material

cloth used for making clothes, curtains etc

Man-made fabrics such as polyester are easy to wash and iron.

woven material, especially material made from natural substances such as cotton and wool, which has not yet been made into any other products

The main trade was the production of woollen cloth.

a general word for all types of cloth – used especially when talking about the business of producing and selling them

Textiles are one of Mexico’s main exports.

a substance, especially one that can be used for making things

The island has to import oil and other raw materialsmaterials used for making things.

a type of material such as a chemical or a mineral

The green colour of the leaf is due to a substance called chlorophyll.

Dioxin is one of the most toxic substances known to man.

a type of substance – used especially in the following phrases

It is important to add plenty of organic matter to the soil.

People throw away lots of vegetable matter.

a substance – used especially when you do not know exactly what it is

a solid substance such as wood, plastic, or metal

材料〔如木材、塑料、金属等〕

Animals depend on plant material for food.

a paper company which imports [raw materials](bold)(=substances which have not been treated) from North America.

从北美进口原材料的纸业公司

(also: [materials](bold) <[plural](bold)> )

the things that are used for making or doing something

Videos often make good teaching material.

录像常常可用作很好的教学材料。

information or ideas used in books, films etc

他的表演中包含许多新的内容。

Anita is collecting material for a novel.

安妮塔正在收集小说素材。

the [raw material](bold)(=information that has not been carefully examined) for an article

someone who is good enough for a particular job or position

当军官/管理人员等的材料

He’s a good soldier, but not really officer material.

他是个好士兵，但不是当军官的料。


material

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

relating to your money, possessions, living conditions etc, rather than the needs of your mind or soul

The spiritual life is more important than material possessions.

精神生活比物质财富更重要。

a society that places high importance on [material rewards](bold)

relating to the real world and physical objects, rather than religious or spiritual things

According to some, [the material world](bold) is all that exists.

有些人认为，物质世界就是存在的一切。

important and needing to be considered when making a decision

important and having a noticeable effect


maternal

typical of the way a good mother behaves or feels

Annie was wonderfully warm and maternal.

She seems to have a strong [maternal instinct](bold)(=desire to have babies and take care of them).

relating to a mother or to being a mother

the relationship between maternal age and infant mortality

生育年龄与婴儿死亡率之间的关系


maternity

relating to a woman who is pregnant or who has just had a baby

[maternity benefits/pay etc](bold)(=money that the government or employers give to a woman after she has had a baby)


math

蒂姆的数学和自然科学很好。

a set of simple [math problems](bold)(=questions that are related to math)


mathematical

ˌmæθəˈmætɪkəl◂

ˌmæθəˈmætɪkəl◂

calculating things in a careful exact way

The whole trip was planned with mathematical precision.

整个旅行计划得十分周密。

something that is completely certain to happen

肯定会发生的事，确定无疑的事

a very small chance that something will happen


mathematics

ˌmæθəˈmætɪks

ˌmæθəˈmætɪks

In meaning 1, [mathematics](bold)  is followed by a singular verb: [Mathematics is](bold) her best subject at school.

In meaning 2, [mathematics](bold)  can be followed by a singular or plural verb: The [mathematics](bold) of the project [is/are](bold) very complicated.

the science of numbers and of shapes, including algebra,geometry, and arithmetic

the calculations that are involved in a particular situation or plan


maths

She got top marks in maths and chemistry.

她数学和化学得了最高分。


matter

→ [grey matter](->grey matter) → [subject matter](->subject matter) [not mince matters](bold) at → [mince](->mince) 1 sense 3 [mind over matter](bold) at → [mind](->mind) 1 sense 43

It is a very serious matter to mislead the police.

(=something that needs to be dealt with quickly)

I was surprised that this weighty matter was decided so quickly.

Walking out over such a small matter may seem ridiculous.

Putting together the bookcases is a fairly simple matter.

This is a legal matter and should be discussed with a solicitor.

He wrote to him several times about practical matters to do with the house.

If you need further training, raise the matter with your manager.

They are meeting tonight to settle the matter.

(=keep discussing or asking about something)

She decided not to pursue the matter, as it obviously upset him.

(=try to find out the truth about something)

The police said they were investigating the matter.

(=stop discussing or worrying about something)

I was too curious to let the matter drop.

He consulted her on all matters of importance.

Safety standards in the industry have become a matter of concern.

a matter for debate/negotiation/discussion

(=something to be debated/negotiated etc)

How to solve the housing crisis is a matter for debate.

(=something people discuss and wonder about)

His future had become a matter for speculation.

(=be something that a particular person should decide)

Do not let yourself be distracted from the matter in hand.

(=be something serious and important, though it might seem funny)

A doctor’s bad handwriting is no laughing matter, because it can lead to errors.

The crux of the matter is: how do we prevent these floods from happening again?

(=things connected with or caused by a particular event)

Are there any matters arising from the report which you wish to discuss?

a subject or situation that you have to think about or deal with

〔必须考虑或处理的〕事情，问题

There are important matters we need to discuss.

我们有重要的事情需要讨论。

The legal arrangements for the sale are a matter for negotiation.

这笔买卖在法律上的安排需要经过谈判商定。

[Matter](bold)  is used especially in formal or official contexts. In everyday English, people usually use [subject](bold) , or just say [it](bold) :

[I’ve talked to him about [the matter](bold).](strike)

a situation that you are in or have been describing

〔正在面临或谈到的〕事情，情况，事态

Maybe some of these suggestions will help to improve matters.

也许这其中的有些建议会让情况好起来。

Matters can be more easily sorted out once you get to the resort.

你到了度假胜地之后，事情就好办了。

His long absences [didn’t help matters](bold)(=made the situation worse).

他长期缺席使事情变得更糟了。

[to make matters worse](bold)(=used to say that something makes a bad situation worse)

The team has lost the last two games and, to make matters worse, two of its best players are injured.

球队最近连输两场，雪上加霜的是，两个最优秀的队员受伤了。

[to complicate matters further](bold)(=used to say that something makes a complicated situation more complicated)

To complicate matters further, the law on this issue has been changed.

使情况更复杂的是，关于这个问题的法规也改变了。

the material that everything in the universe is made of, including solids, liquids, and gases

a substance that consists of waste material, solid material etc

废弃物/固体物质/有机物质/植物性物质等

a yellow or white substance in wounds or next to your eye

used when adding more details about what you have just said

‘Have you had many visitors yet?’ ‘No, as a matter of fact you’re the first.’

“到了很多客人吗？”“没有，事实上你是第一个。”

I knew him when we were in college – as a matter of fact we were on the same course.

我们在大学的时候我就认识他——事实上我们一起上过课。

what’s the matter?/something’s the matter/nothing’s the matter etc

used to ask or talk about why someone seems worried, unhappy, or ill, why something about a situation seems wrong, or why a machine seems not to be working properly

怎么了？/有点问题/没什么问题等

What’s the matter? You look as though you’ve been crying.

怎么了？你看上去好像哭过。

‘Is something the matter?’ ‘Just a headache – I’ll be fine in a minute.’

“怎么了？”“只是头疼——一会儿就好了。”

You look worried. Is there anything the matter?

你看上去有心事，出什么事了吗？

What’s the matter with your eye? It looks red.

你眼睛怎么了？看上去红红的。

I know something’s the matter. You’re frightened of something.

我知道有点问题，你在害怕什么事情。

Nothing’s the matter, honestly, I’m fine.

There was nothing the matter with it (=it was all right) when I lent it to him.

我把它借给他时还好好的。

She had something the matter with her back.

used when saying what you think is really true concerning a situation

The truth of the matter is that we don’t know exactly how the disease is spread.

实际情况是，我们不了解这种疾病究竟是怎么传播的。

used to say that what you are saying about one thing is also true about something else

Ben never touched beer, or any kind of alcohol for that matter.

本从来不碰啤酒，也不喝其他什么酒。

He’s an artist who has never been as well-known here, or for that matter as well-respected, as he has been in the USA.

作为一名艺术家，他在这里从未像他在美国那样出名，也不像在美国那样受人尊敬。

(also: [be (quite) another matter](bold) )

used to say that a situation or action is very different from the one you have just mentioned, and may not be as easy, pleasant etc

不是一回事，完全是另一码事

She didn’t mind seeing him in a group but an intimate dinner in a restaurant was another matter altogether.

大家在一起见见他，她并不介意，但是在饭店里亲密进餐就另当别论了。

to deal with a problem yourself because other people have failed to deal with it

〔因别人不能处理而〕把事情接过来亲自处理

Local people took matters into their own hands and hired their own security guards.

当地人自己动手来解决问题，雇用了他们自己的保安人员。

used to say that something will definitely happen in the future

只是时间问题〔用于说明某事必定会发生〕

It can only be a matter of time before someone is seriously injured.

有人受重伤只是时间早晚的问题。

a situation that is extremely serious or important, especially one in which someone could die

The delay in the arrival of the ambulance could be a matter of life and death.

救护车到达延误是关乎生死的问题。

Can’t it wait? It’s hardly a matter of life or death, is it?

就不能等等吗？这又不是生死攸关的事，对吧？

used to say that people have different opinions about something, especially when you yourself have a negative opinion

是看法问题〔尤用于持反对意见〕

Whether or not he is any good as a manager is a matter of opinion.

他是不是好经理，这是看法问题。

be a matter of (personal) taste/choice/preference

used to say that different people like different things

是个人口味/选择/喜好的问题

I can’t say which wine is best – it’s a matter of personal taste.

我无法说哪种酒最好——这是个人口味的问题。

to be something that you feel you must or must not do, because of your moral principles

She couldn’t take the money. It was a matter of principle.

她不能拿这笔钱，这是原则问题。

used to say that an action involves doing something

[be simply/largely/merely etc a matter of doing sth](bold)

Reducing the number of road deaths is not simply a matter of improving roads.

减少交通事故的死亡数字不单是改善道路状况的问题。

仅仅数秒/几周/几个小时等

The ambulance arrived in a matter of minutes.

The bullet missed his head [by a matter of](bold) inches.

子弹只差几英寸就击中他的头部。

because of a particular belief or quality

As a matter of fairness, he should be allowed to give his version of events.

为了公正起见，应该让他也来说说事情的原委。

used when you ask or tell someone something that interests you but is not important

Just as a matter of interest, which school did you go to?

你上的是哪所学校？我只是随便问问。

if something is done or should be done as a matter of urgency, it is done or should be done very soon

That procedure should be streamlined as a matter of urgency.

那个程序应当简化，这是当务之急。

if something is done as a matter of course or routine, it is the correct and usual thing to do in a particular situation

作为理所当然的事/按常规

We will contact your former employer as a matter of course.

我们将按常规和你以前的雇主联系。

used to say that something is true or that something happens whatever the situation is

Feeding a baby is a messy job no matter how careful you are.

给婴儿喂食，无论你怎么仔细，还是会弄得乱糟糟的。

I’m determined to visit Japan no matter what it costs.

He visited her every day no matter the weather.

无论天气如何，他每天都去看她。

used to say that you will definitely do something

不管（发生）什么事；无论如何

我今晚无论如何都会给你打电话。

used to say that something is not important and will not affect a situation

‘I’m afraid I forgot to bring a towel.’ ‘No matter, I’ve got one you can borrow.’

“不好意思，我忘记带毛巾了。”“不要紧，我有一条可以借给你用。”

It’s a matter of fact that the team have not performed as well this season.

这个赛季球队表现不好，这是事实。

something that is not important or not difficult – used when you really think something is important or difficult

某事这一小事〔当你认为某事重要或难办时所说的反语〕

He seemed unworried by the small matter of the war that was in progress.

战争还在进行，可他好像对这种小事毫不担心。

There’s the small matter of tonight’s game if we are to reach the finals.

我们若要进入决赛，还有今晚这场小小的比赛。

I would always be an outsider here – no matter that I spoke fluent Spanish.

我在这里总是一个外人——即便我的西班牙语说得很流利。

things that are written for people to read

As well as textbooks and other printed matter, courses may include video and audio cassettes.


matter

to be important, especially to be important to you, or to have an effect on what happens

〔尤指对某人自己或对发生之事〕重要，要紧，有关系

If I have to stay late at work tonight, it won’t matter because we can go out another night.

