christmas tree](bold) )

used to say that someone is not very intelligent or is not able to learn things quickly or easily – used humorously

〔某人〕并不是很聪明，学东西并不快〔幽默用法〕

used, especially by young people, to say that you really mean the opposite of what you have just said

才不是呢！〔尤为年轻人所用，表示与刚说的话相反的意思〕

I really enjoy spending my day working here – not!

我很喜欢白天在这儿上班——才不是呢！


notable

[adj](bold) <[usually before noun](bold)>

important, interesting, excellent, or unusual enough to be noticed or mentioned

显要的；显著的；值得注意的

A notable feature of the church is its unusual bell tower.

这座教堂的一个特别之处就是它那座与众不同的钟楼。

Every country in the world signed the treaty, with one [notable exception](bold) – the United States.

全世界每个国家都签署了那份条约，只有美国例外，很是显眼。

The town is notable for its busy open-air market.

该城镇因其热闹的露天市场而出名。


notably

used to say that a person or thing is a typical example or the most important example of something

Some early doctors, notably Hippocrates, thought that diet was important.

早期的一些医生，尤其是希波克拉底，认为饮食很重要。

in a way that is clearly different, important, or unusual

Emigration has notably increased over the past five years.

在过去五年中，移居国外的人明显增加。

Notably absent from his statement was any hint of an apology.

他的话里显然没有丝毫道歉的意思。


note

[compare notes](bold) at → [compare](->compare) 1 sense 5

As he read the letters, he made careful notes.

The reporter took notes throughout the interview.

The jurors were scribbling notes as the witness gave evidence.

(=write down what your notes say, using full sentences and more detail)

It’s a good idea to write up your notes soon after a lecture.

I read through my notes before the exam.

I always make quite detailed notes after important meetings.

She sat at the back of the hall and made copious notes.

Her rather scrappy notes weren’t much use when it came to revision.

(=notes that a student writes down during a lecture)

I missed class today; can I borrow your lecture notes?

(=notes that a doctor, social worker etc makes about someone)

The researchers looked at the case notes of 500 patients with this type of cancer.

(=notes that a doctor keeps about a patient)

I asked if I could see my medical notes.

something that you write down to remind you of something

Dave [made a note of](bold) her address and phone number.

戴夫记下了她的地址和电话号码。

[Keep a](bold) careful [note of](bold) any problems you have with the software.

仔细记录使用这个软件时碰到的任何问题。

to decide that you must remember to do something later

He made a mental note to arrange a time to meet her.

他提醒自己要安排一个时间和她见面。

information that a student writes down during a lesson, from a book etc

Can I borrow your [lecture notes](bold)?

我能不能借用一下你的课堂笔记？

I read the first chapter and took notes.

我阅读了第一章并作了笔记。

I was going to [write](bold) Kathy a [note](bold), but I decided to call her instead.

我原来准备给凯茜写个便条，但又决定还是打电话给她。

This is just a [quick note](bold) to let you know that I won’t be in the office tomorrow.

我写这封短笺是想告诉你们我明天不在办公室。

a [suicide note](bold)(=a note telling someone that you are going to kill yourself)

a [thank you note](bold)(=a note to say thank you for something)

[sick note](bold) BrE(=a note saying that you are too ill to go to work or school)

[delivery note](bold)(=a document showing that goods have been delivered)

[diplomatic note](bold)(=a formal letter from one government to another)

→ [credit note](->credit note) → [promissory note](->promissory note)

a short piece of writing at the bottom of a page or at the end of a book or document which gives more information about something written in the main part

〔页尾、书或文件后的〕注释，注解，评注

A set of guidance notes is provided to assist applicants in completing the form.

有填表须知帮助申请人填写表格。

a particular musical sound, or a symbol representing this sound

She has a good voice but has trouble hitting the high notes.

她嗓音很好，但唱高音有困难。

a piece of paper money worth a particular amount of money

a type of feeling or quality when someone speaks or does something

〔话语或行为中所含的〕感情色彩，特征

He brought a note of realism into the debate.

他给这场辩论带来一种务实的色彩。

on a ... note (=speaking in a particular way)

She ended her speech on a personal note.

她以亲切的语气结束了发言。

On a more serious note, I’d like to thank everyone for all their support.

说点严肃的，我想要感谢各位给予的所有支持。

to succeed or not succeed in being right and suitable for a particular occasion

Bush is hoping to hit the right note again with voters.

注意（到某事），留意（到某事）

People were beginning to take note of her talents as a writer.

人们开始注意到她的写作才能。

His first album made the music world [stand up and take note](bold).

他的第一张专辑引起了乐坛的反响和关注。

someone or something important, interesting, or famous

重要的[有意思的，著名的]人/物

The college has produced several architects of note.

这所学院出过好几位著名的建筑师。

The village has a number of buildings of note.

important or interesting and deserving particular attention

three recent novels that are especially worthy of note

最近出版的三本尤其值得关注的小说


note

to notice or pay careful attention to something

He carefully noted the time when they left the building.

他们离开大楼的时候，他特别留意了一下时间。

Please note that the bill must be paid within ten days.

请注意本账单必须在十天以内付清。

It should be noted that parking without a permit attracts a charge of £5.

提请注意：无停车许可者收费五英镑。

to mention something because it is important or interesting

The judge noted that Miller had no previous criminal record.

法官指出米勒没有犯罪前科。


notebook

a book made of plain paper on which you can write notes

a small computer that you can carry with you


nothing

[sweet nothings](bold) at → [sweet](->sweet) 1 sense 13 [to say nothing of](bold) at → [say](->say) 1 sense 45 [nothing on earth](bold) at → [earth](->earth) 1 sense 9

Don’t use [nothing ](bold)  with another negative word such as ‘not’. Use [anything](bold) . You say: I could [not](bold) find [anything](bold) suitable.
Don’t say: [I could not find nothing suitable.](strike)

这镇上从来都不会发生什么特别的事。

There was [nothing else](bold) the doctors could do.

We [know nothing about](bold) her family.

我们对她的家庭一无所知。

I couldn’t just stand by and [do nothing](bold).

I promised to [say nothing](bold) about it to anyone.

我答应这件事对谁也不说。

We’ve [heard nothing](bold) from her for weeks.

我们好几个星期没有她的音信了。

There’s [absolutely nothing](bold) to be ashamed of.

根本没有什么好难为情的。

‘Do you know much about business?’ ‘[Nothing at all](bold).’

“你对做生意了解得多吗？”“一窍不通。”

She had eaten [virtually nothing](bold) at supper.

There’s [nothing wrong](bold) with the data.

A brief search was made but they found [nothing untoward](bold).

他们简单地搜查了一番，没发现任何异常。

if you have nothing against someone or something, they do not annoy or offend you

something which is considered unimportant, not interesting, or not worth worrying about

‘What have you been doing?’ ‘Nothing. Just sitting here.’

“你都在干些什么？”“没干什么，只是在这里坐着。”

‘What did you do last weekend?’ ‘Oh, [nothing much](bold).’

“你上周末做了什么？”“嗯，没做什么事。”

Politics [meant nothing](bold)(=was not important) to me for years.

多年来，政治于我而言无关紧要。

The meal was [nothing special](bold)(=it was not unusual or interesting) – just fish with a cheese sauce.

那顿饭没什么特别的——就是鱼配干酪酱。

我们以十比零击败了他们。

if you have nothing to do with someone or something, or if someone or something has nothing to do with you, you are not involved or connected with it

与某人/某事毫不相干；与某人/某事无关

He said that he had nothing to do with the decision.

他说他和那个决定毫不相干。

I [want nothing to do with](bold)(=do not want to be involved) the whole thing.

我可不想牵扯到这件事里去。

My staff had [nothing whatsoever](bold) to do with this.

我的员工和这件事毫不相干。

without paying for something or being paid for something

Why pay a plumber when my brother will do it for nothing?

我弟弟就可以免费干，何必花钱去请管子工呢？

if you do something for nothing, you make an effort but do not get the result you want

我们白白走了那么远的路。

When a car has done that many miles, it’s worth nothing.

一辆车行驶了这么多里程，根本不值钱了。

There’s nothing like a hot bath after a day’s climbing.

爬了一天的山以后，没什么比得上好好泡个热水澡了。

used to say that what people are saying about someone or something is not true

It seems there’s nothing in the rumours that she’s pregnant.

看来关于她怀孕的说法是无稽之谈。

used to emphasize one good quality or feature that someone or something has, while suggesting that it might be the only good one

起码，至少〔用于强调某一好的特性或特征，但暗示这可能是唯一的优点〕

If nothing else, the report points out the need for better math education.

该报告起码指出了改进数学教育的必要性。

if a plan or action comes to nothing, it does not continue or does not achieve anything

〔计划或行动〕没有结果，终未实现

used to emphasize a particular quality that someone or something has

极其，非常〔用于强调某种特性〕

You’ve got to admit – he’s nothing if not persistent.

used to say that something is easy to do

〔做某事〕没有困难，很容易

Anyone can use a computer. There’s nothing to it!

人人都会用电脑，很简单的！

used when someone has thanked you a lot for something you have done for them

别放在心上，没什么〔用于回应他人的感谢〕

‘Thank you so much.’ ‘Oh, it was nothing.’

“太感谢你啦。”“哎呀，没什么。”

used to say strongly or angrily that something is not true or will not happen

绝对不行；绝对不可能〔用于严词否认或拒绝〕

‘I’ll pay.’ ‘You’ll do nothing of the sort!’

“我来付账。”“绝对不行！”

if someone has nothing on you, they are not better than you at something

She’s got nothing on you when it comes to writing.

说起写作，她可比不过你。

used when there is only one thing you can do in a particular situation

There was nothing for it but to go back the way we came.

我们除了原路返回，没有别的办法。


nothing

to have no qualities or features that are similar to someone or something else

(also: [be nothing short of sth](bold) )

used to emphasize that something or someone has a particular quality or seems to be something

简直是某事物；近乎某事物〔用于强调〕

His behaviour was nothing short of rudeness.


notice

to realize that something is there or that something is happening, because you can see, hear, or feel it

I noticed that he was rather quiet during dinner.

‘Julie’s home.’ ‘Yes, I noticed her bicycle outside.’

to notice something that is difficult to see, hear etc because it is very small, faint, or unclear. [Detect](bold) is used about people and machines, and is more formal than [notice](bold)

X-ray telescopes can now detect virtually every type of astronomical object.

He thought he detected a flicker of interest in her eyes.

to notice something, especially something that is difficult to see or that you see for a short time only. [Spot](bold) is more informal than [notice](bold)

Can you spot the difference between these two pictures?

I’m glad you spotted the mistake before it was too late.

to gradually begin to notice that something is happening or is true

I became aware that Mum was getting a lot older.

Tessa became conscious of a feeling of guilt.

to be able to notice something because you can see, smell, hear it etc

I could tell that she had been drinking.

used to say that you suddenly notice something or someone because they are interesting, attractive, or good at something

I saw this shirt in the shop window and it just caught my eye.

Clarke caught the eye of boss Bryan Robson when he scored for Newry last week.

to notice something as a result of watching or studying it closely

Psychologists observed that the mice became more aggressive in smaller cages.

to notice something, especially that something is happening, or is true, or needs to be done

The company quickly perceived the need for change.

Doctors perceive that they do not have adequate time to spend with their patients.

to see something happen because you are there at the time

People have witnessed some great economic changes during the last ten years.

to not notice something because it is difficult to see

It’s easy to miss the entrance – the sign is hidden behind a tree.

[v](bold) <[I,T not in progressive](bold)>

if you notice something or someone, you realize that they exist, especially because you can see, hear, or feel them

看到；听到；感觉到；注意（到）

He noticed a woman in a black dress sitting across from him.