如果今晚我必须工作到很晚的话，那也没关系，我们可以改天晚上再出去。

It doesn’t matter what you wear, as long as you look neat and tidy.

穿什么无所谓，只要看上去干净整洁就行。

It does not matter that the gun was in fact unloaded.

枪里其实没子弹，但这并不重要。

Do you think it matters that the cups and saucers don’t match?

你觉得茶杯与杯托不相配要紧吗？

Just give me $5 – it doesn’t matter about the rest.

给我五美元就行——其余的无所谓。

He had lost many of the people who mattered to him.

他失去了许多对他很重要的人。

It mattered a great deal to her what other people thought of her.

别人怎么看她对她来说非常重要。

I don’t think it matters much what you study.

我认为你学什么不是很重要。

campaigning on issues that [really matter](bold)

[all that matters/the only thing that matters](bold)

Money was the only thing which mattered to him.

对他来说，钱是唯一重要的东西。

I don’t care what it looks like – [what matters is](bold) that it works.

我不在乎外观——要紧的是它要管用。

At last she was with the man she loved and [nothing else mattered](bold).

最终她和她所爱的男人在一起了，其他都无关紧要。

She said very little during the meal. [Not that it mattered](bold)(=it was not important).

她吃饭时话很少，那倒无所谓。

used to tell someone that you are not angry or upset about something, especially something that they have done

没关系〔尤指对他人所做之事表示并不生气或介意〕

‘I’ve spilled some coffee on the carpet.’ ‘It doesn’t matter.’

“我把咖啡溅到地毯上了。”“没关系。”

used to say that you do not mind which one of two things you have

无所谓〔用于表示选哪个都行〕

‘Red or white wine?’ ‘Oh, either. It doesn’t matter.’

“红葡萄酒还是白葡萄酒？”“噢，都行，无所谓。”

used to say that something is not important

It all happened so long ago now, what does it matter?

这都是很久以前的事了，还有什么关系呢？


mature

[maturely](bold) adv. eg: If you want us to treat you as an adult, you have to act maturely.

someone, especially a child or young person, who is mature behaves in a sensible and reasonable way, as you would expect an adult to behave

〔尤指小孩或年轻人举止〕成熟的，理智的，明白事理的

Laura is very [mature for](bold) her [age](bold).

相对她的年龄来说劳拉是很成熟的。

We’re [mature enough](bold) to disagree on this issue but still respect each other.

我们都很成熟，尽管我们对此事意见不同，但还是彼此尊重。

Mature apple trees are typically 20 feet tall.

成熟的苹果树一般有20英尺高。

The new leader wants his country to be seen as a mature democracy.

The human brain isn’t [fully mature](bold) until about age 25.

人的大脑要到25岁左右才完全发育成熟。

Most girls are sexually mature by about 14 years of age.

mature cheese, wine etc has a good strong taste which has developed during a long period of time

a polite or humorous way of describing someone who is no longer young

不再年轻的，成熟的〔礼貌或幽默的说法〕

a respectable gentleman [of mature years](bold)

a mature piece of work by a writer or an artist is done late in their life and shows a high level of understanding or skill

成熟的；技巧娴熟的；老练的

His mature work reveals a deep sense of enjoyment of nature.

他的成熟作品流露出对大自然深深的热爱。

after thinking carefully and sensibly about something for a long time

On mature reflection we have decided to decline their offer.

经过慎重考虑，我们已决定谢绝他们的提议。

a mature bond or policy is ready to be paid

〔债券或保单〕到期应付的

a mature industry or market is one where growth is quite low and there are fewer competitors than before


mature

As the fish matures, its colours and patternings change.

随着发育成熟，这种鱼的颜色和斑纹都会改变。

她已经成长为一名优秀的作家。

to become sensible and start to behave sensibly and reasonably, like an adult

He has matured a lot since he left home.

自从离家之后他成熟多了。

He wants to prove just how much he has matured both as a player and as a man.

他想证明作为一名运动员而且身为一个男人他已经成熟了多少。

if a financial arrangement such as a bond or an insurance policy matures, it becomes ready to be paid

if cheese, wine etc matures, or if it is matured, it develops a good strong taste over a period of time

（使）〔干酪、葡萄酒等〕制成，（使）酿成；（使）酿熟

Few beers brewed in Britain are matured in the bottle.

英国酿制的啤酒很少是在酒瓶里成熟的。

The olives are pulped, then left to mature.

橄榄被捣成浆，然后放着慢慢发酵成熟。


maturity

the quality of behaving in a sensible way like an adult

Beth shows a maturity way beyond her 16 years.

贝丝表现出一种远远超出她16岁年龄的成熟。

One day you’ll have the maturity to understand.

有一天等你长大后你就明白了。

the time or state when someone or something is fully grown or developed

The tree will reach only 5 feet at maturity.

这种树长成也就五英尺高。

These insects reach [full maturity](bold) after a few weeks.

这些昆虫经过几周就会完全发育了。

the era when the Republic came to [political maturity](bold)

该共和国在政治上步入成熟的时期

He lacks the emotional maturity to appreciate poetry.

他情感上还不够成熟，欣赏不了诗歌。

the time when a financial arrangement such as a bond or an insurance policy becomes ready to be paid

〔债券、保单等的〕到期时间，到期日


maximize

[maximization](bold) /ˌmæksəmaɪˈzeɪʃ/ US /-səmə-/  n. <U>

BrE also: [maximise](bold)  [v](bold) <[T](bold)>

to increase something such as profit or income as much as possible

使增加到最大限度，使最大化

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

The company’s main function is to maximize profit.

该公司的主要目的是要把利润最大化。

to click on a special part on a window on a computer screen so that it becomes as big as the screen

to use something in a way that gives you the greatest practical value or the best results

最大限度地利用，充分利用

The career center will help you maximize your opportunities.

职业介绍中心将帮助你充分利用机会。


maximum

the maximum amount, quantity, speed etc is the largest that is possible or allowed

最大量的，最大限度的，最大值的

这辆汽车的最高时速为120英里。

They made maximum use of the resources available.

他们充分利用可获取的资源。

To get the maximum benefit, do the exercises slowly.

要想获得最佳的效果，这些运动要做得慢一点。

Display the hologram under a strong light for maximum effect.

把立体全息图放在强光下展示以得到最佳效果。

The plant is operating [at maximum capacity](bold).

这家工厂正在开足马力生产。

Work out the maximum amount you can afford to spend.

算一下你最多能花费多少钱。

The award will consist of a lump sum to a [maximum value](bold) of $5,000.

奖学金最高将是5,000美元，一次性给付。

She faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.

她面临的最高刑罚是无期徒刑。


maximum

Entries are limited to an absolute maximum of 100 words.

The legal maximum for election contributions was $1,000.

A pregnant woman should drink no more than the recommended maximum of 4 units per week.

Each submarine will have a maximum of 128 warheads.

These sheep reach a maximum of 70 kg at adulthood.

The fine must not exceed the statutory maximum.

The amount you will have to pay is limited to 10% of the total.

To lose weight, allow yourself only 1,500 calories per day.

the largest number or amount that is possible or is allowed

〔可能或可允许的〕最大量，最大值

He faces a maximum of seven years in prison.

The company will reimburse you [up to a maximum of](bold) $1,000.

公司最多将补偿你1,000美元。

We might have a third child, but that’s [the absolute maximum](bold).

我们可能会要第三个孩子，但这绝对是极限了。


may

You say [May I?](bold)  when asking for permission: May I ask you a question?

You say [you may](bold)  when giving someone permission: You may go now.

You say that something [may](bold)  happen or be true: I may be late. He may be in his office.

You say that something [may have](bold)  happened: They may have already gone home.

You use [may not ](bold) in negative sentences:I may not be here much longer. He may not have understood what you said.

In everyday English, you can use [might](bold)  in the same way as [may](bold)  to say that something is possible.

You can say that something [might](bold)  happen or be true: I might be late. He might be in his office.

You can say that something [might have](bold)  happened: They might have already gone home.

In everyday English, you can also use [might not](bold)  or [mightn’t](bold) : I might not be here much longer. He mightn’t have understood.

if something may happen or may be true, there is a possibility that it will happen or be true but this is not certain

我可能会迟到，所以别等我。

Some chemicals may cause environmental damage.

有些化学物品可能会给环境造成破坏。

There may not be enough money to pay for the repairs.

They may have called while you were out.

你出去时他们可能给你打过电话。

[It may be that](bold) Minoan ships were built and repaired here.

米诺斯人的船可能就是在这里建造和修理的。

Your job [may well](bold) involve some travelling (=it is fairly likely).

你的工作很可能有时需要出差。

if something may be done, completed etc in a particular way, that is how it is possible to do it

The problem may be solved in a number of different ways.

这个问题可以用几种不同的方式解决。

used to say that someone is allowed to do something

可以〔表示允许某人做某事〕

There is a set of rules to show what members may and may not do.

有一套规定写明会员可以做什么，不可以做什么。

You may sit down or stand, just as you wish.

你可以坐着也可以站着，随你的便。

No one may own more than 10% of the shares.

任何人都不可以拥有超过10%的股份。

used to ask politely for permission to do something

我/我们可以 …吗？〔用于礼貌地请求同意〕

May we use your office for a few minutes?

我们可以借你的办公室用几分钟吗？

used to say, ask, or suggest something in a polite way

可以〔用于礼貌地说话、提问或提出建议〕

All these things, if I may say so, are entirely irrelevant.

所有的这一切，如果我可以这么说的话，都毫不相关。

我能问一下谁是沃瑟斯庞吗？

May I suggest that you consider the matter further before taking any action.

used to say that even though one thing is true, something else which seems very different is also true

也许，可能〔用于表示虽然一种情况属实，但是另一种似乎很不同的情况也属实〕

I may be slow, but at least I don’t make stupid mistakes.

我可能是很慢，但至少我不犯愚蠢的错误。

Although this may sound like a simple process, great care is needed.

虽然步骤也许听上去简单，但还是要非常小心。

Strange as it may seem, I always felt I belonged here.

尽管这好像很奇怪，但我总是觉得我属于这里。

used to suggest that someone should do something, because there is no good reason to do anything else

If there’s nothing more to do, we may as well go to bed.

如果没有别的事要做，我们倒不如去睡觉。

You may as well tell us now – we’ll find out sooner or later.

你不如现在就告诉我们——我们迟早会知道的。

愿某人/某事做某事〔表达一种希望或祝愿〕

We pray for those who died – may they rest in peace.

我们为逝者祈祷——愿他们安息。

It is a fine tradition and long may it continue!

这是个很好的传统，但愿能保持下去！

used after ‘so that’ or ‘in order that’ to say that someone does something in order to make something else possible

The hero sacrifices his life so that his friend may live.

主人公牺牲了自己的生命，让他的朋友能够活下去。

in spite of what you have just mentioned

Perhaps there isn’t one single system that will work for everyone. Be that as it may, we all need order in our lives.

也许并不存在一个人人都适用的制度。尽管如此，我们的生活还是需要秩序的。

used to say that there is a good reason for a reaction, question, or feeling

很有理由〔作出某种反应、提出某个问题或产生某种情绪〕

‘What’s all the noise?’ ‘You [may well ask](bold).’

“什么声音这么吵？”“你问得好。”


may

the white or pink flowers of the hawthorn


May

the fifth month of the year, between April and June

她去年5月份开始在这儿工作。

那家剧院是5月份开业的。

We don’t have any meetings on May 6th, do we?

我们5月6日没有会议，是吧？

An agreement was signed on 6th May 1977.

1977年5月6日签署了一份协议。


maybe

used to say that something may happen or may be true but you are not certain

也许，大概，可能〔表示不肯定〕

Maybe it’s all just a big misunderstanding.

也许这只是一个很大的误会。

‘Do you think he’ll come back?’ ‘Maybe.’

“你认为他会回来吗？”“也许会吧。”

Maybe they’re right, but [maybe not](bold).

也许他们是对的，但也许不是。

You have talent, [maybe even](bold) genius.

你很有才能，甚至可以说有天赋。

He said he’d finish the work soon – maybe tomorrow.

他说他很快就会完成那项工作——也许是明天。

In written English, people often prefer to use [perhaps](bold) , because it is slightly more formal than [maybe](bold) :

[Perhaps](bold) this explains why the figure is so high.

used to reply to a suggestion or idea when either you are not sure if you agree with it, or you do not want to say ‘yes’ or ‘no’

也许吧〔用于对某个建议或想法的回答，表示不置可否〕

‘I think Sheila would be an excellent manager.’ ‘Maybe.’

“我想希拉会是一位优秀的经理。”“也许是吧。”

used to show that you are not sure of an amount or number

也许〔表示对某一数额或数目不能确定〕

The problems really started maybe two or three years ago.

这些问题可能是两三年以前真正开始出现的。

He looked like he was thirty, maybe thirty-five years old.

他看上去有30岁，也许35岁。

used to make a suggestion you are not quite sure about

或许〔用以提出不十分确定的建议〕

If the bill doesn’t seem right, maybe you should give them a call.

如果账单不对，你或许应该打个电话给他们。

Maybe I can ride the bicycle and follow you.

也许我可以骑自行车跟着你。


mayor

the person who has been elected to lead the government of a town or city

someone who is chosen or elected each year in Britain to represent a town or city at official public ceremonies

〔英国每年选一次、代表某一城市出席官方公开庆祝活动的〕名誉市长


maze

a complicated and confusing arrangement of streets, roads etc

[maze of streets/paths/tunnels etc](bold)

我被领着穿过迷宫似的走廊。

a large number of rules, instructions etc which are complicated and difficult to understand

纷繁复杂的事物〔如规则、命令等〕

a specially designed system of paths, often in a park or public garden, which is difficult to find your way through

我们在迷宫中彻底迷了路。

a children’s game, played on paper, in which you try to draw a line through a complicated group of lines without crossing any of them

迷宫〔一种儿童纸上游戏〕


me

[pron](bold) <[object form of ‘I’](bold)>

used by the person speaking or writing to refer to himself or herself

那是我，站在左边的那一个。

used to tell someone that you feel the same way as they do, that you are in a similar situation etc

“我饿了！”“我也是。”

used to say that you agree with a negative statement that someone has just made

我也一样〔表示同意别人说的否定语〕

‘I can’t believe he’s fifty.’ ‘Me neither.’

“我不相信他有50岁。”“我也不信。”

time when you can relax or do things that you enjoy doing, usually on your own

私人专属时间〔在这段时间里，可以放松自己或做自己喜欢的事〕

Recognize that your partner needs some me time.

要明白你的伴侣也需要有属于自己的时间。


meal

a meal that you eat in the late morning, instead of breakfast or lunch

a meal that you eat in the middle of the day

a meal that you eat in the afternoon or evening

the main meal of the day, which most people eat in the evening

a small meal that you eat in the evening, in British English; the main meal that you eat in the evening, in American English

a meal that you eat outdoors, consisting of food that you cooked or prepared earlier

a meal that you cook outdoors over hot coals or wood and eat outdoors

a small amount of food that is eaten between main meals or instead of a meal

food eaten with the main course, such as vegetables

one of the separate parts of a meal, such as the starter or the dessert

a tempting plate of hors d'oeuvres including olives and small pieces of roast beetroot

the main part of a meal. [entrée](bold) is used especially on restaurant

For the main course we had cheese and onion pie.

They serve a wide range of desserts, including ice cream and home-made apple pie.

We usually have our evening meal fairly early.

When they had eaten their meal, they went out for a walk.

He took Anna out for a meal and then to the theatre.

a three-course meal, including appetizer and dessert

(=a meal that is large enough and tastes good)

We don’t have a big meal at lunchtime, usually just sandwiches.

With a hot meal inside me, I began to feel better.

‘It was a delicious meal,’ Merrill said politely.

A heavy meal is likely to make you feel sleepy.

(=with some of each type of food, to keep you healthy)

We make healthy, balanced meals for our children.

(=one with very nice and often complicated food)

The day ended with a gourmet meal in a good restaurant.

I’m not hungry enough to eat a full meal.

Healthy meals can still be quick and easy to prepare.

Many of the children are receiving free school meals.

(=ones that are eaten at the same time each day)

Patients are advised to eat regular meals.

an occasion when you eat food, for example breakfast or dinner, or the food that you eat on that occasion

我们一定要找个时间一起吃顿饭。

Dinner is the main meal of the day for most people.

晚饭是大多数人一天中的主餐。

grain that has been crushed into a powder, for making flour or animal food

to spend too much time or effort doing something

花费过多的时间[精力]做某事，对某事小题大做

He made a real meal out of parking the car.

他为了把车停放好真肯花时间。


mean

[Mean](bold)  is not used in the progressive in any of its senses, except for sense 3. You say: What does this word mean? This means trouble.
Don’t say: [What is this word meaning?](strike)  [This is meaning trouble.](strike)

[past tense and past participle](italic) [meant](bold) /ment/

to have or represent a particular meaning

[What does](bold) ‘patronizing’ [mean](bold)?

The report fails to define [what is meant by](bold) the term ‘key issues’.

报告没有明确“关键问题”一词指的是什么。

This light means you’re running low on fuel.

这个灯亮说明汽油不多了。

In written English, people often prefer to say that something [indicates](bold)  something is the case, rather than using [mean](bold) :

The light [indicates](bold) that fuel supplies are low.

to intend a particular meaning when you say something

I meant we’d have to leave early – that’s all.

我的意思是说我们必须早点走——没有别的。

It’s pretty obvious [what](bold) she [means](bold).

[(do) you mean](bold) [spoken](special)(=used to check you have understood what someone intended to say)

Do you mean you’ve changed or Chris has changed?

你是说你变了还是克里斯变了？

[do/if you know/see what I mean?](bold) [spoken](special)(=used to check that someone understands you)

I want to buy her something really special, if you know what I mean.

我想给她买一件很特别的东西，你明白我的意思吧。

We’re still married but living apart in the same house, if you see what I mean.

我们仍是夫妻，但在同一个房子里分开住，你懂我的意思了吧。

Oh yeah! [I see what you mean](bold)(=I understand what you are trying to say).

[What I mean is](bold), I don’t feel alone anymore(=used to explain more about what you have said).

我的意思是我不再感到孤单了。

‘I didn’t really like him.’ '[I know what you mean](bold), I didn’t get on with him either (=used to say you understand and have had the same experience).

“我不太喜欢他。”“我知道你的意思，我和他也合不来。”

‘In three hours’ time, I’ll be a free man.‘ ’[How do you mean](bold)(=used to ask someone to explain what they have just said)?'

“三个小时以后，我就是自由人了。”“你什么意思？”

to intend to do something or intend that someone else should do something

I’ve been meaning to ask you if you want to come for a meal next week.

我一直想问你，下个星期你想不想来吃顿饭。

mean for sb to do sth [especially AmE](bold)

我并没有让她受到伤害的意思。

I’m sure she [didn’t mean it](bold)(=she did not intend to upset or hurt someone).

[mean no harm/offence/disrespect](bold)(=not intend to harm, offend etc someone)

He may sound a bit rude at times, but he [means well](bold)(=intends to be helpful or kind, even if it does not seem like that).

他讲话有时也许是粗鲁了一点，但用意是好的。

I wasn’t criticizing you, I really [meant it for the best](bold)(=wanted to be helpful, although my actions had the wrong effect).

我不是在批评你，我真的是出于好意。

to have a particular result or involve something

The merger will mean the closure of the company’s Sydney office.

合并意味着公司的悉尼办事处要关闭。

Don’t let him see you. It will only mean trouble.

别让他看见你。那只会造成麻烦。

The high cost of housing means that many young people can’t afford to buy a house.

房价高意味着很多年轻人买不起房子。

My new job will mean travelling all over the world.

我的新工作需要在世界各地到处跑。

Dieting also means being careful about which foods you buy.

节食还意味着要谨慎选择买什么样的食物。

if a name, word etc means something to you, you are familiar with it or you understand it

〔对某个名字、词语等〕十分熟识，能理解

He said his name was ‘Randall’ but it [meant nothing to](bold) me (=I was not familiar with it).

他说他的名字叫兰德尔，但我一点印象也没有。

[Does](bold) the name Bryce [mean anything to](bold) you?

你还记得布赖斯这个名字吗？

You need to use analogies which will [mean something to](bold) the reader.

你要用读者能够理解的比喻。

to be serious about what you are saying or writing

With children, if you say ‘no’, you have to [mean it](bold).

对待孩子，你如果说“不行”，就要说到做到。

I [meant what](bold) I [said](bold) earlier.

You don’t [really mean](bold) that, do you?

你不会真的要那样，对吗？

used for saying how important someone or something is to you

我知道你的工作对你有多重要。

[mean the world to sb/mean everything to sb](bold)(=be very important to someone)

Time [meant nothing](bold)(=it was not important) to me while I was travelling.

旅行时，时间对我就不重要了。

Of course the relationship [meant something](bold) to me.

当然这种关系对我还是挺重要的。

to be a sign that something is true or will happen

Finding a lump does not necessarily mean you have cancer.

发现有肿块并不一定就意味着得了癌症。

Clear skies mean that it will be a cold night.

天空晴朗无云说明晚间会冷。

Just because he’s been in prison, it doesn’t mean that he’s violent.

进过监狱并不能说明他就很暴力。

used when you do not understand what someone is trying to say

你是什么意思？〔用于表示没有听懂某人说的话〕

‘You’ll be careful won’t you?’ ‘What do you mean?’

“你会小心的，是吧？”“你是什么意思？”

used when you are very surprised or annoyed by what someone has just said

你是什么意思？〔用于表示对某人刚说过的话感到非常吃惊或不快〕

What do you mean, you’ve cancelled the trip?

你什么意思，你把这次旅行取消了？

used when you are very annoyed by what someone has just done

你是什么意思〔用于表示某人的做法让你非常生气〕

What do you mean by calling me at this time of night?

你这么晚打电话给我是什么意思？

used to say that a particular person or thing is the one that you are talking about, pointing to etc

“嗨，你！”“你说的是我吗？”

I meant the pink dress, not the red one.

我指的是那条粉红色的连衣裙，不是那条红的。

used when explaining or giving an example of something, or when pausing to think about what you are going to say next

我的意思是〔用于解释或举例，或停下来考虑接着说什么时〕

You’re more of an expert than me. I mean, you’ve got all that experience.

你比我更专业，我是说，你有那么丰富的经验。

It’s just not right. I mean, it’s unfair isn’t it?

这就是不对。我是说这不公平，你说呢？

used to quickly correct something you have just said

我是说〔用以马上纠正刚说过的话〕

She plays the violin, I mean the viola, really well.

她小提琴——我是说中提琴——拉得确实好。

used when something that happens proves what you said before

我说得没错吧？〔表示发生的事恰好证实了你先前说过的话〕

See what I mean? Every time she calls me up she wants me to do something for her.

我说得没错吧？她每次给我打电话都是要我给她办事。

used when someone is saying the same thing that you were trying to say earlier

我就是这个意思〔用于表示某人说的话正是你刚才想说的〕

‘We might not have enough money.’ ‘That’s what I mean, so we’d better find out the price first.’

“我们也许钱不够。”“我也是这个意思，所以我们最好先弄清楚价钱。”

used when adding a reason or explanation for something you have just said, especially something you feel strongly about

我意思是说〔用以对自己刚刚说的话补充理由或解释，尤其是对有强烈看法的事情〕

Of course she wants to see the children – I mean to say, it’s only natural isn’t it?

她当然是想见孩子的，我的意思是说，这不过是人之常情，对吧？

This decision shows the public that we mean business.

这个决定向公众表明我们是认真的。

if you are meant to do something, you should do it, especially because someone has told you to or because you are responsible for it

〔尤因某人的吩咐或根据职责〕应该[必须]做某事

Come on, Ellen, you’re meant to be helping me.

好了，埃伦，你是应该帮助我的。

I thought the police were meant to protect people.

我以为警察就是要保护人民的。

The diagram is meant to show the different stages of the process.

这个图表意在显示整个过程的各个不同阶段。

used to say that you have heard or read that something is good, bad etc

听说很好/极出色/很差等

to be intended for a particular person or purpose

为某人[某目的]而准备的

if two people are meant for each other, they are very suitable as partners for each other

used to say that someone is not at all suitable for a particular job or activity

某人根本不是从事某种工作[活动]的料

used to say that you think a situation was certain to happen and that no one could have prevented it

Dan left me after a month so I guess it just wasn’t meant to be.