他看到有位黑裙女子坐在他的对面。

你注意到他有什么变化了吗？

我注意到她的双手在颤抖。

He never seems to notice when people take advantage of him.

他好像从来都感觉不到别人在利用他。

She hadn’t noticed before quite how grey his hair was.

她以前没怎么注意到他的头发都白了那么多了。

Did you notice him leaving the party early?

你有没有注意到他提前离开了聚会？

[Notice](bold)  is not used in the progressive. You say: I notice you’re wearing glasses.
Don’t say: [I’m noticing you’re wearing glasses.](strike)

to get attention, or to make someone get attention

引起注意/使（某人）引人注目

These clothes will get you noticed and enhance your image.

这些衣服会让你引人注目，还能改善你的形象。

(also: [sb can’t help but notice sth](bold) )

if someone can’t help noticing something, they realize that it exists or is happening even though they are not deliberately trying to pay attention to it

I couldn’t help noticing the bruises on her arm.

我一眼就注意到她手臂上的瘀伤。


notice

[sit up (and take notice)](bold) at → [sit up](->sit up)

I began to take notice when the subject of money came up.

The other passengers took no notice of what was happening.

This problem first came to our notice last summer.

It had not escaped his notice that Phil seemed interested in Jean.

It has been brought to my notice that employees are smoking in the restrooms.

She didn’t want to attract notice, so she dressed very plainly.

To withdraw money from this type of savings account, you must give the bank 30 days’ notice.

They have served notice that they intend to take legal action against the company.

If I’d had more notice, I could have done a better job.

The company requires a month’s notice of any holiday time you would like to take.

(=an amount that is considered to be fair to everyone)

Did you receive reasonable notice of the court case?

ten days’/three months’/five minutes’ etc notice

His contract said he must give three months’ notice if he decides to leave the job.

Thank you for coming to help at such short notice.

He’d be ready to leave at a moment’s notice.

(=from now until you are told something else)

On the door was a sign: ‘Library closed until further notice’.

(=a warning that you must leave the house or flat where you live by a particular date)

The new owner gave all the tenants notice to quit.

when you notice or pay attention to someone or something

I waved but they [took no notice](bold).

我挥了挥手，可是他们没有注意到。

[not take any/much notice (of sth)](bold)

I did not take much notice of her suggestions.

I hope you’ll [take notice](bold) of what I’m going to tell you.

我希望你留心听我下面要对你讲的话。

This problem may have [escaped](bold) your [notice](bold) so far (=you may not have noticed it).

可能你还没有注意到这个问题。

This never [came to](bold) my [notice](bold)(=I never knew about this).

我从来没有注意到这一点。

There are several important matters that I’d like to [bring to](bold) your [notice](bold)(=that I would like you to know about).

有几件重要的事我想提醒你注意。

a written or printed statement that gives information or a warning to people

The notice on the wall said ‘No smoking’.

墙上的告示写着“禁止吸烟”。

[obituary notices](bold)(=about people who have just died) in the newspaper

information or a warning about something that is going to happen

These rules are subject to change without notice.

这些规则如有更改，恕不另行通知。

They didn’t [give](bold) me sufficient [notice](bold).

他们没给我充分的准备时间。

When you’re on the mailing list, you’ll receive advance notice of upcoming events.

如果你在我们的邮寄名单上，你会收到即将举办的活动的预告。

[ten days’/three months’ etc notice](bold)(=a warning ten days etc before)

They closed the factory, giving the workers only a week’s notice.

他们把工厂关了，只提前一周通知工人。

Firefighters were prepared to rush out [at a moment’s notice](bold).

消防队员准备着随时出动。

his failure to [give notice](bold) of his intention to alter the property

他未能通告改造房产的意图

I’ve been given [notice to quit](bold) my flat (=I have been told that I must leave by a certain date).

我接到通知，限期搬出公寓。

Union members [served](bold) strike [notice](bold)(=warned that they would go on strike) late last night.

昨天深夜，工会会员正式发出罢工警告。

from now until another change is announced

The office is closed until further notice.

本办事处停止营业，直至另行通知。

to tell your employer that you will be leaving your job soon

([on short notice](bold) ([AmE](bold)) )

if you do something at short notice, you do not have very much time to prepare for it

Thanks for agreeing to see me at such short notice.

谢谢你在这么短时间内同意见我。

a cancellation [at very short notice](bold)

a statement of opinion, especially one written for a newspaper or magazine, about a new play, book, film etc

〔尤指报刊上对新剧、新书、新电影等的〕评价，评论，短评

The new play got [mixed notices](bold)(=some good, some bad) in the newspapers.

那出新剧受到了各家报纸褒贬不一的评价。


noticeable

[noticeably](bold) adv. eg: She has become noticeably more confident. eg: The children were noticeably affected by the divorce.

容易注意到的，明显的，显著的

Alcohol has a noticeable effect on the body.

酒精对身体有明显的影响。

[It was noticeable that](bold) many of them avoided answering the question.

显而易见，他们中的许多人对这个问题都避而不答。


noticeboard

ˈnəʊtəsˌbɔːd

a special board on a wall which notices can be fastened to


notify

[past tense and past participle](italic) [notified](bold) [present participle](italic) [notifying](bold) [third person singular](italic) [notifies](bold)

to formally or officially tell someone about something

You will be notified of any changes in the system.

系统中有任何变化都会通知你。

In August we were notified that our article had been rejected.

8月份我们接到通知，说我们的文章未被采用。


notion

He didn’t have a clear notion of what he had to do.

Probably 95% of scientists now accept the notion that human activity is causing climate change.

There is no evidence to support the notion that girls are treated better than boys in school.

(=make an idea stronger or easier to believe)

The research reinforces the notion that fathers have an important role in their children’s lives.

Copernicus challenged the notion that the Sun goes around the Earth.

Aristotle rejected the notion that the body and the soul are separate.

He had only a vague notion of what might happen next.

They had the ridiculous notion that they could make a living from singing.

You cannot rate the project according to a simple notion of ‘value for money’: there are too many factors involved.

In art, how can you represent abstract notions such as peace or justice?

(=one that is based on how you want something to be, not how it is in real life)

He rejected the romantic notion of rugby as a game for gentlemen.

(=an idea that you have before you have enough knowledge or experience)

The police were accused of twisting the evidence to meet their preconceived notion of his guilt.

These women challenged accepted notions of female roles in society.

(=used to emphasize that you are talking about a lot of related ideas, not just one specific idea)

The movie makes us question the whole notion of what makes a hero.

(=not know or understand something at all)

He had not the foggiest notion how far he might have to walk.

The traditional notion of marriage goes back thousands of years.

传统的婚姻观念可追溯到几千年以前。

She had only a [vague notion](bold) of what she wanted to do.

她对自己想做什么只有一个模糊的概念。

the notion that human beings are basically good

She [had no notion](bold) what he meant.

她根本不明白他是什么意思。

[accept/challenge/reject etc a notion](bold)

他们拒绝接受群体内疚的概念。

small things such as thread and buttons that are used for sewing


notorious

[notoriously](bold) adv. eg: Statistics can be notoriously unreliable. eg: The program is notoriously difficult to learn.

a judge notorious for his cruelty and corruption

一位因残忍和腐败而臭名远扬的法官


notwithstanding

Notwithstanding differences, there are clear similarities in all of the world’s religions.

世界上的宗教尽管各不相同，但都有明显的相似之处。

Fame and fortune notwithstanding, Donna never forgot her hometown.

尽管名利双收，但唐娜从未忘记自己的家乡。


noun

→ [common noun](->common noun) → [count noun](->count noun) → [proper noun](->proper noun)

a word or group of words that represent a person (such as ‘Michael’, ‘teacher’, or ‘police officer’), a place (such as ‘France’ or ‘school’), a thing or activity (such as ‘coffee’ or ‘football’), or a quality or idea (such as ‘danger’ or ‘happiness’). Nouns can be used as the subject or object of a verb (as in ‘The teacher arrived’ or ‘We like the teacher’) or as the object of a preposition (as in ‘good at football’).


novel

a long written story in which the characters and events are usually imaginary

It took Vikram Seth three years to write his 1,349-page novel ‘A Suitable Boy’.

维克拉姆·塞斯花费三年时间写成了他那部1,349页的小说《如意郎君》。


novel

not like anything known before, and unusual or interesting


novelty

At that time, air travel was still a novelty to many people.

(=something stops seeming new and interesting)

Once the novelty had worn off he didn't play with his train set much.

At that time, cars were still something of a novelty.

In the 1970s, a woman sports reporter was quite a novelty.

You can attend the recording of the show, and get the added novelty of watching a radio programme being made.

(=used when emphasizing how new and different something seems)

Few pieces of music can match the sheer novelty of Sibelius's Sixth Symphony.

(=the extra interest that something receives because it is new)

The car still sells well, though the novelty value has worn off.

(=a performance that is unusual and different)

Mike Michaels the Mechanical Magician was one of the best novelty acts I've seen.

the quality of being new, unusual, and interesting

Many toys have no attraction beyond their [novelty value](bold).

许多玩具除了有些新奇感之外，别无吸引力。

It was fun for a while, but [the novelty wore off](bold)(=it became boring).

有一阵很好玩，可是新鲜感随后便消失了。

something new and unusual which attracts people’s attention and interest

Then the Internet was still something of a novelty.

那时因特网还是个挺新鲜的东西。

an unusual small cheap object, often given as a present

可供选购的各种新鲜玩意儿和T恤衫


November

[n](bold) <[C,U](bold)> written abbreviation: Nov.

the 11th month of the year, between October and December

他去年11月开始在这里工作。

The final will be played on Sunday November 6th.

决赛将于11月6日星期天举行。

Five weeks later, on 6th November, they were secretly married.

五周之后的11月6日，他们秘密结婚了。

There will be no performance November 6.


now

The population is much larger now than it used to be.

now – used when describing what a situation is like

Currently, the starting salary is around £20,000.

now – used when talking about a short period of time, after which the situation is likely to change

I think she’s at lunch at the moment – can I ask her to call you back?

At the moment I’m working in a restaurant, but I’m hoping to go to college.

now – used when you do not expect something that is true now to be permanent

Many areas are inaccessible at present due to heavy snow.

The official currency is the crown, presently about 30 to the dollar.

now – used when a situation is likely to change, especially because an arrangement is only temporary

You can stay here for the time being, until you find a flat.

There’s nothing I can do about this [right now](bold)(=exactly now).

Sonia should have been home by now. Do you think she’s OK?

索尼娅现在应该到家了。你觉得她没事吧？

Until now, doctors have been able to do very little to treat this disease.

直到现在，医生对这种疾病几乎无能为力。

Please try to be more careful [from now on](bold)(=starting from now).

从现在开始请尽量加倍小心。

Just leave your shoes on the back porch for now.

就暂时把你的鞋子留在后门廊吧。

[just now](bold) especially BrE(=at the present time)

There are a lot of bargains in the shops just now.

商店里现在有许多便宜货出售。

铃声已经响了，立即停笔。

If we leave now, we’ll be there before dark.

如果我们现在出发，天黑之前就能赶到那里。

used when you know or understand something because of something you have just seen, just been told etc

Having met the rest of the family, she now saw where he got his temper from.

见到他家里的其他人之后，她这才明白他的脾气是从哪儿来的。

used to say how long ago something started

They’ve been going out together for a long time now.

他们至今已交往很长时间了。

It’s been over five years now since I started working here.

我在这儿工作至今已经五年多了。

It’s now a month since we bought the car and it’s broken down three times already.

这辆车我们买了才一个月，已经坏过三次了。

used when getting someone’s attention before continuing what you are saying or changing the subject

好了〔用于在继续说话或改变话题前引起别人的注意〕

Now, let’s move on to the question of payment.

好了，我们接着来谈谈付款的问题吧。

used at the beginning of a sentence when asking for information

呃，你刚才说你叫什么名字？

used when pausing when you are thinking what to say next

好，嗯〔在说话过程中停下来思索时用〕

Now, let’s see, oh yes – they wanted to know what time you’ll be back on Friday.

嗯，让我想想，噢，对了——他们想知道你星期五什么时候回来。

used to say that if the situation was different, something different would happen

反过来，不过〔用于假设〕

Now if I’d been in charge there’s no way I’d have let them use the van.

不过如果是我负责的话，我决不会让他们用那辆小货车的。

used to make someone calm, or comfort them when they are angry, upset etc

好了，好了〔用于安慰别人〕

used when telling or reminding someone to do something

这下〔用于告诉或提醒某人做某事〕

好了，快点！我可没有太多时间。

Don’t forget now, you have a dental appointment Thursday afternoon.

这下可别忘了，你约好了星期四下午要去看牙。

used to get someone’s attention before telling them to do something or asking them a question

喂，听着〔用于引起别人的注意〕

Now then, what seems to be the problem here?

Now then, try to sit up and have some of this soup.

来，试着坐起来喝点这汤。

used when giving an opinion or asking someone to tell you something

听着，说吧〔用于发表意见或要求别人告知某事〕

Well now, what’s all this I hear about you getting married?

说吧，我听说你要结婚了，这到底是怎么回事？

used when saying what you are going to do next

Thanks, Norma, and now for a look at tomorrow’s weather.

谢谢，诺尔玛，接下来看看明天的天气情况。

used when introducing the next activity, performer etc

接下来，下面〔用于介绍下一个活动或表演者等〕

And now, live from New York, it’s David Letterman!

下面，请看来自纽约的直播节目，大卫•莱特曼！

used to make someone calm or comfort them when they are angry, upset etc

好了，好了〔用于安慰别人〕

Now now, don’t worry. Everything will be okay.

好了，好了，别担心，一切都会好的。

used when telling someone not to behave badly

行了，得了〔用于劝阻别人〕

used to tell someone that you do not want to talk to them or do something now, because you are busy, tired etc

‘Tell me a story.’ ‘Not now, Daddy’s working.’

“给我讲个故事吧。”“现在不行，爸爸在工作呢。”

used when an attempt to do something has failed and you do not know what to do next

Kate tried each of the keys, but none of them fit. ‘Now what?’ she thought.

凯特试了每一把钥匙，但都开不开。“现在该怎么办呢？”她想。

used to tell someone that you agree very much with what they are saying

你说得对〔用于表示同意〕

‘Feel like going out for a beer?’ ‘Now you’re talking.’

“想出去喝杯啤酒吗？”“好啊。”

used to say that if someone does not do something now, they will not get another chance to do it

Quite suddenly, her mind was made up. It was now or never.

突然间她下定了决心。机不可失，时不再来。

used to say that someone should do something now, because it is the right time to do it

现在正是（某人）做某事的时候

Now’s the time to buy a car, while the interest rates are low.

趁现在利率很低，正是买车的时候。

used when you are annoyed because someone keeps interrupting you or asking you things

又怎么了？〔表示因频频受到烦扰而生气〕

‘Mom, can you come here for a minute?’ ‘What is it now?’

“妈妈，你过来一下好吗？”“又怎么啦？”

used when you are annoyed or amused because someone has just told you something they should have told you before

‘You didn’t need to make anything for dinner – Dad’s bringing home pizza.’ ‘Oh, now you tell me!’

“你其实不用做晚饭的，爸爸晚上带比萨饼回家。”“你为什么不早说呀！”

used to say that at one moment someone or something does one thing and immediately after, they do something else

The eagle glided through the sky, now rising, now falling.

那只雕在空中滑翔，时而腾空，时而俯冲。


now

also: [=now that](bold)  [conjunction](bold)

because of something or as a result of something

Now that we know each other a little better, we get along fine.

由于彼此之间有了进一步了解，我们相处得不错。

I’m going to relax now the school year is over.

学年结束了，我想放松一下。

Now that I think of it, I acted the same way when I was his age.

我记得我在他这个年纪也是这样的。


nowadays

now, compared with what happened in the past

〔与过去相比〕现今，现时

Nowadays people are rarely shocked by the sex they see on television.

Most people nowadays are aware of the importance of a healthy diet.

现在大多数人都明白健康饮食的重要性。


nowhere

Don’t use [nowhere ](bold)  with another negative word such as ‘not’. Use [anywhere](bold) . You say: You must [not](bold) smoke [anywhere](bold) in the building.
Don’t say: [You must not smoke nowhere in the building.](strike)

我没有工作，也没有地方住。

Nowhere is drug abuse more of a problem than in the US.

The proposal went nowhere in the Senate.

该提议在参议院毫无结果。

He was getting nowhere with the Bentley case.

他在本特利案件上没有获得任何进展。

A negative attitude will get you nowhere.

消极的态度会让你一无所成。

I soon realized that being tough was [getting](bold) me [nowhere fast](bold)(=was not helping me achieve anything).

我很快就意识到态度强硬只会一无所获。

to not be in a place, or not be seen or found there

Typical – another street crime and the police are nowhere to be seen.

总是这样，又一宗街头罪案，而警察却不见踪影。

He swore he was nowhere near her house on the night she died.

他发誓说在她死的当夜，他根本不在她家附近。

[nowhere near ready/full/finished etc](bold)

She’s [nowhere near as](bold) pretty [as](bold) you are.

happening or appearing suddenly and without warning

In the last few seconds, Gunnell came from nowhere to win another gold medal.

在最后几秒钟里，甘内尔突然发力，又赢得了一枚金牌。

From out of nowhere he asks me to marry him!


nuclear

relating to or involving the nucleuscentral part of an atom, or the energy produced when the nucleus of an atom is either split or joined with the nucleus of another atom

France’s reliance on [nuclear energy](bold)

relating to or involving the use of weapons that use nuclear energy

concern about the country’s nuclear weapons program

With the collapse of the former Soviet Union, the possibility of a [nuclear holocaust](bold)(=a nuclear war that destroys much of the Earth) was greatly reduced.

随着苏联的解体，核浩劫爆发的可能性大大降低。


nude

I did some work as a [nude model](bold) when I was in college.

Have you ever [posed nude](bold)(=been photographed or painted while nude)?

done by or involving people who are not wearing any clothes

There are several [nude scenes](bold) in the film.

I have no desire to go to a [nude beach](bold)(=a beach where people wear no clothes).

a pale pink-brown colour – used in fashion


nude

a painting,statue etc of someone not wearing clothes

裸体艺术品〔如人体画、人体雕塑等〕

裸体的[地]，赤裸的[地]


nuisance

a person, thing, or situation that annoys you or causes problems

讨厌[麻烦]的人[事物，情况]

[a real/awful/terrible etc nuisance](bold)

隔壁的那几只狗实在是讨厌。

What a nuisance! I’ve forgotten my ticket.

[I hate to be a nuisance .../Sorry to be a nuisance ...](bold)

I hate to be a nuisance, but could you move your car to the other side of the street?

我不想给你添麻烦，不过你能不能把你的车挪到路那边去？

Stop [making a nuisance of yourself](bold)(=annoying other people with your behaviour)!

[It’s a nuisance](bold) having to get up that early on a Sunday morning.

星期天早上还得那么早起床，真烦人。

the use of a place or property in a way that causes public annoyance

The nightclub has been declared a [public nuisance](bold).

那家夜总会已被判定妨害公众利益。


numb

[numbly](bold) adv. eg: She watched numbly as Matt walked away.

[numbness](bold) n. <U> eg: It caused some numbness in my hand.

a part of your body that is numb is unable to feel anything, for example because you are very cold

〔身体部位〕麻木的，失去感觉的

My fingers were so numb I could hardly write.

我的手指麻木得几乎没法写字。

The anaesthetic made his whole face [go numb](bold).

麻醉剂使他整个脸都失去了知觉。

unable to think, feel, or react in a normal way

〔思维、感觉或反应〕迟钝的，呆滞的

我呆坐在那里，吓得动弹不得。


numb

to make someone unable to feel pain or feel things they are touching

to make someone unable to think, feel, or react in a normal way

He was numbed by the shock of his wife’s death.

妻子去世的巨大打击使他变得很呆滞。


number

(=a number you think gives you good luck)

You can’t work in pairs if you’ve got an odd number of people.

Maths is easier if you are dealing with positive numbers.

Can a negative number have a square root?

(=a number such as 13 that can be divided only by itself and 1)

(=a number such as 1, 2, or 3 that shows how many of something there are)

Numbers go on to infinity, so there is no last cardinal number.

(=a number such as 1st, 2nd, or 3rd that shows where something comes in a series or list)

The children learn about position and ordinal numbers when they stand in a line.

Add the two numbers together and divide by three.

Write all the numbers down, then add them up.

What happens if you multiply a positive number by a negative number?

You can’t divide a prime number by any other number, except 1.

A large number of children were running around in the playground.

There seems to be no reason for the high number of suicides.

He received a substantial number of votes.

A considerable number of students left after the first year.

He has written a good number of books for children.

The class had only a small number of students.

the low numbers of women involved in sports coaching

A limited number of copies were printed.

Only a tiny number of these animals remain in the wild.

An increasing number of women are entering the profession.

As you improve, increase the number of times you do each exercise.

We need to reduce the number of cars on the road.

The number of mobile phones has increased dramatically.

The number of road accidents has doubled in the last ten years.

a number falls/drops/goes down/decreases/declines

The number of new houses being built is falling steadily.

The number of children failing at school has halved in recent years.

There have been any number of magazine articles about the celebrity couple.

This will bring the number of jobs lost at the company to 85.

a word or sign that represents an exact amount or quantity

They wrote various numbers on a large sheet of paper.

他们在一张大纸上写下了很多不同的数字。

[a round number](bold)(=one ending in 0)

A hundred pounds is a good round number.

我的新电话号码是502-6155。

我给了他我家的电话号码。

你的移动电话号码是多少？

Sorry, you have [the wrong number](bold).

a number used to show the position of something in an ordered set or list

→ [E number](->E number) → [No. 10](->No. 10) → [number one](->number one) 1

a set of numbers used to name or recognize someone or something

Did you get the number (=[registration](bold,->registration) number) of the car?

你记下那辆车的车牌号码了吗？

→ [box number](->box number) → [PIN](->PIN) → [serial number](->serial number)

an amount of something that can be counted

The number of cars on our roads rose dramatically last year.

去年道路上的汽车数量剧增。

We have been friends for a number of years.

我们已经是多年的朋友了。

The condors have dwindled to an estimated sixty in number.

You use a singular verb after [the number of](bold) : [The number of](bold) people [is](bold) increasing.

You use a plural verb after [a number of](bold) (= several) : [A number of](bold) issues [ were](bold) discussed.

how many people there are, especially people attending an event or doing an activity together

〔尤指参加某一活动的〕人数

你能告诉我一个大致的人数吗？

游客人数在夏季有所增加。

The [sheer weight of numbers](bold)(=large number of people) on stage made the performance more impressive.

庞大的演员阵容使演出更加令人难忘。

a piece of popular music that forms part of a longer performance

〔演出中的〕一首流行乐曲

Madonna sang several numbers from her latest album.

麦当娜唱了她最新专辑中的几首歌曲。

→ [production number](->production number)

a copy of a magazine or newspaper printed on a particular date

I was reading the latest number of ‘Surfing’.