丹一个月后就离开了我，所以我想我们注定不能在一起。

to have experienced a particular situation, so that you know what it is like

I know what it means to be alone in a foreign country.

我知道独自一人身处异国是什么滋味。


mean

[comparative](italic) [meaner](bold) [superlative](italic) [meanest](bold)

残酷的；不善良的；刻薄的

我觉得让他来帮忙有点残忍。

跟人玩这样的恶作剧够损的。

[It was mean of](bold) him not to invite her.

not wanting to spend money, or not wanting to use much of something

He’s too mean to buy a present for his wife.

他很吝啬，给他妻子买件礼物都不肯。

It was supposed to be garlic bread, but they’d been a bit mean with the garlic.

本应该是蒜香面包，但他们用蒜有点吝啬。

something that is very difficult to do, so that someone who does it deserves to be admired

不小的业绩/成就/任务等

They sold 1 million cards in the first year of business – no mean feat, given the problems many businesses are facing.

他们在开张的第一年就卖出了一百万张卡，考虑到许多公司面临的种种问题，真是很不错的业绩。

是一位了不起的演员/选手等

Kinnock is no mean performer on the rugby field.

金诺克在橄榄球场上是个了不起的运动员。

used to say that something is very good or that someone is very good at doing something

很好的某事物；很拿手的某事

They serve a mean Sunday brunch at the restaurant on Fourth Street.

第四大街的那家饭店提供丰盛的周日早午餐。

The study involved 60 patients with a mean age of 58.2 years.

这项研究涉及60名患者，平均年龄为58.2岁。

年平均降雨量为852毫米。

She walked briskly through the mean and dirty streets.

她快步穿过一条条穷街陋巷。


mean

7、9和14的平均数为10。

a method of doing something which is between two very different methods, and better than either of them

…的中庸之道， …的折中办法〔介于两种不同办法之间而比两者都好的一种办法〕

It’s a case of finding the mean between firmness and compassion.

这是要在强硬和同情之间找出折中的办法。


meaning

the thoughts or ideas that someone wants you to understand from what they say, do, write etc

What do you think is the meaning of the poem?

the main idea and meaning of something such as an article or a speech

Read the story quickly first, just to get the gist of it.

I think I understand the gist of what you’re saying.

the main set of ideas involved in something such as an explanation, argument, or account of something – often used when the ideas are not stated directly

The drift of his letter is that he wants to come back.

the most important meaning of something such as an argument or piece of writing

The essence of what he is saying is that human character is formed by society.

the most important message of an argument, explanation etc, especially when it consists of a set of connected ideas leading to a final answer or idea

The overall thrust of her argument is that we need to do more to protect our environment.

the most important ideas contained in an argument or piece of writing

The substance of Marx’s views is the same in both of these books.

His article lacks substance there are no interesting or important ideas in it.

the meaning of what someone says, writes etc that is not stated directly, but that people are expected to understand

The implication was that they did not consider Harrison to be trustworthy.

The same word may have several different meanings.

The word ‘chaos’ has taken on a special scientific meaning.

The pictures help the children understand the meanings of the words.

Do you know the meaning of the word ‘paraphrase’?

(=understand what someone is saying in an indirect way)

He’s not like other people, if you get my meaning.

She suddenly grasped the meaning of his frantic gestures.

In conversation, even a pause may carry meaning.

the use of hand signals to convey meaning

The term ‘stress’ has a precise meaning to an engineer.

She felt there was a hidden meaning behind his words.

Everything he said had a double meaning.

The literal meaning of ‘telephone’ is ‘far-away sound’.

They are a 'nuisance' in the ordinary meaning, not the legal meaning, of that word.

(=different from its usual or basic meaning)

The expression has a metaphorical meaning.

Children understand the true meaning of these words.

Colours often have symbolic meanings; for example, black signifies grief in Western cultures.

the thing or idea that a word, expression, or sign represents

I don’t know the precise meaning of the word ‘gleaned’.

我不知道gleaned这个单词的确切意思。

〔某人所说、所做、所写等想要表达的〕意思

The meaning of her words was clear. We’d lost our jobs.

她的话意思很清楚，我们失业了。

She hardly dared to understand the meaning behind his statement.

她几乎不敢去想他话语背后的意思。

这是什么意思？〔用以要求作出解释〕

What’s the meaning of this? I asked you to be here an hour ago!

这是什么意思？我让你一小时之前就要到的！

the quality that makes life, work etc seem to have a purpose or value

Life seemed to have [lost](bold) its [meaning](bold) since Janet’s death.

珍妮特去世以后生活似乎失去了意义。

Her studies no longer seemed to [have](bold) any [meaning](bold).

她的研究似乎不再有任何意义。

For many people it is religion that [gives meaning to](bold) their existence.

对于很多人来说，是宗教使他们的存在有了意义。

the true nature and importance of something

〔某事物的〕意义，本质，重要性

We seem to have forgotten the [true meaning](bold) of Christmas.

我们似乎忘记了圣诞节的真正意义。

to have, or not have, experience and understanding of a particular situation or feeling

对 …（没）有体验和了解，（不）知道 …的含义

Living in a war zone, the children knew the meaning of fear.

生活在战区，孩子们知道什么叫恐惧。

Guilty! She doesn’t know the meaning of the word!

内疚！她才不懂什么叫内疚呢！


meaningful

having a meaning that is easy to understand and makes sense

Without more data we cannot make a meaningful comparison of the two systems.

如果没有更多的数据，我们就无法对这两个体系作有意义的比较。

Teaching history to five-year-olds in a [meaningful way](bold) can be very difficult.

给五岁的孩子用他们能够明白的方式讲授历史很难。

Rules must be put in a context that is meaningful to the children.

规则必须放在孩子们能理解的情形中才行。

a look that clearly expresses the way someone feels, even though nothing is said

意味深长的眼神/一瞥/微笑等

Sam and Barbara exchanged meaningful glances.

萨姆和芭芭拉交换了会意的眼神。

有意义的；严肃的；重要的；有用的

They want a chance to do [meaningful work](bold).

他们想找个机会做有意义的工作。

I want a mature and meaningful relationship.

我要的是一种成熟而认真的关系。


meaningless

having no purpose or importance and therefore not worth doing or having

无目的的；无意义的；无价值的；不重要的

He said a few meaningless words to his hostess and looked around the room.

他向女主人说了几句无关紧要的话，又环视了一下房间。

a statistic that is absolutely meaningless

not having a meaning that you can understand or explain

〔意义〕不可理解的，无法解释的

Chinese characters are just meaningless symbols to me.

汉字对我来说只是些无法理解的符号。


means

[ways and means](bold) at → [way](->way) 1 sense 1

Speed bumps are an effective means of stopping cars from going too fast.

Local radio is a useful means of advertising.

Then, horses and carts were the only means of transport available.

Is this really the best means of achieving our goal?

Surveys are an important means of gathering information.

Their protests will continue, but only by legal means.

He was accused of attempting to overthrow the government using unlawful means.

Anyone trying to use unfair means in an examination will be reported to the University.

(=a way of travelling, for example using a car, bus, bicycle etc)

The tram is an efficient means of transport.

(=a way of talking to someone, for example by phone, writing etc)

Newspapers are still an important means of communication.

(=a way of expressing your feelings or opinions)

Music and art are important means of expression.

(=an official document that shows who you are)

Do you have any means of identification?

(=factories and equipment used for producing goods – used especially in Marxism)

the class of people which owns the means of production

(=the result you achieve is more important than the way you do it)

It’s too bad if people get hurt - the end justifies the means.

(=something you do only to achieve a result, not because you want to do it or because it is important)

Many of the students saw the course as a means to an end:  a way of getting a good job.

They were determined to achieve victory, by fair means or foul.

There was no path, and they had no means of knowing where they were.

He will use any means to get what he wants.

For most people, the car is still their main [means of transport](bold).

对大多数人来说汽车仍是他们主要的交通工具。

The only [means of communication](bold) was sign language.

The window was our only [means of escape](bold).

跳窗是我们唯一的逃生方法。

Do you have any [means of identification](bold)?

你有什么身份证明文件吗？

Homework should not be used as [a means of](bold) controlling children.

家庭作业不应该作为约束儿童的手段。

I [had no means of](bold) telling him I would be late.

我没有办法告诉他我会迟到。

Brian was prepared to [use any means](bold)  to get what he wanted.

布赖恩准备不择手段地得到他想要的。

They had entered the country [by unlawful means](bold).

他们通过非法途径进入了这个国家。

the means by which performance is assessed

I don’t have the means to support a family.

Paying for your children to go to a private school is [beyond the means of](bold) most people (=too expensive for most people).

出钱送孩子上私立学校是大多数人无力承担的。

Try to live [within](bold) your [means](bold)(=only spending what you can afford).

过日子要尽可能量入为出。

His father was a [man of means](bold)(=a rich man).

used to mean ‘of course’ when politely allowing someone to do something or agreeing with a suggestion

“我能带艾伦来吗？”“当然可以！”

It is by no means certain that the game will take place.

比赛是否会举行完全不能确定。

她不是个坏孩子，绝对不是。

The blocks are raised by means of pulleys.

那些大块物件是用滑轮吊起来的。

something that you do only to achieve a result, not because you want to do it or because it is important

For Geoff, the job was simply a means to an end.

对杰夫来说，那份工作仅仅是达到目的的手段而已。

the material, tools, and equipment that are used in the production of goods


meantime

in the period of time between now and a future event, or between two events in the past

The doctor will be here soon. In the meantime, try and relax.

医生很快就来，现在尽量放松一下。

I didn’t see her for another five years, and in the meantime she had got married and had a couple of kids.

我又有五年没见到她，在此期间她结了婚并生了几个孩子。

for the present time, until something happens

The power supply should be back soon – for the meantime we’ll have to use candles.

应该很快就会恢复供电——我们暂时只好点蜡烛了。


meanwhile

Cook the sauce over a medium heat until it thickens. Meanwhile start boiling the water for the pasta.

用中火把调味汁煮到变稠，同时烧水准备煮意大利面。

in the period of time between two events

The flight will be announced soon. Meanwhile, please remain seated.

很快就要广播通知登机，在此期间请继续留在座位上。

I knew I wouldn’t get my exam results for several weeks, and I wasn’t sure what to do in the meanwhile.

我知道我要几星期后才能拿到考试成绩，我不知道这期间该做什么。

used to compare two things, especially if they are completely different and are happening at the same time

在这期间，与此同时〔尤用以比较同时发生的两件完全相反的事〕

The incomes of male professionals went up by almost 80%. Meanwhile, part-time women workers saw their earnings fall.

男性专业人员的收入增加了将近80%，与此同时，女性兼职人员的收入却有所下降。


measure

measure against
measure off
measure out
measure up

to find the size, length, or amount of something, using standard units such as inches, metres etc

The rainfall was measured over a three-month period.

对三个月内的降雨量进行了测量。

measure sb for sth (=measure someone in order to make clothes for them)

She was being measured for her wedding dress.

正在给她量尺寸做结婚礼服。

We can measure the energy that food provides in calories.

我们可以用卡路里为单位来测定食物提供的能量。

[measuring jug/cup/tape](bold)(=one used for measuring)

to judge the importance, value, or true nature of something

估量，衡量〔某事物的重要性、价值或真正性质〕

Doctors say it is too early to measure the effectiveness of the drug.

医生认为现在衡量这种药物的效果还太早。

Education shouldn’t be measured purely by examination results.

教育不应该纯粹用考试成绩来衡量。

to be a particular size, length, or amount

〔某事物的〕体积[长度，数额]为 …

这房间的面积为6米×6米。

The earthquake measured 6.5 on the Richter scale.

这次地震为里氏6.5级。

if a piece of equipment measures something, it shows or records a particular kind of measurement

An odometer measures the number of miles your car travels.

汽车里程表显示汽车行驶的英里数。


measure

→ [made-to-measure](->made-to-measure) [give sb short measure](bold) at → [short](->short) 1 sense 23

(=do something in order to deal with a problem)

We are taking measures to improve the situation.