我在看最近一期的《冲浪》。

[back numbers](bold)(=old copies) of ‘The Times’

to understand something about someone that helps you deal with them

对某人心中有数，摸透某人的底

a black, elegant  etc dress or suit, especially a woman’s

〔尤指女性穿的〕黑色/高贵等的礼服

someone has the winning number in a competition

(also: [sb’s number has come up](bold) )

used to say that someone will stop being lucky or successful

used to say that someone will die – used humorously

某人死期将到〔幽默用法〕

She told her husband she didn’t mind going when her number was up.

她跟丈夫说如果她气数已尽，要走就走吧。

information about something that is shown using numbers

克里斯，你拿到数据了吗？

an illegal game in the US in which people risk money on the appearance of a combination of numbers in a newspaper

数字（彩票）赌博〔美国的一种非法游戏，就报纸上出现的某种数字组合下赌注〕

if you do something by numbers, you do it in a basic way by following a set of simple instructions – used to show disapproval

按简单指令进行〔含贬义〕

The last thing we want is teaching by numbers.

我们最不想要的就是死板的教学方法。

to hurt or damage someone or something badly

严重伤害[损坏]某人/某物

Tod really did a number on the old house. I don’t envy the new tenants.

托德把那所老房子搞得一塌糊涂，真庆幸我不是下一个租户。

if things are beyond number, there are so many of them that no one could count them all

[one/two/several etc of our/their number](bold)

Only three of our number could speak Italian.

我们当中只有三个人会说意大利语。

They wanted to choose a leader from [among their](bold) own [number](bold).

他们想在自己人当中选出一位首领。

the form of a word, depending on whether one thing or more than one thing is being talked about

‘Horses’ is plural in number, while ‘horse’ is singular.


number

to give a number to something that is part of an ordered set or list

They haven’t numbered the pages of the report.

All the seats in the theatre are numbered.

剧场里的所有座位都编了号。

Each check is [numbered consecutively](bold).

每张支票都是按连续的数字编号。

[number sth (from) 1 to 10/100 etc](bold)

把这些问题从1到25编号。

if people or things number a particular amount, that is how many there are

The population of the town numbered about 5,000.

镇上的人口大约为5,000。

The men on strike now number 5% of the workforce.

罢工人数目前约占工人总数的5%。

used to say that someone or something cannot live or continue for much longer

某人生命垂危；某人活着/某事物存在的日子屈指可数

I knew my days were numbered at that firm.

我明白我在那家公司的日子屈指可数了。

to be included as one of a particular group

被认作[算作]某一团体中的一员

He was a successful corporate lawyer who numbered among his clients JP Morgan and Standard Oil.

他是一位成功的公司法律顾问，摩根大通集团和标准石油公司都是他的客户。


numerical

用数字表示的；数字的；数值的

The home team tried to utilize their numerical advantage (=the fact that they had more players than the other team).

主队试图利用他们在人数上的优势。

Make sure the files are organized [in numerical order](bold).

务必把这些档案按数字顺序排列。


numerous

Numerous attempts have been made to hide the truth.

为掩盖事实作了很多尝试。

The two leaders have worked together on [numerous occasions](bold).

那两位领导人已经多次合作。

The individuals who have contributed to this book are far too numerous to mention.

为本书做过贡献的人不胜枚举。

In everyday English, people usually say [a lot of](bold)  rather than [numerous](bold) :

There were [a lot of](bold) mistakes in his essay.


nurse

→ [nursery nurse](->nursery nurse) → [wet nurse](->wet nurse)

someone whose job is to look after people who are ill or injured, usually in a hospital

The nurse is coming to give you an injection.

a student nurse (=someone who is learning to be a nurse)

a psychiatric nurse (=a nurse for people who are mentally ill)

→ [district nurse](->district nurse) → [staff nurse](->staff nurse)

a woman employed to look after a young child


nurse

to look after someone who is ill or injured

他一直在照顾一位年老的亲戚。

After Ray’s operation, Mrs Stallard [nursed](bold) him [back to health](bold).

雷接受手术后，斯托拉德夫人照料他恢复了健康。

She spent several years nursing in a military hospital.

她在一家军队医院里当了几年护士。

to rest when you have an illness or injury so that it will get better

Shaw has been nursing an injury, and will not play on Sunday.

肖一直在养伤，星期天上不了场。

[Nurse](bold)  is never passive in this meaning.

if a woman nurses a baby, she feeds it with milk from her breasts

information on nutrition for nursing mothers

关于哺乳期母亲所需营养的信息

if a baby nurses, it sucks milk from its mother’s breast

to keep a feeling or idea in your mind for a long time, especially an angry feeling

[nurse a grudge/grievance/ambition etc](bold)

For years he had nursed a grievance against his former employer.

多年来他一直对前雇主心怀不满。

to take special care of something, especially during a difficult situation

〔尤指在困难时期〕精心照料，打理

He bought the hotel in 1927 and managed to nurse it through the Depression.

他于1927年买下那家宾馆并精心打理，使之度过了大萧条时期。

if you nurse a drink, especially an alcoholic one, you drink it very slowly

慢慢地喝〔尤指酒精饮料〕

Oliver sat at the bar, nursing a bottle of beer.

奥利弗坐在酒吧里，慢慢地喝着一瓶啤酒。

to hold something carefully in your hands or arms close to your body

小心地捧[抱]着；爱惜地搂抱


nursery

a place where young children are taken care of during the day while their parents are at work

a place where plants and trees are grown and sold

education etc for young children from three to five years old

幼儿园教育/幼儿园机构/幼儿园教师等

a room in a hospital where babies that have just been born are looked after

a baby’s bedroom or a room in a house where young children play


nursery rhyme

a short traditional poem or song for children


nursing

the job or skill of looking after people who are ill, injured, or old

护士[护理]工作；护士[护理]技巧


nut

a dry brown fruit inside a hard shell, that grows on a tree

We were sitting round the fire [cracking nuts](bold)(=opening them).

我们围坐在火炉边夹坚果。

a small piece of metal with a hole through the middle which is screwed onto a bolt to fasten things together

someone who is crazy or behaves strangely

someone who is very interested in golf etc

You don’t have to be a sports nut to enjoy skiing.

就算你不是运动迷，也能体会到滑雪的乐趣。

the practical details of a subject or job

某事的基本[实质性]要点

He may have softened a bit in his old age but he’s still a tough nut.

他年老之后可能变得温和了一些，但还是个刺头。

Celtic have lost only once this season and will be a tough nut to crack.

凯尔特人队本赛季只输过一场，不好对付。

I didn’t get home till three – my mum did her nut!

我3点钟才到家，妈妈都气炸了！

Oh come on, [use](bold) your [nut](bold)!


nut

[v](bold) <[T](bold)> ([BrE](special)) [spoken](special)

[past tense and past participle](italic) [nutted](bold) [present participle](italic) [nutting](bold)

他干脆转过身来用头撞我！


nutrient

a chemical or food that provides what is needed for plants or animals to live and grow

The plant absorbs nutrients from the soil.


nutrition

the process of giving or getting the right type of food for good health and growth

Nutrition and exercise are essential to fitness and health.

营养和运动是保持健康所必不可少的。

Poor nutrition can cause heart disease in later life.

营养不良可能会在晚年引发心脏病。

the science that deals with the effects of food, vitamins etc on people’s health


nutritional

relating to the substances in food that help you to stay healthy

Cooking vegetables for too long lessens their [nutritional value](bold).

烹饪蔬菜时间过长有损其营养价值。

the nutritional requirements of pregnant women


nylon

a strong artificial material that is used to make plastics, clothes, rope etc

women’s stockings that are made of nylon

〔妇女的〕尼龙长袜，连裤袜


oak

a large tree that is common in northern countries, or the hard wood of this tree


oath

As children, they took an oath of friendship.

I do not expect you to violate your oath.

These chiefs were bound to him by oaths of loyalty.

They swore an oath of allegiance to the crown.

Anyone who joined had to swear an oath of secrecy.

(=the oath a government worker swears to do a job honestly and well)

Stephen swore a sacred oath to recognise Matilda as Queen.

the oldest person ever to take the presidential oath for the first time

(=sworn by a king or queen when they are crowned)

[oath of loyalty/allegiance/obedience etc](bold)

Servicemen have to swear an oath of loyalty to their country.

The president took the [oath of office](bold)(=made the official public promises that every president makes when starting their job).

a formal promise to tell the truth in a court of law

〔在法庭上的〕誓词，誓言

Witnesses are required to [take the oath](bold)(=make this promise).

an offensive word or phrase that expresses anger, surprise, shock etc

He was shouting out oaths as they led him away.

他们把他带走时，他一直大声咒骂。


obedience

(=when you obey rules or a person without thinking about why)

I followed my father's commands with blind obedience.

(=when you obey rules or a person without questioning whether they are right)

Even soldiers must not follow all orders with unquestioning obedience.

Parents should not demand unquestioning obedience from their children.

The knights owed obedience to their king.

when someone does what they are told to do, or what a law, rule etc says they must do

He lived in obedience to the church’s teachings.

他过着严格遵从教规的生活。

[blind/unquestioning/complete obedience](bold)(=complete obedience without any thought)

With blind obedience, I allowed my father to organize my life.

我对父亲盲目地顺从，听凭他来安排我的生活。

obedience classes for dogs and their owners

为狗和其主人安排的服从训练课


obedient

always doing what you are told to do, or what the law, a rule etc says you must do

In everyday English, people usually say that a child is [good](bold)  rather than [obedient](bold) :

The children were all very [good](bold).

a phrase used to end a very formal letter

您恭顺的仆人〔正式信函的结尾用语〕


obesity

when someone is very fat in a way that is unhealthy


obey

to do what someone in authority tells you to do, or what a law or rule says you must do

You must obey a senior officer at all times.

If everyone obeys the rules of the road, safety is much improved.

to do what someone has advised or ordered you to do. In informal and everyday situations, people usually say [do what sb says](bold) rather than [obey](bold)

I did what you said but the car still hasn’t started.

to do what your parent or teacher says you must do – used especially about children

At school, we expect the pupils to do what they are told.

to do what someone says you should do, or advises you to do

I followed the manufacturer’s instructions.

to accept and obey a rule, law, agreement etc

Players have to abide by the rules of the game.

to obey the law or customs of a place, even when you do not agree with them, because this is a necessary part of living in a society

Smokers should respect the law, and only smoke in the privacy of their own homes.

She’s the sort of person who always obeys the rules.

The first duty of a soldier is to obey orders.

Citizens have an obligation to obey the law.

She felt she had to obey her father, even though she thought he was wrong.

Many people felt the law was unfair, and refused to obey it.

He looked terrified, but blindly obeyed.

He expected his orders to be obeyed instantly.

‘Sit!’ he said, and the dog obeyed him instantly.

“坐下！”他说道，那只狗马上就服从了。

Soldiers are expected to obey orders without questioning them.

军人必须毫无异议地服从命令。

Failure to obey the law can lead to a large fine.

违反该法律会被处以巨额罚款。

→ Don’t say ‘obey to someone/something’. Say [obey someone/something](bold)[He refused to obey their orders (NOT obey to their orders).](italic)

[Obey](bold)  is used especially when talking about doing what laws or people in authority tell you to do. In everyday situations, people usually say [do what sb says](bold) :

My husband never [does what I say](bold).


object

a solid thing that you can hold, touch, or see but that is not alive

scientists studying plants, animals, or [inanimate objects](bold)(=things that are not alive)

研究植物、动物或无生命物体的科学家

the purpose of a plan, action, or activity

The object of the game is to improve children’s math skills.

这项游戏旨在提高儿童的数学技能。

My object was to explain the decision simply.

我的目的是要简单明了地解释这一决定。

The customer will benefit most, and that is [the object of the exercise](bold)(=the purpose of what you are doing).

客户将是最大的受益者，这正是此举的目的。

someone or something that is pitied, wanted etc

怜悯/渴望/嘲弄等的对象

She feared becoming an object of ridicule.

她害怕成为人们嘲笑的对象。

跑车及其他人们渴望拥有的东西

used to say that you are willing to spend a lot of money to get something

钱不成问题，我要最好的。

an event or story that shows you the right or wrong way of doing something

The way ants work is an object lesson in order and organization.

蚂蚁的工作方式在秩序和组织方面提供了可资借鉴的实例。

a noun or pronoun representing the person or thing that something is done to, for example ‘the house’ in ‘We built the house.’

a noun or pronoun representing the person or thing that is joined by a preposition to another word or phrase, for example ‘the table’ in ‘He sat on the table.’

the person who is involved in the result of an action, for example ‘her’ in ‘I gave her the book.’

a combination of written information on a computer and instructions that act on the information, for example in the form of a document or a picture

对象〔计算机中编写的信息和有关指令的组合体，形式为文档或图像〕


object

to feel or say that you oppose or disapprove of something

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

If no one objects, I would like Mrs Harrison to be present.

如果没人反对的话，我想请哈里森夫人出席。

Robson [strongly objected](bold) to the terms of the contract.

罗伯森强烈反对合同中的条款。

I objected to having to rewrite the article.

[I object](bold)(=used in formal arguments, for example in a court of law)

Mr Chairman, I object. That is an unfair allegation.

主席先生，我反对。这项指控不公正。

You [object to](bold)  something: She objected to my suggestion.
Don’t say: [She objected my suggestion.](strike)

to state a fact or opinion as a reason for opposing or disapproving of something

提出 …作为反对的理由；反对说

The group objected that the policy would prevent patients from receiving the best treatment.

该团体反对说，这一政策会使病人得不到最佳的治疗。

‘My name’s not Sonny,’ the child objected.


objection

Does anyone have any objections to the proposal?

The Parish Council made several objections to the changes.

His father raised no objections when John told him that he wanted to become a dancer.

(=change something so that someone will no longer object)

He altered the plans to meet the objections of community leaders.

The FBI withdrew its objections to publishing the information.

Residents have lodged an objection to the new development.

Parents at the school have voiced strong objections to the closure.

There were serious objections to using the videotaped evidence at the trial.

One of the main objections was that classes were being taught by untrained staff.

A fundamental objection is that the church should not be part of the government.

He has expressed moral objections to this type of research.

Roman Catholics have religious objections to the use of contraceptives.

(=the fact of refusing to become a solider because of your moral or religious beliefs)

Conscientious objection to military service is seen by the United Nations as part of your right to freedom of thought.

a reason that you have for opposing or disapproving of something, or something you say that expresses this

Her objection was that he was too young.

He had moral objections to killing animals for food.

他从道义上反对宰食动物。

over the objections of sb (=in spite of their objections)

The bill was passed over the objections of many Democrats.

议案在众多民主党人士的反对声中获得通过。

said by lawyers to a judge in a court when they think that what another lawyer has just said should not be allowed

反对！抗议！〔法庭上律师认为对方律师言辞不当时对法官的表态用语〕


objective

Our main objective is to reduce road accidents.

(=decide what you are trying to achieve)

Pupils should be encouraged to set their own objectives.

The policy should help us achieve our objective of reducing paper waste.

We need to control spending in order to meet our financial objectives.

War has always been a means of pursuing national objectives.

This research project has three main objectives.

The primary objective of training is to improve performance.

Their economic strategy was based on a number of key objectives.

A manager must give his team clear objectives to work towards.

Most classroom activities have a specific learning objective.

The city’s stated objective was to improve housing in the area.

Our employees have a sense of common objectives and their commitment is high.

an economic/military/business/political etc objective

We have made good progress towards meeting our business objectives.

(=all the things someone wants to achieve)

The department should clearly state its aims and objectives.

something that you are trying hard to achieve, especially in business or politics

〔尤指商业或政治方面的〕目的，目标

→see THESAURUS at [aim](->aim) 1   →see THESAURUS at [purpose](->purpose)

He vowed to [achieve](bold) certain [objectives](bold) before the end of his presidency.

他立誓要在他的总统任期结束之前实现某些目标。

the best way to [accomplish](bold) your [objectives](bold)

The degree program [has](bold) two main [objectives](bold).

该学位课程有两个主要目标。

Managers should [set](bold) specific performance [objectives](bold) for their teams.

经理应该为自己的团队制定明确的绩效目标。

The [main objective](bold) was to improve children’s knowledge of geography.

主要目的是要增长儿童的地理知识。

A [clear objective](bold) was set and adhered to.

定下了明确的目标并贯彻执行。

One of your first [business objectives](bold) should be to get your own office.

你的首要工作目标之一应该是拥有自己的办公室。

a place that you are trying to reach, especially in a military attack

〔尤指军事行动中的〕攻击目标

The 4th Division’s objective was a town 20 miles to the east.

第四师的攻击目标是东面20英里处的一个城镇。


objective

[objectivity](bold) /ˌɒbdʒekˈtɪvəti/ US /ˌɑːb-/  n. <U>

based on facts, or making a decision that is based on facts rather than on your feelings or beliefs

It’s hard to give an objective opinion about your own children.

很难对自己的子女作出客观的评价。

Scientists need to be objective when doing research.

the importance of a completely objective, independent press

一个完全客观、独立的新闻媒体的重要性

existing outside the mind as something real, not only as an idea


obligation

ˌɒbləˈɡeɪʃən

Citizens have an obligation to obey the law.

When his mother died, he felt an obligation to continue her work.

(=do something that you have a duty to do )

The company has been unable to meet its financial obligations.

All member states must fulfil their obligations according to the EC treaty.

The government failed to honour its obligations under the terms of the agreement.

(=put someone in the position of having an obligation)

A contract imposes certain obligations on employees and employers.

(=have an obligation to support, help etc someone)

He owed an obligation of loyalty to his king.

the obligations arising out of the treaty

The landlord is under an obligation to repair the house.

An accused man is under no obligation to say anything.

the sense of obligation that you feel towards your family

We have a moral obligation to take care of our environment.

(=something that the law says must be done)

The Local Authority has a statutory obligation to provide education.

(=something that a contract says you must do)

The company must refund your money in line with their contractual obligations.

(=something that you must legally do, especially because of an agreement)

These clauses are legally binding obligations on both parties.

〔道义或法律上的〕义务，职责，责任

Employers [have an obligation](bold) to treat all employees equally.

雇主有责任对所有员工一视同仁。

Parents [are under a](bold) legal [obligation to](bold) educate their children.

家长对子女的教育负有法律责任。

You [are under no obligation to](bold) buy any more books.

你不必非买更多的书不可。

Greater resources are needed to [meet](bold) these [obligations](bold).

履行这些义务需要更多的资源。

the rights and [obligations imposed on](bold) them by treaties

条约给他们规定的权利和义务

The government must pay for health care for war veterans – it is an [obligation](bold) we [owe](bold) to them.

政府必须为退伍军人支付卫生保健费用——这是我们对他们负有的义务。

a [moral obligation](bold) to help the poor

He stayed with the team out of a [sense of obligation](bold).

他出于责任感而留在队里。


obligatory

something that is obligatory must be done because of a law, rule etc

〔因法律、规定等〕必须履行的，有义务的；强制性的

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

It is obligatory for companies to provide details of their industrial processes.

公司必须提供其工业流程的详细情况。

used humorously to describe something that is always done or included in a particular situation

惯常的，习惯上的〔幽默用法〕

She offered him the obligatory cup of tea.


oblige

if you are obliged to do something, you have to do it because the situation, the law, a duty etc makes it necessary

〔因形势、法律、义务等关系而〕迫使，强迫

The minister was obliged to report at least once every six months.

这位部长必须至少每六个月作一次汇报。

Circumstances had obliged him to sell the business.

客观情况迫使他出售公司。

[feel obliged to do sth](bold)(=feel that you have a duty to do something)

Many parents feel obliged to pay for at least part of the wedding.

许多父母都觉得有责任至少承担婚礼的部分费用。

→ Do not use [oblige](bold) when you are talking about a person making someone do something they do not want to do. Use [force](bold) or [make](bold)[They made me (NOT obliged me to) stay behind after school.](italic)

[Oblige](bold)  is often passive in this meaning.

In everyday English, people usually say that you [have to do sth](bold)  rather than [are obliged to do sth](bold) :

to do something that someone has asked you to do

帮忙；答应〔某人的〕请求

It’s always a good idea to oblige important clients.

能满足重要客户的请求总是好的。

If you need a ride home, I’d be happy to oblige.

如果你需要搭便车回家，我很乐意效劳。

如蒙 …我将非常感激〔请别人帮忙时的客气话〕

I’d be obliged if you’d treat this matter as strictly confidential.

此事如果您能严格保密，我将非常感激。

(我对你)非常感谢，不胜感激〔用于礼貌地向某人致谢〕


obscene

relating to sex in a way that is shocking and offensive

Bradford made an [obscene gesture](bold).

布拉德福德做了个下流手势。

[obscene phone calls](bold)(=calls from an unknown person saying obscene things)

extremely unfair, immoral, or unpleasant, especially in a way that makes you angry

不公平的；不道德的；令人震怒的

Some players earn obscene amounts of money.

有些运动员的收入高得离谱。


obscure

not well known and usually not very important

The details of his life [remain obscure](bold).

[For](bold) some [obscure reason](bold), the group is very popular.

这个组合莫名其妙地很受欢迎。


obscure

to make something difficult to know or understand

Recent successes have [obscured the fact](bold) that the company is still in trouble.

近来的成功掩盖了公司依然处于困境的事实。

to prevent something from being seen or heard clearly


observation

ˌɒbzəˈveɪʃən

The police said that the house had been under observation.

(=closely watch someone or something over a period of time)

The doctor ordered that the patient be kept under observation.

(=someone’s abilty to watch things in a way that helps them learn and understand more)

In the past, people used their own powers of observation to forecast the weather.

A lot of useful knowledge is gained by careful observation of the world around you.

(=observation that is not done in a very careful or organized way)

Even casual observation makes this theory improbable.

Piaget developed his theories based on direct observation of children.

(=watching and understanding something yourself, rather than hearing or reading about it)

I knew cigarettes were addictive from personal observation.

(=observation done for scientific purposes)

Scientific observation led to the discovery of vaccines.

(=observation of a teacher and children in a classroom)

Classroom observation is only part of what school inspectors do.

(=a place from where you can observe something)

The peak of the mountain was a natural location for an observation post.

(=a structure that is built in order to observe something)

The army built an observation tower on the top of the building.

The hospital released him after a period of observation.

the process of watching something or someone carefully for a period of time

Bloomfield’s approach to linguistics was based on observation of the language.

布龙菲尔德的语言学研究方法以对语言的观察为基础。

He spent two nights [under close observation](bold) in hospital.

他在医院接受了两个晚上的严密观察。

His orders were to [keep](bold) the men [under observation](bold).

他下的命令是监视这些人。

Art classes help develop children’s [powers of observation](bold).

美术课有助于提高儿童的观察力。

[Careful observation](bold) suggests that this is not the case.

仔细观察的结果表明情况并非如此。

[Detailed observations](bold) were carried out on the behaviour of the students.

对这些学生的行为作了细致观察。

From their [direct observations](bold), children absorb a model of marriage.

儿童通过直接观察来理解某一种婚姻的模式。

something that you notice when watching something or someone

Some interesting observations emerged from this research.