(=start using a particular way of dealing with a problem)

The countries agreed to adopt measures to reduce pollution.

The measures were aimed at reducing the speed of cars on the roads.

New safety measures were implemented after the rail crash.

(=something done to keep a place safe from danger or crime)

Video surveillance cameras have been installed as a security measure.

(=something done to prevent something bad)

Vaccination against disease is a sensible preventative measure.

The public would not be in favour of such an extreme measure.

Drastic measures are needed if we are to combat global warming.

(=something done for a limited period of time to deal with a problem)

The tents were used as a temporary measure to replace homes destroyed in the floods.

The army will take all necessary measures to protect the public.

(=a measure that is suitable for a particular situation)

In the event of an assault, staff will need to take appropriate measures to defend themselves.

(=a set of measures used to deal with something)

A package of road safety measures has been announced.

an action, especially an official one, that is intended to deal with a particular problem

[Measures](bold) are being [taken](bold) to reduce crime in the city.

正在采取措施来降低该市的犯罪率。

drastic measures to reduce traffic problems

New [safety measures](bold) were being demanded after last night’s horrific train crash.

昨晚发生严重的火车相撞事故后，民众要求制定新的安全措施。

The new bridge was erected as a [temporary measure](bold) to replace the one which was destroyed by floods.

建这座新桥是为了临时代替被洪水毁坏的那座桥。

[precautionary/preventative measure](bold)(=something done to stop something bad from happening)

He was kept in hospital overnight as a precautionary measure.

things done to deal with a difficult situation that are not effective or firm enough

〔处理困难情况时〕不彻底的办法，不痛不痒的办法

This was no time for half measures and compromises.

这时候容不得敷衍和妥协。

be a sign of the importance, strength etc of something, or a way of testing or judging something

是 …的体现；是 …的评判标准

The flowers and tears at the funeral were a measure of the people’s love for her.

葬礼上的鲜花和泪水体现了人们对她的爱。

Exam results are not necessarily [a true measure of](bold) a student’s abilities.

考试成绩不一定就能真实说明一个学生的能力。

an amount of something good or something that you want, for example success or freedom

The new law gives local governments a significant measure of control over their own finances.

新法规赋予地方政府相当大的财政自主权。

I met a number of sportsmen who had achieved a measure of success (=some success).

我结识了一些颇有成就的运动员。

a lot or quite a lot – used when talking about the reason or cause of something

在很大/某种程度上〔用于谈论原因或事由〕

The improvements [are due in large measure to](bold) his leadership.

这些进步在很大程度上要归功于他的领导。

used when the amount of one thing is the same as the amount of another thing

I was angry and embarrassed in equal measure.

in addition to what you have already done, given, or included

〔在已做好或已给出的某事物之外〕再增加，外加

Why don’t you try phoning them one more time, for good measure?

你为什么不另外再打个电话给他们试试呢？

very much or very great – used when you want to emphasize what you are saying

Her work has [improved beyond measure](bold).

Ralph received the full measure of his mother’s devotion.

拉尔夫得到了他母亲全部的关爱。

if someone gives something back in full measure, they give back as much as they received

They returned our hospitality in full measure.

他们以同样的热情款待回报了我们。

to become familiar with something, so that you can control or deal with it

熟悉某事物〔以便控制或处理〕

to know what someone’s strengths and weaknesses are, so that you are able to deal with them or defeat them

摸清某人的底细，掂出某人的分量〔以便对付或将其打败〕

She soon got the measure of her opponent.

她很快就掂出了对手的分量。

something used for measuring, for example a piece of wood or a container

a group of notes and rests, separated from other groups by vertical lines, into which a piece of music is divided


measurement

Scientists take daily measurements to find out if the ocean temperature is increasing.

You get a more accurate measurement holding the tape this way.

(=measure someone for a piece of clothing)

She was having her measurements taken for her wedding dress.

When making curtains, you need accurate measurements of the window.

It's about 10 metres by 8 metres - I don't know the exact measurements.

This special equipment allows us to make very precise measurements.

(=an accurate measurement – used when you are emphasizing the process of measuring)

Careful measurements of the human skull were taken and recorded.

(=one made by measuring the thing itself, not a photograph of it)

Instruments in space allowed a direct measurement of Jupiter’s temperature.

(=one that is not influenced by your opinions or feelings)

The test provides an objective measurement of the student’s listening skills.

Take measurements of the room before you buy any new furniture.

买新家具之前要先量好房间的尺寸。

[take sb’s measurements](bold)(=measure someone in order to make or get clothes for them)

The assistant took my measurements and showed me what was available in my size.

售货员给我量了尺寸，然后给我看尺寸适合我的衣服。

[accurate measurement](bold) of body temperature


meat

How will I know when the meat is cooked?

Eating undercooked meat can make you very ill.

Try to eat more lean meat, fish and chicken.

People are being urged to eat less fatty meat.

For health reasons, you should eat less red meat.

(=a light-coloured meat such as chicken)

(=a large piece of meat, sometimes containing a bone)

(=a joint of meat taken from a particular part of an animal)

(=a thin piece of meat cut from a larger piece)

He helped himself to another slice of meat.

the flesh of animals and birds eaten as food

我几个月以前开始不吃肉了。

[red meat](bold)(=a dark-coloured meat, for example )

[white meat](bold)(=meat that is pale in colour, for example )

something interesting or important in a talk, book, film etc

〔谈话、书籍、电影等中〕有趣[重要]的内容

There’s [no meat to](bold) their arguments.

他们的论据里没有实质性的内容。

We then got down to [the](bold) real [meat of](bold) the debate (=the main and most interesting part of it).

我们接下来进入了辩论的最精彩部分。

used to say that someone looks very thin

used to say that something that one person likes may not be liked by someone else

甲之熊掌，乙之砒霜；一个人喜欢的另一个人未必喜欢

if someone is easy meat, they are easy to defeat, deceive, or hurt

是易被击败的人；是易上当受骗的人；是易受伤害的人

San Marino should be easy meat for England in next week’s match.

下周的比赛圣马力诺队对于英格兰队应该是小菜一碟。

the most important or basic parts of a discussion, decision, piece of work etc

〔讨论、决定、工作等中〕最重要[最基本]的部分

Let’s get down to the meat and potatoes. How much are you going to pay me for this?

我们来谈最关键的问题: 你打算为此付我多少钱？

to be something that someone enjoys doing or finds very easy to do because they have done it many times before

The first five questions in the quiz were about football, which was meat and drink to Brian.

知识竞赛的前五个问题是足球方面的，这是布赖恩最拿手的了。


mechanic

someone who is skilled at repairing motor vehicles and machinery

the way in which something works or is done

（做）某事的方法[技巧]

The mechanics of the process are quite complex.

the science that deals with the effects of forces on objects

→ [quantum mechanics](->quantum mechanics)


mechanical

[mechanically](bold) /-kli/  adv. eg: The actors spoke their lines mechanically, hardly caring about the meaning. eg: I’m not very mechanically minded (=not good at understanding how machines work and repairing them).

The flight has been cancelled due to [mechanical failure](bold).

因机械故障航班被取消了。

The plane had to make an emergency landing because of mechanical problems.

飞机因机械故障不得不紧急降落。

using power from an engine or machine to do a particular kind of work

a mechanical action, reply etc is one you do without thinking, and has been done many times before

〔动作、回答等〕机械的，不加思考的

He was asked the same question so many times that the answer became mechanical.

同样的问题被问过太多次了，他的回答都变得机械起来。

someone who is mechanical understands how machines work

relating to or produced by physical forces


mechanism

part of a machine or a set of parts that does a particular job

机械装置，机件，工作部件

a system that is intended to achieve something or deal with a problem

The Army has set up mechanisms to help jobless ex-soldiers get work.

军队建立了帮助无工作的退伍军人找到工作的机制。

→ [exchange rate mechanism](->exchange rate mechanism)

a system or a way of behaving that helps a living thing to avoid or protect itself from something difficult or dangerous

〔生物用来自我保护、躲避危险的〕机制，行为方式

When a person is ill, the body’s natural defence mechanisms come into operation.

生病时，人体内的自然防御机制就会开始工作。


medal

[deserve a medal](bold) at → [deserve](->deserve) sense 3

They won a medal at the Chelsea Flower Show.

German runner Stephan Freigang took the bronze medal.

She received a medal from the Society of Arts.

He was given a medal for his courageous actions.

The book was awarded the Carnegie Medal.

He won the gold medal in Athens in 2004.

She was awarded the silver medal for the 100 metres.

Morrell took the bronze medal in  the long jump.

Johnson was a silver medal winner at the Olympic Games.

a flat piece of metal, usually shaped like a coin, that is given to someone who has won a competition or who has done something brave

She won a gold medal at the last Olympics.

她在上届奥运会上赢得一枚金牌。

The two boys were awarded medals for bravery.

这两个男孩因勇敢而获得勋章。


medal

[past tense and past participle](italic) [medalled](bold) [present participle](italic) [medalling](bold) ([BrE](bold)) [past tense and past participle](italic) [medaled](bold) [present participle](italic) [medaling](bold) ([AmE](bold))

to win a medal at a competition, especially at the Olympic Games

〔尤指在奥运会上〕赢得奖牌

Germany has the potential to medal in gymnastics this year.

今年德国有可能在体操项目上获得奖牌。


media

The case received enormous publicity in the national media.

Does the news media have a role in forming public opinion?

(=television, newspapers etc, which are seen by many people)

The mass media has helped to call attention to environmental issues.

(=television, newspapers etc, that most people are able to see or read)

Few of these events were reported in the mainstream media.

The tragedy received worldwide media attention.

(=when something is deliberately reported or advertised in the media a lot)

a media campaign aimed at reducing drunk driving

(=when something is deliberately reported or advertised in the media a lot, in a small amount of time)

The candidate’s media blitz has certainly raised his profile in the election.

(=when the media give something too much attention and try to make it seem more important or better than it really is)

the media hype surrounding the match against France

(=a disapproving phrase for all the people from the media who report events, and all the attention they give to these events)

There is likely to be a media circus outside the courtroom.

all the organizations, such as television, radio, and newspapers, that provide news and information for the public, or the people who do this work

新闻媒体，传媒，大众传播媒介〔总称〕

The scandal was widely reported in [the national media](bold).

这一丑闻在全国媒体上被广泛报道。

The role of [the news media](bold) in forming public opinion is very important.

新闻媒体对于社会舆论的形成具有非常重要的作用。

The 11-day trial generated intense [media interest](bold).

11天的审讯引起了媒体的高度关注。

A great deal of [media hype](bold) surrounded the release of the group’s latest CD.

媒体对这个组合最新唱片的发行进行了大肆炒作。

There will be another war somewhere else and the whole international [media circus](bold) will move on.

别的地方还会有战争，全球的媒体又会一窝蜂地拥过去。

[The media](bold)  can be followed by a singular or a plural verb: The media [is ](bold) controlled by the government. The media [are](bold) controlled by the government.

→ [mass media](->mass media) → [multimedia](->multimedia)


mediate

to try to end a quarrel between two people, groups, countries etc

UN officials mediated between the rebel fighters and the government.

联合国官员在叛军和政府之间进行了调解。

The former president has agreed to mediate the peace talks.

前总统同意就和谈进行斡旋。

The court was set up to [mediate](bold) in civil [disputes](bold).

这种法庭是为调解民事纠纷而设立的。

to change the effect or influence of something, especially to make the effect less bad

Exercise may mediate the effects of a bad diet.

运动可以减轻不良饮食造成的影响。


medical

[medically](bold) /-kli/  adv. eg: medically qualified personnel eg: medically fit

relating to medicine and the treatment of disease or injury

a patient’s [medical history](bold)(=the illnesses they have had)

[medical records](bold)(=which show what illnesses and treatment someone has had)

The injury required urgent medical attention.

[the medical profession](bold)(=doctors, nurses, and other people who treat people who are ill)


medical

also: #medical exami=nation  [n](bold) <[C](bold)> ([BrE](special))

an examination of your body by a doctor to see if you are healthy


medication

ˌmedɪˈkeɪʃən

ˌmedɪˈkeɪʃən

He's on medication for his blood pressure.