这项研究得出了一些有趣的结果。

a spoken or written remark about something you have noticed

〔对所关注事物的〕评述，评论

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

Darwin’s observations on the habits of certain birds

达尔文对某些鸟类习性的论述

Paz [makes](bold) some [observations](bold) about the role of the critic.

帕斯论述了评论家的作用。

〔对法律等的〕遵守，奉行


observe

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

Scientists have observed a drop in ozone levels over the Antarctic.

科学家已经观察到南极洲上方的臭氧浓度有所下降。

It was observed that 40 percent of patients had high blood pressure.

据观察，40%的病人患有高血压。

Officers observed him driving at 90 miles per hour.

警察发现他以90英里的时速驾车。

Predators have been observed to avoid attacking brightly coloured species.

据观察发现，食肉动物会避免袭击色彩鲜艳的物种。

In everyday English, people say that someone [sees](bold) , [notices](bold) , or [spots](bold)  something or someone:

She was [spotted](bold) going into a restaurant with a well-known footballer.

The police have been observing his movements.

警方一直在监视他的行动。

One student performs the experiment, while his partner observes.

一名学生做实验，他的搭档则进行观察。

Observe how the people in the group interact.

注意观察这个小组内的人是如何相互交流的。

to say or write what you have noticed about a situation

“锡德看上去生病了。”多尔蒂说道。

Keynes observed that humans fall into two classes.

to do what you are supposed to do according to a law or agreement

遵守，奉行〔法律或协议〕

So far the ceasefire has been observed by both sides.

到目前为止，双方都遵守着停火协定。

to do things and obey laws that are part of a religion or custom

遵守，奉行〔宗教或习俗〕


observer

someone who regularly watches or pays attention to particular things, events, situations etc

Observers are predicting a fall in interest rates.

someone who attends meetings, classes, events etc to check what is happening

〔会议、事件等的〕观察员，评论员；〔课程的〕旁听者

The UN sent observers to the peace talks.

联合国派遣观察员参加和谈。

Independent observers monitored the elections.

独立观察员对大选进行了监督。

reports from observers at sea and on dry land

来自海上和陆地的目击者报告

[casual observer](bold)(=someone looking at something but not very carefully)

A casual observer would have guessed his age at 70.

要是不仔细看，可能会认为他有70岁。


obsess

if something or someone obsesses you, you think or worry about them all the time and you cannot think about anything else – used to show disapproval

使痴迷，使迷恋，使心神不宁〔含贬义〕

A lot of young girls are obsessed by their weight.

许多年轻女孩都过于为自己的体重而困扰。

Jody’s been obsessed with some lifeguard for months.

乔迪几个月来一直迷恋着某个救生员。

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

to think about something or someone much more than is necessary or sensible

Stop obsessing about your hair. It’s fine.

别再过于担心你的头发了，它看上去很好。


obsession

For Rosie, losing weight had become an obsession.

The poet seems to have an obsession with death.

Sometimes his tidiness bordered on obsession.

(=an obsession that the whole country has)

In Britain, the weather is a national obsession.

Our society seems to have an unhealthy obsession with staying young.

Mark had a dangerous obsession with fast cars.

the modern obsession with celebrities' lives

The case became something of an obsession with him.

(=used to say that something has stopped being a normal interest and become an extreme one)

She was protective of her children, to the point of obsession.

(=have extreme feelings of interest in something or someone)

At 15 I met Heather and instantly fell into the grip of an obsession.

an extreme unhealthy interest in something or worry about something, which stops you from thinking about anything else

Gambling [became an obsession](bold), and he eventually lost everything.

他迷上赌博，最后失去了一切。

an [unhealthy obsession](bold) with being thin

The current obsession with exam results is actually harming children’s education.

目前一味追求考试成绩的做法实际上对儿童教育有害。

The game pachinko became a [national obsession](bold).

弹珠机游戏已经风靡全国。

He has an enthusiasm for art, [to the point of obsession](bold) in my opinion.

他对艺术很热衷，在我看来已经到了痴迷的程度。

She looked after him with a devotion [bordering on obsession](bold).

她尽心尽力地照顾他，简直到了沉迷的地步。


obsolete

no longer useful, because something newer and better has been invented

→see THESAURUS at [old-fashioned](->old-fashioned)

computer hardware that quickly [became obsolete](bold)

很快就变得过时的电脑硬件

Will computers [render](bold)(=make) books [obsolete](bold)?

计算机会把书籍淘汰掉吗？


obstacle

This issue is a major obstacle to a successful peace treaty.

The weather proved an obstacle, with nonstop rains flooding the field.

Serious differences continue to present obstacles to an agreement.

Our reliance on fossil fuels poses an obstacle to achieving these targets.

We need to help young people overcome the obstacles that poverty puts in their way.

Opening the border removed all obstacles to trade and travel between the two countries.

The investigation has faced numerous obstacles.

People should not encounter obstacles because of their age, sex, race, or religion.

(=try to stop someone from doing something easily)

Her father put several obstacles in the way of their marriage.

Debt is a major obstacle to economic growth.

There are serious obstacles to obtaining sufficient funding.

The lack of oil and gas resources in Northeast Asia is a real obstacle to the region's economic development.

The biggest obstacle to women's equality was social expectations of male and female roles.

(=one that it is impossible to find a solution to)

The problem does not present an insurmountable obstacle.

There are no insuperable obstacles to the purchase of the company.

(=one that makes it very difficult to achieve something)

There are formidable obstacles to legal reform.

a legal/political/technical etc obstacle

Despite technical obstacles, scientists at NASA are considering the project.

There were still a number of obstacles in the way of an agreement.

something that makes it difficult to achieve something

Fear of change is an obstacle to progress.

惧怕变革是进步的一大障碍。

The tax [puts obstacles in the way of](bold) companies trying to develop trade overseas.

这项税收为想在海外发展贸易的公司设置了障碍。

Women still have to [overcome](bold) many [obstacles](bold) to gain equality.

妇女要获得平等仍需克服重重障碍。

We want to [remove](bold) all [obstacles](bold) to travel between the two countries.

我们想要消除在这两个国家之间旅行的所有障碍。

the single [biggest obstacle](bold) to a Conservative victory in the next election

保守党在下一届大选中获胜的最大障碍

There are [formidable obstacles](bold) on the road to peace.

通往和平的道路上存在难以逾越的障碍。

an object which blocks your way, so that you must try to go around it


obstruction

when something blocks a road, passage, tube etc, or the thing that blocks it

〔道路、通道、管道等的〕堵塞(物)，阻塞(物)

an operation to remove an obstruction from her throat

去除她喉咙里阻塞物的手术

Police can remove a vehicle that is [causing an obstruction](bold).

警察有权把造成阻塞的车辆移走。

when someone or something prevents or delays a legal or political process

〔对司法或政治程序的〕阻挠，妨碍；拖延

He was found guilty of [obstruction of justice](bold).

他因妨碍司法公正而被判有罪。

an offence in football,hockey etc in which a player gets between an opponent and the ball

〔足球、曲棍球等比赛中的〕阻挡(犯规)


obtain

to get something that you want, especially through your own effort, skill, or work

〔尤指通过自身的努力、技能或工作〕获得，得到

Further information can be obtained from head office.

详细资料可以从总公司获取。

You will need to obtain permission from the principal.

the results obtained through these surveys

In everyday English, people say that they [get](bold)  a result, a ticket, some information etc rather than [obtain](bold)  it:

You have to [get](bold) permission from your parents.

if a situation, system, or rule obtains, it continues to exist

〔情况、制度或规则〕继续存在，沿袭


obvious

something that is obvious is very easy to notice or understand – used especially when you are surprised that other people cannot notice it

There is an obvious connection between the two murders.

It was obvious that something was wrong.

easy to notice that something is true, so that you feel sure about it and have no doubts

It was clear to me that my father was dying.

There are clear signs of an economic recovery.

very easy to notice, especially because you can see, hear, smell, or feel something

Steroid drugs cause a noticeable change in someone’s behaviour.

Road noise tends to be more noticeable in certain weather conditions.

very easy to notice, because of being different from things around them

a conspicuous white spot on the bird’s wings

She tried to make herself look less conspicuous.

Don’t leave your valuables in a conspicuous place.

extremely obvious, so that you cannot possibly confuse something with something else

facts, ideas etc that are self-evident  are obvious and true, although some people may not accept them or know about them

The facts in this case are self-evident and cannot be denied.

We hold these truths to be self-evident we believe that they are obvious and true – from the American Declaration of Independence.

use this about something that someone does which is clearly bad, but which they do not seem to be ashamed of

The bill is a blatant attempt to limit our right to free speech.

to know that something must be true because you can see signs that show this

Even though it was dark, she could tell it was him.

How can you tell if you’ve broken your arm?

It seems obvious to me that he is guilty.

This may sound obvious, but don’t forget to put your name on your paper.

It soon became obvious that the boy was not really interested.

The plan, for obvious reasons, was being kept secret.

This case is an obvious example of what can go wrong.

There is no obvious answer to their problem.

The cause of her problems is glaringly obvious.

His interest in her was blatantly obvious.

(=very obvious, and embarrassing or upsetting)

It became painfully obvious that she and Edward had nothing in common.

The cause of the pain was not immediately obvious.

There are some fairly obvious signs of a poor diet.

显然的，明显的；易理解的

The obvious way of reducing pollution is to use cars less.

减少污染显而易见的办法就是少用汽车。

It might be obvious to you, but it isn’t to me.

这对你来说也许很容易理解，但对我却并非如此。

behaving in a way that shows you want something very badly, when other people think this behaviour is not suitable

I know you really like him, but you don’t have to be so obvious about it.

我知道你很喜欢他，但你也不必表露得如此明显。

the person or thing that you would expect everyone to choose

Teaching is an obvious choice of career if you like working with children.

如果你喜欢和孩子打交道，那么教书就是非常合适的选择。

The obvious thing is to speak to her before you make a decision.

最好的办法显然是在你作决定前和她谈一谈。

to say something that is already obvious so it is not necessary to say it

说出明摆着的事，此话可能多余

It is stating the obvious, but regular measurement of blood pressure is essential in older people.

可能不说大家也知道，定期给老人量血压十分必要。


obviously

used to mean that a fact can easily be noticed or understood

明显地，显而易见地；明摆地

We’re obviously going to need more help.

显然我们将需要更多的帮助。

Your research has obviously been very thorough.

你的研究工作显然做得很透彻。

Obviously, this is going to take some time.

她皱起眉头，显然感到不解。


occasion

I have seen him drunk on many occasions.

She has been late on numerous occasions.

He was given a red card on two occasions this season.

(=used when something does not happen often)

Only on rare occasions did she ever receive a letter.

On that particular occasion, he greeted me by kissing my hand.

He insisted then, as on every previous occasion, that he was innocent.

I had heard this story on at least four separate occasions.

The same person can react differently on different occasions.

(=an occasion like the one mentioned or described)

He had a box of toys by his desk for such occasions.

The crowd interrupted her speech on a number of occasions.

She stayed out all night on more than one occasion.

On at least one occasion he was arrested for robbery.

She used her best china on special occasions.

The big occasion for country people was the Agricultural Fair.

I prefer not to discuss business at social occasions.

The gowns are worn only on ceremonial occasions.

He did not want his funeral to be a sad and solemn occasion, but a celebration of his life.

The Great Hall had been prepared for the festive occasion.

To celebrate the occasion, a small party was held at his home.

(=do something special to celebrate an event)

The bells were rung to mark the occasion.

The table was decorated to suit the occasion.

(=a feeling that an event is very special or important)

The music gave the event a real sense of occasion.

(=join in a social occasion in an eager way)

People entered into the spirit of the occasion by enjoying a picnic before the outdoor concert.