(=arrange for someone to take a particular type of medicine)

Doctors should always explain the reasons for prescribing any medication.

Teachers are not allowed to administer medication.

The leaflet tells you how to use the medication correctly.

I stopped the medication when I found out I was pregnant.

Coming off the medication made him more aggressive.

(=one that you can buy without a doctor's order)

There are many over-the-counter medications available for headaches.

(=one for which you need a doctor's order)

What happens if the patient does not take their prescribed medication?

He is on regular medication to prevent fits.

medicine or drugs given to people who are ill

He’s on medication for high blood pressure.

他正在服用治疗高血压的药。


medicine

Certain medicines should not be taken with alcohol.

a small piece of medicine that you swallow

She managed to swallow the pill with a sip of water.

The doctor put him on a course of antibiotics.

The tablets contain codeine, which is unsuitable for people with asthma.

a small tube-shaped container with medicine inside that you swallow whole

I advised her to take four to six garlic capsules a day for the duration of the treatment.

a small smooth pill that is slightly longer than it is wide – used especially on bottles and containers

In small type, the consumer is warned not to take more than one caplet per day.

liquid medicine that you put into your eye or ear

Remember — if you’re using eye drops for your hay fever, leave your contact lenses out.

a thick smooth substance containing medicine, that you put on your skin

a medicine or a substance for making medicines

There are a wide range of different drugs on the market.

the amount of medicine that you should take at one time

medicine or drugs given to someone who is ill

She’s on medication taking medication, having suffered from depression for a number of years.

Thanks to modern medicine, these babies will survive.

Some sufferers reject conventional medicine.

(=conventional medicine as developed in Western countries)

the scientific basis of Western medicine

(=medical treatments that were used before modern medicine)

The plant was used in traditional medicine for the treatment of stomach problems.

(=medical treatments that are not part of modern medicine)

Various types of alternative medicine, particularly acupuncture, can give pain relief.

In ancient China, herbal medicine was often used with acupuncture.

(=medical treatment of a whole person, not just a particular illness)

One principle of holistic medicine is that each person is unique.

(=medical treatments that were used by ordinary people, especially in the past)

Researchers are looking at plants that are commonly used in folk medicine.

(=medical treatments that are traditional in China, for example using herbs and acupuncture)

Acupuncture is part of traditional Chinese medicine.

(=medical study relating to specific groups or types of illness)

Advances have been made in veterinary medicine, so that our pets are living longer, healthier lives.

a substance used for treating illness, especially a liquid you drink

药，药物〔尤指口服的药水〕

Medicines should be kept out of the reach of children.

药应放在孩子够不到的地方。

Have you been [taking](bold) your [medicine](bold)?

[medicine chest/cabinet](bold)(=for keeping medicine in)

→ Do not say that you ‘drink medicine’. Say that you [take medicine](bold).

the treatment and study of illnesses and injuries

She studied medicine at Johns Hopkins University.

她曾在约翰•霍普金斯大学学医。

the remarkable achievements of modern medicine

the best way of making you feel better when you are sad

最好的药〔指忧伤时使你心情变好的最佳办法〕

give sb a dose/taste of their own medicine

to treat someone as badly as they have treated you

to accept an unpleasant situation or a punishment that you deserve, without complaining

（像男子汉那样）认罚，喝下自酿的苦酒


medieval

connected with the Middle Ages the period between about 1100 and 1500 AD

These spices were first brought to Italy from the East in medieval times.

这些香料最早是在中世纪时从东方被带到了意大利。

very old or old-fashioned – used in a humorous or disapproving way

古老的，旧式的，过时的〔幽默用法或含贬义〕

The plumbing in this house is positively medieval!

这座房子里的水管实在太陈旧了！


meditation

ˌmedɪˈteɪʃən

ˌmedɪˈteɪʃən

the practice of emptying your mind of thoughts and feelings, in order to relax completely or for religious reasons

Yoga involves breathing exercises, stretching, and meditation.

瑜伽包括呼吸训练、伸展和冥想。

→ [transcendental meditation](->transcendental meditation)

the act of thinking deeply and seriously about something

She found him sitting alone, deep in meditation.

她发现他独自坐着，陷入沉思。

Rob interrupted his father’s meditations.

罗布打断了他父亲的沉思。

serious thoughts about a particular subject

〔关于某主题的〕感想，沉思


medium

〔大小、水平或数量〕中等的；中号的

What size shirt does he wear – small, medium or large?

他穿多大尺码的衬衫——小号、中号还是大号？

Fry the onions over a [medium heat](bold) until they are golden.

用中火把洋葱炸到金黄色。

→ Use [average](bold), not ‘medium’, when you want to say that someone’s level of skill or ability is neither high nor low[students of average ability (NOT students of medium ability)](italic)

meat that is medium or medium rare is partly cooked but still slightly pink inside

medium dry wine is slightly sweeter than dry wine

a colour which is neither light nor dark


medium

→ [magnetic media](->magnetic media) [a happy medium](bold) at → [happy](->happy) sense 8

[plural](italic) media /-diə/ or [plural](italic) mediums

a way of communicating information and news to people, such as newspapers, television etc

传播媒介〔如报纸、电视等〕

广告是具有强大影响力的传播媒介。

a way of expressing your ideas, especially as a writer or an artist

〔尤指作家或艺术家表达思想的〕方法，手段；艺术形式

English is still the main medium of instruction in Nigeria.

在尼日利亚英语仍然是主要的教学媒介语言。

money or other ways of paying for things

交换媒介，交易媒介〔指钱或其他的支付方法〕

a substance or material in which things grow or exist

a good [growing medium](bold) for tomatoes

a substance through which a force travels


medium

someone who claims to have the power to receive messages from dead people


meet

[make ends meet](bold) at → [end](->end) 1 sense 17

[Meet](bold)  is a reciprocal verb. This type of verb is used when saying that two or more people do something that involves both or all of them. It does not need to have an object: We met when we were at college. In this sentence, [meet](bold)  is intransitive and does not have an object.

You can also say: We met each other when we were at college. I met him when we were at college.  In these sentences, [meet](bold)  is transitive.

to be in the same place as someone else because you have arranged to see them

The two leaders are scheduled to meet again next month.

to meet with a group of people, in order to do something together

Why don’t we all get together and go out for a drink?

Have the students get together in groups of four to work on the problem.

if people come together, they meet in order to discuss things, exchange ideas etc

Goldman persuaded the heads of the groups to come together for an informal conference.

if friends meet up, they meet in order to do something together

Why don’t I meet up with you after lunch?

if people gather somewhere, they come together in the same place in order to do something or see something

Fans have started to gather outside the stadium.

Angry crowds gathered in front of the US embassy.

if people assemble somewhere, they all come and stand together in the same place, especially as part of an officially arranged plan

If the fire alarm rings, please assemble in the parking lot.

The students began to assemble in the main hall.

[past tense and past participle](italic) [met](bold) /met/

to go to a place where someone will be at a particular time, according to an arrangement, so that you can talk or do something together

〔事先约好在某处〕会面，（与 …）碰头

I’ll meet you by the main reception desk.

我们何不星期五一块吃午饭？

We arranged to meet outside the theatre.

我们说好在剧院外面碰头。

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

to see someone by chance and talk to them

你绝对猜不出我在镇上碰到谁了。

I was worried I might meet Henry on the bus.

我担心可能会在公共汽车上遇到亨利。

to see and talk to someone for the first time, or be introduced to them

我们是在佛罗伦萨初识的。

我在大学里认识了我丈夫。

[nice/pleased to meet you](bold)(=used to greet someone politely when you have just met them for the first time)

‘This is my niece, Sarah.’ ‘Pleased to meet you.’

“这是萨拉，我的外甥女。”“很高兴认识你。”

[(it was) nice meeting you](bold)(=used to say goodbye politely to someone you have just met for the first time)

to be waiting for someone at an airport, station etc when they arrive in a plane or train

She got off the plane to be met by reporters.

她下飞机后发现有记者在等候。

to come together in the same place in order to discuss something

The two groups will meet next week to discuss the project.

两个小组将在下星期开会讨论这个项目。

to play against another person or team in a competition, or to fight another army in a war

〔在比赛中〕（与 …）交锋；〔在战争中〕（与 …）交战；迎战

Manchester United will meet Blackburn Rovers in the sixth round of the Cup.

曼联队将在杯赛的第六轮迎战布莱克本流浪者队。

The two armies finally met on the battlefield at Stamford Bridge.

两军最后在斯坦福德布里奇遭遇。

if two things meet, they touch or join at a particular place

（在 …）相接；（在 …）相交，交汇，会合

The two roads meet just north of Flagstaff.

这两条路就在弗拉格斯塔夫以北不远处会合。

我的手和他的手在桌子下面碰在了一起。

to experience a problem, attitude, or situation

Wherever she went she met hostility and prejudice.

无论到哪儿，她总是遭遇敌视和偏见。

to deal with a problem or something difficult that you have to do

The new building will mean that we can meet the challenge of increasing student numbers.

新大楼的建成意味着我们可以应付学生数量不断增加的问题了。

meet a need/demand/requirement/condition etc

to do something that someone wants, needs, or expects you to do or be as good as they need, expect etc

满足需求/需要/要求/条件等

The company says it is unable to meet the workers’ demands for higher wages.

公司称无法满足工人加薪的要求。

The service is tailored to meet your needs.

此项服务应您的需求量身定制。

beaches which [meet](bold) European [standards](bold) of cleanliness

to finish something at the time it is meant to be finished

We are still hoping to meet the November deadline.

我们仍希望11月如期完工。

to achieve something that you are trying to achieve

It’s impossible to meet the sales targets.

要达到这个销售指标是不可能的。

The scheme does not [meet](bold) its [objectives](bold).

偿付债务/支付费用/支付开销等

The government has promised to meet the cost of clearing up after the floods.

政府承诺会为水灾后的清理工作买单。

there’s more to sb/sth than meets the eye

used to say that someone or something is more interesting, intelligent etc than they seem to be

某人/某物比表面所看到的更为有趣[聪明等]

if two people’s eyes meet, they look at each other

Our eyes met momentarily, then he looked away.

我们的目光短暂相遇后，他又看向了别处。

他的目光和尼娜的相遇，尼娜笑了。

to look directly at someone who is looking at you

Ruth looked down, unable to meet his eye.

露丝低下头，无法迎视他的眼睛。

她转过头来迎着他的注视。

if something meets your eyes, you see it

An extraordinary scene met our eyes as we entered the room.

我们进屋时看到了非同寻常的一幕。

to compete against an opponent who is stronger or more skilful than you are

I think he might have met his match in Simon.

我认为他遇到西蒙是棋逢对手了。

to do some of the things that someone wants, in order to reach an agreement with them

if two moving vehicles meet head-on, they are facing each other and hit each other suddenly and violently

if you meet a problem head-on, you deal with it directly without trying to avoid it

He met his death at the hands of enemy soldiers.

to finally be defeated after you have been successful for a long time

〔长时间成功后〕最终惨遭失败，遭遇滑铁卢


meet

a sports competition between people running races, jumping over bars etc

an occasion when a group of people riding horses go out to hunt foxes


meeting

an occasion when people meet in order to discuss something

The committee will hold another meeting Wednesday.

an organized event, especially one that continues for several days, at which a lot of people meet to discuss a particular subject and hear speeches about it

Didn’t you give a talk at the conference last year?

a large formal meeting of people who belong to a political party, or to an organization of people with the same interests

a large public meeting, especially one that is held outdoors to support or protest about something

There was a massive peace rally in London.

a meeting between government leaders from important and powerful countries, to discuss important matters

A summit meeting of OPEC leaders was called to find a solution to the oil crisis.

a local meeting of the members of a political party to choose people to represent them at a larger meeting, or to choose a candidate in an election

a business meeting in which people in different places talk to each other using telephones or video equipment

The chairman held teleconferences with his senior managers.

a situation in which a group of people come together to meet, talk, and have drinks with each other, especially friends or family

We held a small family get-together to celebrate her birthday.

She arranged social gatherings in Kettering for young people on Saturday evenings.

an arrangement to meet someone who you are having, or hoping to have, a romantic relationship with

a meeting where two people have arranged to meet at a particular time or place, often secretly

She arranged a rendezvous with him in the hotel bar.

a secret meeting between people who are having a romantic relationship

The meetings are usually held on a Friday.

All staff members are expected to attend the meeting.

The board has the power to convene a general meeting if necessary.

The meeting was chaired by Professor Jones of the University of York.

There was disagreement about opening the meeting with a prayer.

He closed the meeting by saying, ‘I think we have made great progress.’

A member of Greenpeace addressed the protest meeting.

This meeting is adjourned until tomorrow.

(=an important meeting held once a year)

the annual meeting of the British Medical Association

a routine weekly meeting with the managing director

A public meeting was held to discuss the proposal to build a new school.

(=that anyone, or anyone in a particular organization, can go to)

The annual general meeting of the rugby club was held last night.

(=that only a few people are allowed to go to)

The senator attended a private meeting with the president.

The prime minister is in Paris for a European summit meeting.

He had to go into town for a business meeting.

Anti-road campaigners are holding a protest meeting today.

The Council has called an emergency meeting to decide what action to take.

an event at which people meet to discuss and decide things

We’re having a meeting next week to discuss the matter.

我们下周将开会讨论此事。

I’ll raise the matter at the next meeting.

我会在下次会上提出这个问题。

She said that Mr Coleby was in a meeting.

她说科尔比先生正在开会。

There was a public meeting about the future of the gallery.

召开了一个公开会议讨论美术馆的未来。

I’ve got a meeting with Mr Edwards this afternoon.

今天下午我和爱德华兹先生有个会要开。

所有参加会议的人，全体与会者

I’d like to put a few ideas before the meeting.

我想向与会者提出几点想法。

when people meet each other by chance or because they have arranged to do this

I had felt drawn to Alice ever since our first meeting.

我第一次见到艾丽斯就感觉被她吸引住了。

a sports competition or a set of races for horses

a situation in which two people have very similar ideas and understand each other very well

彼此意见一致；彼此非常理解

There was a real meeting of minds between the two leaders.

两位领导人之间有一种真正的默契。

an event at which a group of Quakers a Christian religious group pray together

〔基督教贵格会教徒的〕宗教聚会，祈祷会


megabyte

[n](bold) <[C](bold)> written abbreviation: MB or: Mb

a unit for measuring computer information, equal to 1,024kilobytes, and used less exactly to mean one million bytes

兆字节，百万字节〔计算机信息存储单位〕


melody

It’s hard to find rules about what makes a good melody.

With their catchy melodies, the songs are likely to be hits.

(=used about a beautiful melody, especially one that is rather sad and which you remember for a long time)

He began to play a soulful, haunting melody.

The song's plaintive melody expresses perfectly the feeling of loneliness that she feels after her lover has gone.

Lennon’s voice enters with a gently lilting melody.

The album’s perfect pop melodies make it probably the best record this year.

At this point, the flute begins to play the melody.

She sang the melodies as though she loved them.

(=play or sing the melody, while other voices or instruments play other notes)

(=the melody, compared to the other parts of the music)

The melody line is often set too high for people singing in church.

他们演奏了一些动听的曲子。

the arrangement of musical notes in a way that is pleasant


melon

a large round fruit with sweet juicy flesh


melt

[butter wouldn’t melt in sb’s mouth](bold) at → [butter](->butter) 1 sense 2

if something solid melts or if heat melts it, it becomes liquid

It was warmer now, and the snow was beginning to melt.

现在天气暖和了，雪开始融化。

把黄油放在深平底锅里化开。

Opposition to the government melted away.

to become less angry and begin to feel more gentle and sympathetic

态度软下来，变得温和体贴

在他的注视下她的态度缓和了。

My [heart](bold) just [melted](bold) when I saw her crying.

if food melts in your mouth, it is soft and tastes very nice

〔食物〕入口即化，松软可口

to allow someone to hold you in their arms and feel that you love them

Closing her eyes, she melted into his embrace.

她闭上眼睛，投入了他的怀抱。


member

Germany became a member of N.A.T.O. in 1954.

Close friendships developed between crew members on the ship.

a discussion between leading members of the profession

A senior member of the government has resigned.

(=one who takes part in many activities of an organization)

He was a founder member of the African National Congress.

He became a staff member of the Institute in 2002.

(=one who has all the possible rights of a member)

At that time, women were not allowed to be full members of the club.

(=one who has fewer rights than a full member)

Turkey is an associate member of the European Union.

(=an official member of an organization)

She was a card-carrying member of the Communist Party.

(=one who has paid to be a member for their whole life)

a life member of the Royal Academy of Artists

(=one who has been given membership as an honour)

He was made an honorary member of the Botanical Society.

All members of staff attend regular training sessions.

Members of the public were invited to put forward suggestions.

We want our children to become productive members of society.

(=a country that belongs to an international organization)

a person or country that belongs to a group or organization

The majority of union members voted in favour of a strike.

大多数工会成员投票赞成罢工。

You can also invite members of your family.

He is a member of the local tennis club.

他是本地网球俱乐部的会员。

In everyday English, people usually say there are 3/4/5 etc [people](bold)  in their family rather than saying that their family has 3/4/5 etc [members](bold) :

[My family has [eight members](bold).](strike)

There are [eight people in my family](bold).

one of a particular group of animals or plants

〔某一群动植物中的〕一员

The plant is a [member of](bold) the lily [family](bold).

Wolves and domestic dogs are [members of](bold) the same [species](bold).


membership

To apply for membership, simply return the attached form.

(=become a member again for another period of time)

Please renew your membership by January 15.

His membership was terminated for ‘unprofessional conduct’.

Montenegro was granted membership of the UN in 2006.

She was refused membership of the club because she was a woman.

We will send you a letter when your membership is about to expire.

How much do you pay for your gym membership?

(=with all the rights that are allowed to members)

Poland was eager to gain full membership in the European Union.

(=with only some of the rights allowed to members)

In the early 1990s, the Soviet Union was offered associate membership of the International Monetary Fund.

(=having been given membership as an honor)

His work won him honorary membership of the London Medical Society.

You will need a valid membership card to enter the Sports Centre.

(=money you must pay to become a member)

The current annual membership fee is £20.

when someone is a member of a club, group, or organization

Greece first [applied for membership](bold) of the EU in 1975.

1975年，希腊首次申请加入欧盟。

I forgot to [renew](bold) my [membership](bold) in the sailing club.

我忘了去续办一下自己的航海俱乐部会员资格。

You should carry your [membership card](bold) with you at all times.

[Membership fees](bold) are being increased this year.

all the members of a club, group, or organization

The membership voted to change the rules about women members.

全体会员投票决定修改有关女性会员的章程。

In this meaning, [membership](bold)  is usually followed by a singular verb: The membership [supports](bold) the club’s decision.

In British English, you can also use a plural verb: The membership [support](bold) the club’s decision.

the number of people who belong to a club, group, or organization

We’re trying to increase our membership.

我们正在设法增加会员人数。

该俱乐部有200名会员。


memoir

a book by someone important and famous in which they write about their life and experiences

Lady Thatcher had just published her memoirs.

撒切尔夫人刚刚出版了她的回忆录。

a short piece of writing about a person or place that you knew well, or an event that you experienced


memorable

very good, enjoyable, or unusual, and worth remembering

We want to make this a truly memorable day for the children.

我们想让今天成为孩子们永远难忘的日子。


memorial

something, especially a stone with writing on it, that reminds people of someone who has died

The hospital was built as a memorial to King Edward VII.

该医院是为了纪念国王爱德华七世而建的。

An appeal has been launched to build a lasting memorial to the composer.

已经发出呼吁为这位作曲家建一座永久纪念碑。

an achievement that reminds people of someone who has died

〔使人想起死者成就的〕纪念物，纪念

The garden is a memorial to one of the finest Victorian gardeners.

这座花园是对维多利亚时期一位最优秀的园艺家的纪念。


memorial

done or made in order to remind people of someone who has died

〔对逝者〕纪念的，追悼的

A memorial service will be held at 7 pm on Saturday.

周六晚上七时将举行追悼仪式。


memorize

BrE also: memorise  [v](bold) <[T](bold)>

to learn words, music etc so that you know them perfectly

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


memory

A student with a poor memory may struggle in school.

(=your ability to remember things that you have just seen, heard, or done)

The drug can damage your short-term memory.

(=your ability to remember things that happened a long time ago)

Most people's long-term memory is limited.

(=your ability to remember things you have seen)

Poor spellers often have a weak visual memory.

(=the ability to remember every detail of things that you have seen)

Unless you have a photographic memory, you forget half of what you read as soon as you close the book.

That day will remain in my memory forever.

Perhaps this photograph will refresh your memory?

(=become unable to remember things that happened in the past)

The blow on the head caused him to lose his memory.

I've already committed his name to memory.

(=if you have a short memory, you soon forget things)

(=if you have a long memory, you remember things for a long time)

He has a long memory for people who have let him down.

I'm sorry, I have a memory like a sieve. I forgot you were coming today!

The condition can cause dizziness and memory loss.

(=when you cannot remember something for a short time)

The alcohol seemed to make him suffer lapses of memory.

if my memory serves (me correctly/right)

(=used to say that you are almost certain you have remembered something correctly)

If my memory serves me correctly, Johnson was also there.

He left school with good memories of his time there.

Many people have unhappy memories of being forced to play team sports.

She had fond memories of her aunt and uncle.

He sobbed as he relived the painful memory.

I have a clear memory of the first time I met David.

He had only dim memories of his father, who had died when he was four.

I have a vague memory of visiting them when I was small.

Going to the farm brought back happy childhood memories.

My earliest memory is of being bitten by a dog.

The children's abiding memory of their father is of his patience and gentleness.

(=talk about past events so you remember them again)

Seeing her again was an excuse to relive old memories.

For many older people, the film brought back memories of the war.

Evelyn hugged her daughter, as memories came flooding back to her.

Write down how you felt before the memory fades.

(=makes you remember things that happened there)

My old home is full of unhappy memories.

(=be unable to forget something unhappy)

He is haunted by memories of his unhappy childhood.

She shuddered at the memory of her parents fighting.

someone’s ability to remember things, places, experiences etc

The pianist played the whole piece from memory.

这位钢琴师凭记忆演奏了整首乐曲。

The image has remained in my memory ever since.

这个形象从此就一直留在了我的记忆里。

something that you remember from the past about a person, place, or experience

She talked about her memories of the war.

He has lots of happy memories of his stay in Japan.

When I saw the pictures,[ the memories came flooding back](bold)(=I suddenly had many memories about something).

我见到那些照片时，记忆如潮水般涌来。

the part of a computer where information can be stored

The data is stored in the computer’s memory.

数据储存在电脑的存储器里。

the amount of space that can be used for storing information on a computer

〔计算机存储器的〕存储量

Personal computers now have much increased memory capacity.

现在个人电脑的存储量大大增加了。

during the time that people can remember

the worst floods [in living memory](bold)(=since the earliest time that people now alive can remember)

在世的人们记忆中最凶猛的洪水

It’s certainly the best England team [in recent memory](bold).

在人们最近的记忆里这绝对是最好的英格兰队。

The disaster was [within the memory of](bold) many men still working at the station.

这场灾难仍然留在许多还在站上工作的人的记忆里。

if something is done or made in memory of someone, it is done to remember them and remind other people of them after they have died

a statue in memory of those who died in the war

为了纪念那些在战争中死去的人们而建立的雕像

She set up a charitable fund in her father’s memory.

她设立了一项慈善基金以纪念她的父亲。

the way you remember someone who has died

She died over 40 years ago but her [memory lives on](bold)(=people still remember her).

她40多年前就去世了，但仍然活在人们心里。

There’s a bench to his memory in the local park.

当地公园里有条纪念他的长凳。

when you spend some time remembering the past

She returned to her old school yesterday for a trip down memory lane.

她昨天回到母校故地重游。

used to say that someone is remembering things wrongly

某人的记性在和他开玩笑，某人的记忆不准确

My memory must be playing tricks on me; I’m sure I put that book on the desk.

肯定是我的记忆出了问题，我明明记得把那本书放在书桌上的。


menace

It’s the only way to deal with the menace of drug dealing.

对付毒品交易的威胁，这是唯一的方法。

That man’s a [menace to society](bold). He should be locked away.