→ Do not use [occasion](bold) to mean ‘a time when it is possible for you to do what you want to do’. Use [opportunity](bold) or [chance](bold)[Do not waste this opportunity (NOT this occasion).](italic)

〔某事发生的〕时刻，时候，时节

I’ve seen Jana with them on several occasions.

我几次看见让娜和他们在一起。

On this occasion we were sitting in a park in Madrid.

这一次我们是坐在马德里的一座公园里。

She had met Zahid on two separate occasions.

〔合适的〕机会；〔有利的〕时机

This was the occasion for expressions of friendship by the two presidents.

这是两位总统进行友好交流的时机。

I’m saving this bottle of champagne for a special occasion.

我要把这瓶香槟酒留到特别的日子喝。

His remark [was the occasion of](bold) a bitter quarrel.

他的话引起了一场激烈的争吵。

I [had occasion to](bold) call on him last year.

去年我有机会得以拜访过他。

if a particular action ever becomes necessary

If ever the occasion arises when I want advice, you’re the first person I’ll come to.

我若是有事需要请教，第一个便来找你。

On occasion, prisoners were allowed visits from their families.

囚犯可获准偶尔接受家属探访。

[rise to the occasion](bold) at → [rise](->rise) 1 sense 9


occasion

She had a long career break occasioned by her husband’s job being moved to Paris.

她因为丈夫的工作调到巴黎，事业曾被长期中断。

Your behaviour has occasioned us a great deal of anxiety.

你的行为已引起我们极大的不安。


occasional

happening sometimes but not often or regularly

They had an occasional coffee together after shopping.

他们偶尔会在购物后一起喝杯咖啡。

We should have enough money left for [the occasional](bold) trip.

我们应该留下足够的钱偶尔出去旅行一下。


occasionally

sometimes, but not regularly and not often

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

Occasionally Alice would look up from her books.

艾丽斯偶尔会从书本上抬起头来看看。

We only see each other [very occasionally](bold)(=rarely).

In everyday English, people often say [once in a while](bold)  rather than [occasionally](bold) :

We still see her [once in a while](bold).


occupant

The furniture had been left by the previous occupants.

家具是先前的住户留下的。

Police are still trying to trace the occupants of the house which was destroyed by fire.

警方仍在找寻被焚房子里的住户。

someone who is in a room, vehicle etc at a particular time

〔房间、汽车等某一时期的〕使用者，占有人

Neither of the car’s two occupants was injured.

车里的两个人都没有受伤。


occupation

ˌɒkjəˈpeɪʃən

(=jobs in which you work using your hands)

People from manual occupations are most at risk of experiencing poverty.

(=jobs that usually involve a lot of education)

professional occupations such as medicine or the law

Teachers’ pay compares poorly with that of other white-collar occupations.

(=needing training and experience/not needing training and experience)

Plumbing and carpentry are highly skilled occupations.

Workers in unskilled occupations are finding fewer job opportunities.

Teaching is regarded as a middle-class occupation.

Working-class occupations may be divided into skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled.

(=a job that traditionally is done by men or women)

traditional female occupations such as nursing

Women in managerial occupations tend to have children later.

(=a job in which you provide a service rather than producing goods)

Around two thirds of the labour force is employed in service occupations.

The people in the region have a variety of occupations.

Young people need help with choosing a suitable occupation.

Many of his colleagues have taken up another occupation.

Our recent graduates have entered a wide range of occupations.

The third son followed his father’s occupation.

Please state your name, address and occupation.

请写明你的姓名、地址和职业。

when a large group of people enter a place and take control of it, especially by military force

〔尤指军队的〕占领，控制

The area is under occupation (=controlled by a foreign army).

One of my childhood occupations was collecting stamps.

我儿时的消遣之一是集邮。

when someone lives or stays in a building or place

When the first scientists came to the region they found little evidence of human occupation.

第一批科学家来到这个地区时，他们基本没发现任何人类居住过的痕迹。


occupational

ˌɒkjəˈpeɪʃənəl◂

职业的，工作的；由职业引起的

Getting injured is [an occupational hazard](bold)(=a risk that always exists in a particular job or activity) of the sport.

从事这项运动常会有伤病风险。


occupy

[past tense and past participle](italic) [occupied](bold) [present participle](italic) [occupying](bold) [third person singular](italic) [occupies](bold)

He occupies the house without paying any rent.

他住在这幢房子里，没有付一分钱房租。

The building was purchased and occupied by its new owners last year.

这幢房屋去年被新业主买下入住了。

if something occupies you or your time, you are busy doing it

Football occupies most of my leisure time.

足球占去了我大部分的闲暇时间。

Only six percent of police time is occupied with criminal incidents.

犯罪事件只占用6%的警务时间。

Family photos occupied almost the entire wall.

全家福几乎占据了整面墙。

In everyday English, people usually say that something [takes up](bold)  time or space rather than [occupies](bold)  it:

That bed [takes up](bold) almost the whole room.

to enter a place in a large group and keep control of it, especially by military force

Students occupied Sofia University on Monday.

星期一学生们占领了索非亚大学。

if something occupies your mind etc, you think about that thing more than anything else

占据某人的脑海/思想/注意力

Work will occupy your mind and help you forget about him.

工作会占据你的思想，使你忘记他。

to use something such as a room, seat, or bed

使用，占用〔房间、座位、床等〕

Many patients who are occupying hospital beds could be transferred to other places.

许多占用医院床位的病人都可以转往其他地方。

Before becoming prime minister, he had already occupied several cabinet posts.

成为首相之前，他已经出任过好几个内阁职位。


occur

[past tense and past participle](italic) [occurred](bold) [present participle](italic) [occurring](bold)

A third of accidental deaths occur in the home.

有三分之一的意外死亡发生在家里。

爆炸发生在清晨5点30分。

In everyday English, people usually say [happen](bold)  rather than [occur](bold) :

The accident [happened](bold) while she was at school.

to happen or exist in a particular place or situation

〔在特定地点或情况下〕发生，存在

Whooping cough occurs mainly in young children.

The highest rates of unemployment occur in the inner urban areas.


occurrence

Laughter was a rare occurrence in his classroom.

Flooding in the area is a common occurrence.

The frequent occurrence of earthquakes in the area means that the buildings must be specifically designed to withstand the force.

该地区地震频发，这意味着建筑物必须有专门的抗震设计。


ocean

[a drop in the ocean](bold) at → [drop](->drop) 2 sense 8

You use [in the ocean](bold)  to talk about things that happen in the water: We swam in the ocean. There are thousands of species of fish in the ocean.

You use [on the ocean](bold)  to talk about things that happen on the surface of the water: He dreamed of buying a yacht and sailing on the ocean.

You use [by the ocean](bold)  to talk about the area near the ocean: I’d love to live by the ocean.

the great mass of salt water that covers most of the Earth’s surface

She stood on the beach, gazing at the ocean.

她站在海滩上，凝视着大海。

I like to swim in the ocean when it’s warm enough.

海水足够暖的时候，我喜欢在海里游泳。

one of the very large areas of sea on the Earth’s surface

大量[许多]某物〔尤指液体〕


o'clock

one of the times when the clock shows the exact hour as a number from 1 to 12

→ Do not use [o'clock](bold) when mentioning minutes or parts of an hour[ten past nine (NOT ten past nine o'clock)](italic)[half past one (NOT half past one o'clock)](italic). Do not use [o'clock](bold) when writing the time in the form 1.00, 2.00 etc.


October

[n](bold) <[C,U](bold)> written abbreviation: Oct.

the tenth month of the year, between September and November

我们是去年10月搬进去的。

The baby was baptized Monday, October 6.

宝宝是在10月6日、星期一受洗的。


odd

[comparative](italic) [odder](bold) [superlative](italic) [oddest](bold)

different from what is normal or expected, especially in a way that you disapprove of or cannot understand

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

What she did was unforgivable, but [the odd thing was](bold) he didn’t seem to mind.

她的所作所为是不可原谅的，但奇怪的是他好像并不在意。

She was holding an extremely [odd-looking](bold) weapon.

她手持一件非常奇特的武器。

It seemed odd that he wanted a picture of me.

他想要一张我的照片，这似乎有点奇怪。

a few occasions, days etc that happen at various times but not often and not regularly

偶尔的场合/日子/时刻/饮酒等

Lack of sleep doesn’t matter on the odd occasion.

偶尔睡眠不足没什么关系。

I like the odd glass of wine with my dinner.

我喜欢晚餐时偶尔喝杯葡萄酒。

〔一双或一套中〕单只的，不成对的

[odd socks/gloves etc](bold)(=not a matching pair of socks etc)

他穿了两只不配对的短袜。

a number that cannot be divided exactly by two, for example 1, 3, 5, 7 etc

20多一点/30多一点等

I have another 20-odd years to work before I retire.

我还要工作20多年才退休。

someone or something that is different from the rest of the group or not included in it

在学校里我总是跟大家格格不入。


oddly

这个星期她行为有点古怪。

used to say that something seems strange or surprising

Oddly enough, someone asked me the same question only yesterday.

真奇怪，就在昨天还有人问过我同样的问题。


odds

He survived a night in the cold water against incredible odds.

We must hope that, despite great odds, we can achieve a peaceful settlement.

(=making success seem extremely unlikely)

They face impossible odds simply trying to get an education.

They face overwhelming odds in their struggle to preserve the park.

The baby, born sixteen weeks too early, defied the odds and is celebrating her first birthday.

The Coastguard was battling against the odds to keep the oil spill from reaching the shore.

(=despite something seeming very unlikely)

Against all odds, he recovered from his illness.

(=there are a lot of difficulties that may prevent someone’s success)

They may be able to build a life for themselves, but the odds are stacked against them.

how likely it is that something will or will not happen

[The odds are](bold)(=it is likely) that he will commit the same crime again.

他可能还会犯同样的罪行。

You can narrow the odds of a nasty accident happening in your home by being more safety-conscious.

增强安全意识可以减少家中发生意外危险的可能性。

The odds against a plane crash are around a million to one.

发生空难的可能性仅有约百万分之一。

I’m afraid that [the odds are](bold) heavily [against](bold) her winning (=it is not likely).

恐怕她获胜的可能性很小。

[What are the odds](bold)(=how likely is it) that they will mess up?

他们失败的可能性有多大？

a new company that has [beaten the odds](bold) and succeeded (=it was not likely to succeed, but it did)

战胜逆境并取得成功的一家新公司

difficulties which make a good result seem very unlikely

The hospital’s director has been battling against the odds to improve patient care.

这位医院院长一直在克服困难，努力提高病人护理服务质量。

The soldiers’ job was to hold on despite impossible odds.

这些士兵的任务是排除万难，坚守下去。

Briggs found himself at odds with his colleagues.

布里格斯发现自己与同事们意见不合。

The two politicians were at odds over what was the truth.

两位政治家在何为事实真相的问题上产生了分歧。

if two statements, descriptions, actions etc are at odds with each other, they are different although they should be the same

〔说法、描述、行为等〕不一致

Mark’s account of what happened is at odds with Dan’s.

马克对所发生情况的描述和丹的说法不一样。

She gave him a sweet smile, totally at odds with the look of dislike in her eyes.

她给了他一个甜甜的微笑，这和她眼中的不悦完全不符。

the numbers that show how much money you will win if you bet on the winner of a horse race or other competition

At odds of 10–1 he bet a hundred pounds.

他以1赔10的赔率押了100英镑。

[(at) long/short odds](bold)(=high or low numbers, that show a high or low risk of losing)

Everyone was surprised when Desert Zone won the race, at very long odds.

极高赔率的“沙漠地带”竟然在赛马中获胜，人人都感到意外。

They are laying odds of 8–1 that the Conservatives will win the next election.