那个男人对社会有威胁，应该把他关进监狱。

the [growing menace](bold) of oil pollution at sea

a threatening quality, feeling, or way of behaving

There was a sense of menace as the sky grew darker.

天色渐暗，有一种恐怖的氛围。

a person, especially a child, who is annoying or causes trouble

讨厌鬼，捣蛋鬼〔尤指小孩〕

我的小弟弟真是个捣蛋鬼。

if someone asks another person for something with menaces, they use threats of violence to get what they want

He was charged with [demanding money with menaces](bold).


menace

The elephants are still menaced by poachers.

大象仍然面临非法捕猎者的威胁。


mend

to repair a tear or hole in a piece of clothing

修补，缝补〔布料上的裂口或破洞〕

我父亲过去常为我们修补鞋子。

to repair something that is broken or not working

修理〔破损或有毛病的物件〕

When are you going to mend that light in the hall?

你打算什么时候修一修门厅里的那盏灯？

什么玩具坏了蒂姆都能修。

if a broken bone mends, it becomes whole again

His leg isn’t mending as quickly as he’d expected.

他的腿愈合得不像他预想的那样快。

to improve the way you behave after behaving badly for a long time

If he doesn’t mend his ways, he’ll be asked to leave.

如果他不好好改改，会让他走人的。

to try to become friendly with someone again after you have offended them or argued with them

Is it too late to mend fences with your ex-wife?

现在和你的前妻重修旧好来不及了吗？

to end a quarrel or difficult situation by dealing with the problem that is causing it

结束〔争吵〕，解决〔问题〕

I’ve tried to mend matters between us, but she’s still very angry.

我已经尽力去解决我们之间的问题，但她仍然很生气。


mend

to be getting better after an illness or after a difficult period

〔病后或困难时期过后〕正在好转

他得了流感，但正在恢复。

a place in something where it has been repaired


mental

[mentally](bold) adv. eg: I was exhausted, both physically and mentally.

relating to the health or state of someone’s mind

The centre provides help for people suffering from [mental illness](bold).

该中心对精神病患者提供帮助。

Stress has an effect on both your physical and [mental health](bold).

压力对身体健康和心理健康都有影响。

relating to the mind and thinking, or happening only in the mind

思想的；精神的；思考的；智力的

You need to develop a positive [mental attitude](bold).

[mental picture/image](bold)(=a picture that you form in your mind)

I tried to get a mental picture of him from her description.

我试图根据她的描述想象出他的样子。

to make a special effort to remember something

Sarah made a mental note to ask Janine about it later.

萨拉心里记着一会儿要向雅尼娜问问这事。

a difficulty in remembering something or in understanding something

心理阻隔；记忆阻隔；思维阻隔

I got a complete mental block as soon as the interviewer asked me a question.

面试官刚问了我一个问题，我的脑子就一片空白了。

to start behaving in an uncontrolled or excited way

thinking or behaving in a way that seems crazy or strange

〔思维或行为〕疯癫的，不正常的

特别困惑的；极其忙碌的；非常兴奋的

I had a mental time at the festival – there was all sorts of crazy stuff going on!


mentality

a particular attitude or way of thinking, especially one that you think is wrong or stupid

〔尤指被视为错误或愚蠢的〕心态

I can’t understand the mentality of the people who are behind this kind of violence.

我不能理解这种暴力行为的幕后指使者是什么心态。


mention

to talk or write about something or someone, usually quickly and without saying very much or giving details

Kate had mentioned his name a few times, but I had not met him before.

Jack mentioned that you might be looking for a new job.

to say something about someone or something in a conversation, speech, or piece of writing

He had earlier referred to difficulties in gathering evidence.

It was not clear which case he was referring to.

to briefly mention a subject during a speech, lesson, piece of writing etc

This problem has already been touched on in Chapter 4.

to start to talk about a particular subject during a conversation or meeting

I didn’t want to bring up the subject of money.

to mention a subject that people should start to discuss or think about. [Raise](bold) is more formal than [bring sth up](bold)

He promised to raise the issue with the prime minister.

to mention a subject that may be embarrassing or upsetting, or that may cause an argument

I was reluctant to broach the subject of payment.

to mention something as an example or proof of something else, or as a reason for something

Hong Kong is often cited as an example of this kind of economic system.

to mention something in a way that is deliberately not direct

Many of the ancient Greek poets allude to this myth.

As I mentioned earlier, it will cost a lot of money.

It is worth mentioning again that most accidents happen in the home.

(=mention something without much detail, especially while you were talking about something else)

She mentioned in passing that she had an eight-year-old son.

(=used for saying that you had not thought of something until someone else mentioned it)

I’ve never been to his house either, now that you mention it.

I omitted to mention that I had not been to university.

I must not forget to mention how kind he was to us.

They both avoided mentioning John, though Anne longed to talk about him.

Why does he look angry every time I mention Clare’s name?

(=used when you are only giving a few examples)

She had taken a number of classes, including photography, art, and pottery, to mention but a few.

Some of the problems were mentioned in his report.

其中的一些问题在他的报告里提到了。

I mentioned the idea to Joan, and she seemed to like it.

我向琼说起过这个想法，她似乎很喜欢。

He mentioned that he was having problems, but he didn’t explain.

他提过他碰到了一些问题，但没有细说。

[It’s worth mentioning](bold)(=it is important enough to mention) that they only studied a very small number of cases.

必须说明的是他们仅研究了几个个案。

[As](bold) I [mentioned earlier](bold), there have been a lot of changes recently.

正如我刚才所说的，最近变化很大。

She [mentioned in passing](bold)(=mentioned in a quick unimportant way) that you had just been to Rome.

她只是随口提了一下你刚刚去过罗马。

[now you mention it](bold)(=used to say that you had not thought about something until the speaker mentioned it)

Now you mention it, I haven’t seen her around lately.

你倒是提醒我了，我最近没有见过她。

[fail/omit/neglect to mention sth](bold)(=not mention something you should mention)

The report failed to mention that most of the landowners do not live on their properties.

报告并未提及，大多数地主并不在他们的地产上居住。

[Mention](bold)  is a transitive verb and must be followed by an object.

You say: He mentioned a book he’d read.
Don’t say: [He mentioned about a book.](strike)

You say: She mentioned that she might be late.
Don’t say: [She mentioned about she might be late.](strike)

used to say politely that there is no need for someone to thank you for helping them

‘Thanks for the ride home!’ ‘Don’t mention it.’

“谢谢你捎我回家！”“不用客气。”

used to introduce an additional thing that makes a situation even more difficult, surprising, interesting etc

Pollution has a negative effect on the health of everyone living in the city, not to mention the damage to the environment.

污染对生活在这个城市里的每一个人的健康都有害处，更不用说对环境的破坏了。

It’s too far to walk, [not to mention the fact that](bold) it’ll probably be closed by now anyway.

走着去太远，再说，很可能现在都已经关门了。

to have your name on an official list of people who have been brave in battle, as an honour

〔因作战勇敢而〕受到提名表扬


mention

→ [honourable mention](->honourable mention)

Nelson made no mention of his family; he talked only of his work.

This type of research rarely gets a mention in the media.

The village was large enough to merit a mention in the 11th century Domesday Book.

Dillon makes only a brief mention of the idea in his book.

Mrs. McMillan deserves particular mention for all her hard work.

(=a brief mention when other things seem more important)

There was only a passing mention of the event in the paper.

This book is particularly worthy of mention for the clarity of its writing.

(=the fact of saying something that seems unimportant)

The mere mention of his name caused her to burst into tears.

[n](bold) <[C usually singular, U](bold)>

when someone mentions something or someone in a conversation, piece of writing etc

He [made no mention](bold) of his wife’s illness.

他没有提起他妻子生病的事。

At the mention of a trip to the seaside, the children got very excited.

一提起去海边玩，孩子们就非常兴奋。

They all [get a mention](bold)(=they are all mentioned) in the book.

他们在书中全都被提到了。

There is one other person who deserves [special mention](bold)(=is especially worth mentioning for something they have done).

另外还有一人值得特别一提。


mentor

an experienced person who advises and helps a less experienced person


mentor

当〔某人〕的导师[指导者]

Now she mentors undergraduates who are training to be teachers.

眼下她对正在接受教师培训的大学生提供指导。


menu

Sandy read the menu, but didn’t see anything he wanted to eat.

He looked at the menu and decided to have the salad.

Erika began planning a menu for the dinner party.

He ordered a chicken dish from the menu.

The restaurant is offering a three-course menu for New Year’s Eve.

The new restaurant on Fifth Street has an excellent menu.

There is an extensive dinner menu, and seafood is a speciality.

(=when the cook decides which dishes will be served to you, rather than you choosing for yourself)

Dinner is three courses from a set menu.

(=a menu listing many separate dishes which you choose from)

In the evening there is a full à la carte menu.

I asked the waiter if there was a children’s menu.

a list of all the kinds of food that are available for a meal, especially in a restaurant

a three-course [set menu](bold)(=dishes which you do not choose for yourself)

a list of things on a computer screen which you can ask the computer to do

〔计算机屏幕上出现的〕菜单，功能选择单，选项单

在主菜单上选择“打印”。

[pull-down/drop-down menu](bold)(=a list of choices which appears when you )

[menu-driven](bold)(=operated by using a menu)


merchandise

A range of official Disney merchandise was on sale.

一系列正版的迪士尼商品在出售。

They inspected the merchandise carefully.


merchandise

to try to sell goods or services using methods such as advertising

〔用广告等方式〕推销〔商品或服务〕

If the product is properly merchandised, it should sell very well.

这种产品如果营销得当，应该会大卖。


merchant

someone whose job is to buy and sell wine, coal etc, or a small company that does this

葡萄酒商/煤炭商/木材商等

He had a job with an Edinburgh wine merchant.

他在爱丁堡的一个葡萄酒商那里做过事。

someone who buys and sells goods in large quantities

someone who is involved in a particular activity, such as tricking people or driving very fast


mercy

[be thankful/grateful for small mercies](bold) at → [small](->small) 1 sense 13

(=act in a kind or forgiving way - often used to express a hope or prayer)

‘God have mercy on me!’ Miss Barton cried.

He showed no mercy to those who had angered him.

The only thing I can do now is ask for mercy.

(=ask in a desperate way for someone's mercy)

She continued the punishment, although they begged for mercy.

He screamed for mercy, shouting 'don't shoot!'.

God in his great mercy has forgiven you.

Will we still receive God's mercy if we refuse to repent?

He did not lose his faith in God and divine mercy.

(=the quality of mercy that God has, which never ends)

He expressed his thanks for the infinite mercy of God in helping him escape from his own sinful life.

if someone shows mercy, they choose to forgive or to be kind to someone who they have the power to hurt or punish

He [showed no mercy to](bold) his enemies.

The boy was screaming and begging for mercy.

unable to do anything to protect yourself from someone or something

任凭某人/某物的摆布〔而无力保护自己〕

After the boat’s motor failed, they were at the mercy of the weather.

船的马达坏了，他们只能听命于天气了。

a mercy mission to help homeless refugees

帮助无家可归的难民的救援任务

to let someone be dealt with by another person, who may treat them very badly or strictly – used humorously

任凭某人受他人折磨[摆布]〔幽默用法〕

to ask someone to help you or forgive you when you are in a very bad situation

乞求某人帮助[宽恕]自己

used to say that it is lucky that a worse situation was avoided

It’s a mercy the accident happened so near the hospital.

幸亏事故发生在离医院很近的地方。


mere

[adj](bold) <[only before noun, no comparative](bold)>

used to emphasize how small or unimportant something or someone is

仅仅，只不过〔用于强调小或微不足道〕

She lost the election by a mere 20 votes.

她仅仅以20票之差落选。

It can’t be a [mere coincidence](bold) that they left at the same time.

他们同时离开不可能仅仅是巧合。

used to emphasize that something which is small or not extreme has a big effect or is important

极小的，极不重要的〔用于表示某物虽小或平常，却有很大的影响或重要性〕

The merest little noise makes him nervous.

一丁点的响声也会使他紧张。

The mere thought of food made her feel sick.

[The mere fact](bold) that the talks are continuing is a positive sign.

会谈仍在继续，单单这一点就是个好的征兆。