他们为保守党在下次大选中获胜开出1赔8的赔率。

used to say that what someone does or what happens is not important

现在付给我或者晚点再付都没关系。

to pay a higher price than is usual or reasonable

Most residents live in tiny apartments and pay over the odds for them too.

大部分居民居住在狭小的公寓里，还要支付高额房租。


odour

([BrE](special)) AmE odor  [n](bold) <[C,U](bold)>

〔尤指难闻的〕气味；臭味

从一家工厂传出的难闻气味


of

The usual way to say that something belongs to someone, or that someone is connected with someone, is by using [-’s](bold) . You say: Tom’s car a child’s bike my sister’s boyfriend
Don’t say: [the car of Tom](strike)  [the bike of a child](strike)  [the boyfriend of my sister](strike)

You use [–s’](bold)  after a plural noun ending in ‘s’: a teachers’ meeting

You use [of mine/yours/his/hers/ours/theirs](bold)  when talking about one of several people or things belonging to or connected with someone: a friend of ours a habit of mine

You use [by](bold)  when saying who sang, wrote, or painted something: a song by Jay-Z
Don’t say: [a song of Jay-Z](strike)

used to show what a part belongs to or comes from

used to show who something or someone belongs to or has a connection with

鳄梨沙拉是我的最爱之一。

Product inspection is the responsibility of the employees themselves.

检验产品是员工自己的责任。

used when talking about a feature or quality that something has

…的〔表示某物的特征或品质〕

used to show what group one or more things or people belong to

〔表示同一类中的所属关系〕

‘Sunflowers’ is one of his best-known paintings.

《向日葵》是他最著名的画作之一。

其中有两位客人是素食者。

used to show what type of substance or thing you are referring to, when talking about an amount

〔谈论数量时表示所指之物的种类〕

used to say what type of things or people are in a group

〔说明成群的物或人的类别〕

used to state specifically which thing of the general type mentioned you are referring to

〔用于具体说明所指的是某类事物中的哪一个〕

used to state specifically what a particular number, amount, age etc is

〔用于具体说明某数字、数量、年龄等〕

used to talk about things produced by a famous or skilled writer, artist etc

〔用于谈论某位著名的或技巧高超的作家、艺术家等的作品〕

used to say what a story, some news etc is about, or what a picture, map etc shows

关于 …的，以 …为主题的

used after nouns that refer to actions, or to people who do something, in order to show who or what the action is done to

〔用于表示动作或施动者的名词之后，说明动作的对象〕

used after nouns that refer to actions in order to show who or what does the action

〔用于表示动作的名词之后，说明施动者〕

used after some adjectives that describe feelings, to show who or what the feeling is directed towards

〔用于某些描述情感的形容词之后，说明情感的指向〕

Most children want their parents to feel proud of them.

大多数儿童都希望父母为自己而骄傲。

used when referring to the day, moment etc when something happened

〔用于指某事发生的日期、时刻等〕

I was at home [at the time of](bold) the murder.

used to say where something is in relation to a place or thing

〔用于指某物与某地或某物之间的位置关系〕

a historic seaside town 99 km south of London

伦敦以南99公里处的一座滨海历史名城

我住在离这儿不到一英里远的地方。

used to describe a person or thing by saying what their main qualities or features are

〔用于描写某人或某物所具有的主要品质或特征〕

Albright was seen as a woman of great determination.

奥尔布赖特在大家的眼里是一位意志非常坚定的女性。

It’s an area of considerable historical interest.

那是个非常有历史意义的地区。

He has two children, a boy of 12 and a girl of 15.

他有两个孩子，一个12岁的男孩和一个15岁的女孩。

it is kind/stupid/careless etc of sb (to do sth)

used to say that someone’s action shows a particular quality

某人(做某事)是仁慈的/愚蠢的/粗心的等

It was kind of you to remember my birthday.

〔用于说明某人来自哪里〕

used to show the country, organization, or group in which someone has a particular position

〔用于表示某一职位的人所属的国家、组织或团体〕

used in dates before the name of the month

〔在日期中用于月份之前〕

〔用于说明某事在何时发生〕

one of the biggest upsets of recent years

used in giving the time, to mean ‘before’

〔用于表示时间〕之前，不到

used to show the cause of someone’s death

〔用于表示某人死亡的原因〕

used to say what material has been used to make something

〔用于表示某物是由何种材料制成的〕

We often used to walk by the river of an evening.

我们以前晚上常在河边散步。


of course

used to show that other people probably already know what you are saying is true, or expect to hear it

You should of course keep copies of all your correspondence.

你当然应该保留所有信函的复印件。

Of course there will be some difficult times ahead.

今后当然会有遇到困难的时候。

used to emphasize that you are saying ‘yes’ when someone asks your permission to do something

当然，好的〔当别人要做某事而征求你的同意时，用于强调同意的回答〕

‘Can I ring you back in a minute?’ ‘Yes, of course.’

“我能不能过一会儿给你回电话？”“当然可以啦。”

‘Is it OK if I have another cup of coffee?’ ‘Course, help yourself.’

“我再喝杯咖啡行吗？”“当然可以，别客气。”

used to emphasize that what you are saying to someone is true or correct

当然，自然〔用于强调你对某人说的话属实或正确〕

‘Do you really believe her?’ ‘Of course I do!’

“你当真相信她？”“那当然！”

‘I hope this idea of yours works.’ ‘Course it’ll work.’

“我希望你的这个想法行得通。”“当然会行得通。”

used to show that you accept or agree with what someone has just said

对，当然〔对别人刚说的话表示接受或同意〕

‘Don’t get angry. She’s only 13.’ ‘Of course.’

“别生气，她才13岁。”“当然不会。”

‘The correct answer is 83.’ ‘Oh, yes, of course.’

“正确的答案是83。”“噢，没错，当然是啦。”

used to emphasize that you are saying ‘no’ to something

当然不[没有]〔强调对某事的否认〕

‘Have you been reading my email?’ ‘Of course not!’

“你一直在看我的电子邮件？”“当然没有！”

‘Do you mind if I bring a friend?’ ‘No, of course not.’

“我带个朋友来你会介意吗？”“当然不会。”


off

[right off](bold) at → [right](->right) 2 sense 2 [straight off](bold) at → [straight](->straight) 1 sense 7 [off the top of your head](bold) at → [top](->top) 1 sense 18 [noises off](bold) at → [noise](->noise) 1 sense 8

他上了车，随即开车走了。

Suddenly they turned off and parked in a side road.

突然他们拐出去停在一条岔路上。

Once we were off the main freeway, the trip felt more like a vacation.

我们一离开主高速公路，旅途的感觉就更像是度假了。

Her husband was off on a business trip somewhere.

她丈夫到什么地方出差去了。

你准备好了吗？我们走吧。

They were off to Italy (=leaving to go to Italy) and wanted to make an early start.

他们要去意大利，想早点出发。

not on something, or removed from something

不在〔某物〕上面(的)；从〔某物〕上移开(的)

Someone had taken the mirror off the wall.

有人把镜子从墙上取下来了。

I was trying to scrape the mud off my boots.

我在想办法把靴子上的泥刮掉。

→ Don’t say ‘off of’ something. Say [off](bold) something[She fell off her chair (NOT off of her chair).](italic)

下〔公共汽车、火车、飞机等〕

所有的人都在温尼伯站下火车。

a machine, piece of equipment etc that is off is not working or operating

〔机器、设备等〕不在工作，不在运转，停止

一定要把所有的灯都关掉。

not at work, school etc because you are ill or on holiday

〔因生病或度假〕不工作，不上学；休息

My secretary’s been off with flu for the past week.

我的秘书在过去的一周里得了流感，没来上班。

Clare had to stay off school because her mother was ill.

克莱尔因为妈妈病了不能去上学。

You look tired. Why don’t you take tomorrow off?

你看上去很疲惫，为什么明天不休息一天呢？

He needs more time off duty for relaxation and rest.

他需要更多的时间放松休息。

‘Going to work today, mum?’ ‘No. It’s my [day off](bold) today.’

“妈妈，你今天去上班吗？”“不，今天我休息。”

My brother once borrowed some money off him.

我弟弟曾经从他那里借过钱。

I got this necklace off a woman outside the market.

这条项链我是从市场外面的一个女人那里买的。

We could see the cliffs of Shetland about two miles off.

我们可以看见大约两英里外设得兰的悬崖峭壁。

Kara’s home was a long way off across the sea.

卡拉的家在大海那一边很远的地方。

used to say how much time there is between now and a future event

〔时间上〕距 …，离 …，隔 …

With the exams now only a week off, I had to study hard.

现在离考试只有一个星期了，我得努力学习。

used to say how likely or unlikely something is

〔用于表示某事的可能性〕

Any kind of peace agreement still seems a long way off.

达成任何一种和平协议似乎仍然是遥不可及的事。

connected to a particular room, area, road etc

与〔某房间、地区、道路等〕相连接(的)

There’s a small bathroom off the main bedroom.

有一个小浴室和主卧室相连。

a narrow street leading off the corner of the square

和广场一角相连的狭窄街道

used to say that a price is reduced by a particular amount

If you buy more than ten, they knock 10% off.

如果你买十个以上，他们就打九折。

if an event which has been arranged is off, it will not now take place

The race may have to be called off if the bad weather continues.

如果恶劣天气持续，比赛可能要取消。

behaviour that is off is rude or is not acceptable

She walked out before the end of your lecture, which I thought was a bit off.

你的讲座还未结束她就走出去了，我认为这有点失礼。

Look, I know when someone’s being off with me.

听着，有人对我无礼时我是知道的。

used to say how much of something someone has

〔用于表示某人有多少东西〕

The school’s fairly well off for books these days.

这所学校现在有相当多的图书。

[How are you off for](bold) sports equipment(=do you have enough?)?

你的体育运动装备够不够？

→ [well-off](->well-off) → [badly off](->badly off) → [better off](->better off)

for short periods but not regularly, over a long period of time

We’ve been going out together for five years, off and on.

我们断断续续交往了五年。

Toby’s been off his food for a few days.

托比已有几天不想吃东西了。

I used to enjoy tennis, but I’ve gone off it a bit now.

我以前很喜欢打网球，但现在有点不大感兴趣了。

She seems to have gone off Mark since he’s grown a beard.

自从马克留了胡子，她就好像不喜欢他了。

no longer taking something such as a drug or medicine

The operation was a success, and she’s off the morphine.

手术很成功，她也不再需要注射吗啡了。

food that is off is no longer fresh enough to eat

Do you think the meat’s [gone off](bold)?

used to say that a particular kind of food is not available in a restaurant although it is on the menu

〔餐厅里菜单上的某道菜〕没有了，不供应

I’m sorry, the fish pie is off today, sir.

很抱歉，先生，今天没有鱼肉馅饼。

Sales figures for last year were a little off compared with those of the previous year.

和前一年相比，去年的销售额略有下降。

Guess again. You’re [way off](bold)(=very far from being correct).


off

a day, week etc when you are not doing something as well as you usually do

发挥不正常[失水准]的一天/一个星期等

Brian never usually loses his temper – he must be [having an off day](bold).

布赖恩一般从不发火——他肯定是今天心情不好。

a period or season which is not as busy as other times of the year

In the off season, there’s hardly anyone staying at the hotel.

淡季的时候，宾馆里几乎没什么人住。

used to talk about a pair of things such as wheels on a car, to mean the one on the right

〔车轮等成对的物体之中〕右边的，右侧的


off

〔比赛或旅程的〕开始，出发

The horses were in line, ready for the off.

赛马已站成一排，准备出闸。

She was doubtful about the interview from the off.

她从一开始就对面谈心存疑虑。


off

[v](bold) <[T](bold)> ([AmE](special)) [informal](special)