单词	spot
释义	spot1 nounspot2 verbspot3 adjective spotspot1 /spɒt $ spɑːt/ ●●● S2 W2 noun [countable] Entry menu MENU FOR spotspot1 place2 area3 mark4 on skin5 on the spot6 put somebody on the spot7 tv/radio8 position9 weak spot10 tight spot11 bright spot12 a spot of something13 spots of rain14 five-spot/ten-spot etc Word Origin WORD ORIGINspot1 Origin: 1100-1200 Perhaps from Middle Dutch spotte Examples EXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES a 30-second spot on the local radio station a chicken-pox spot Detectives found a few spots of blood on the carpet. Do you mind cleaning the grease spots behind the stove? Gabel's wins earned him a spot on the Olympic team. grease spots He has a bald spot on the top of his head. It looked like a perfect spot for a picnic. It took me about twenty minutes to find a parking spot. Las Vegas has a growing reputation as an entertainment and vacation spot. Oh no, I've got a spot on my new shirt! Our cat is covered with big brown spots. People had left flowers at the spot where the police officer was killed. Put some of the hardier plants outdoors in a protected spot. She agreed to meet him at the same spot the next evening. The essay is good, but a few spots still need some work. The letter was covered in small ink spots, as though his hand had been shaking as he wrote it. The museum sits on the exact spot where gold was first discovered. There are bike trails to the highest spot on the island, which has magnificent views of San Francisco. This looks like a good spot to stop and rest. EXAMPLES FROM THE CORPUS And after James Brooks dropped out of the directing spot, Ted Demme jumped in. But even Hymes has his blind spots. He had a bald spot, under a straggle of brown hair, and a ratty Fu Manchu moustache. I stood frozen to the spot unable to do anything. I think on all these courses you've got to pick your spots. Soon, they ceased to live on the spot, and employed agents to do their work. Supporters contend that Slaughterhouse Canyon is an ideal spot. Thesaurus THESAURUS► place a point or area, especially one that you visit or use for a particular purpose: · He’s been to lots of places.· a good meeting place ► position the exact place where someone or something is, in relation to other things: · She showed me the position of the village on the map.· I changed the position of the mirror slightly.· Jessica moved to a position where she could see the stage better. ► point a particular place on a line or surface: · At this point the path gets narrower.· No cars are allowed beyond this point. ► spot a place, especially a particular kind of place, or a place where something happens. Spot sounds rather informal: · She chose a sunny spot.· The area is a favourite spot for windsurfers.· This is the exact spot where I asked her to marry me. ► location a place where someone or something is, or where something happens. Location sounds more formal than place: · your exact location· The prisoners were taken to an undisclosed location.· an ideal location for a winter break ► site a place, especially one that will be used for a particular purpose, or where something important happened: · the site of a great battle· There are plans to develop the site for housing.· The area has become a dumping site for nuclear waste. ► venue a place where something such as a meeting, concert, game etc takes place: · the venue for the next Olympic Games· The hotel is a popular wedding venue. ► scene the place where something bad such as an accident or crime happened: · the scene of the crime· Ambulance crews were at the scene within minutes. ► setting the place and the area around it, where something is or where something happens: · The hotel is in a beautiful setting.· the setting for the film ‘A Room With a View’· Beautiful gardens provide the perfect setting for outdoor dining. ► somewhere used for talking about a place when you are not sure exactly which place: · She came from somewhere in London. ► whereabouts the place where someone or something is – used especially when you do not know this or do not want to tell people: · The whereabouts of the painting is unknown.· He refused to disclose his whereabouts.· I’m not sure about her whereabouts. Longman Language Activatoran area that is part of a surface► area part of a surface that has a particular size or shape: · There were several damp areas on the living room ceiling.area of: · After an hour's work, I had only cleaned a small area of the carpet. ► patch a small area that is different from the parts around it: · a white kitten with black patchespatch of: · I noticed a patch of dirt in the middle of the rug.damp/dirty/icy etc patch: · The car hit an icy patch on the road and went out of control. ► spot a small area that has been changed, especially because it is damaged or dirty, and looks different: · Do you mind cleaning the grease spots behind the stove?· Oh no, I've got a spot on my new shirt! to ask someone a question► ask · If you have any questions, don't be afraid to ask.· For information about the new drug, ask your doctor.ask (somebody) if/whether · I was a little surprised when he asked me if I was married.ask (somebody) about something · They'll probably just ask you about your education and work experience.ask (somebody) what/how/why etc · What should I tell people if they ask me why you didn't come to the party?ask (somebody) a question · At the end of the presentation you'll all have a chance to ask questions. ► consult to ask for information or advice from someone, because it is their job to know about it: · Before starting any exercise program, you should consult your doctor.consult with: · The President is going to consult with European leaders before making his decision.consult somebody about something: · We've consulted with several engineers about the best way to support the bridge. ► want to know to ask something - use this especially when you are reporting what someone else has asked: · "Why didn't you write to me?" Barbara wanted to know.· The policeman wanted to know their names, but they wouldn't tell him.want to know about: · Everybody in the office wanted to know about my trip.want to know where/how/why etc: · Jason wants to know where you keep the kitchen scissors. ► inquire also enquire especially British formal to ask someone for information about something, especially someone whose job is to know about it: · "Where is the director's office?" he enquired.· We inquired at all the hotels in town, but we couldn't find Carol anywhere.inquire about: · Several people have phoned the personnel department to inquire about the position.inquire if/whether: · She stopped a guard and enquired whether the train went to Evesham.inquire how/when etc: · We rang the hospital again to inquire how the old man was. ► sound out to find out what someone thinks about your plan or idea by asking them questions, especially because you want their help or support: sound somebody out: · I think she'll like the idea, but you'd better sound her out first.sound out somebody: · Before launching the project, they sounded out a number of leading experts.sound out about/on: · The board of directors have sounded him out about taking the CEO position. ► put somebody on the spot to deliberately ask someone a question that they find difficult or embarrassing to answer: · The reporter's questions were clearly designed to put the Senator on the spot.· I don't want to put you on the spot, but I'm really curious about how you know Tim. the most exciting part of something► climax the most exciting or important part of a story or event, usually near the end: climax of: · A parade through the streets marks the climax of the festival.reach a climax: · The opera reaches its climax with Violetta's death in the third act. ► high point/spot the most exciting, enjoyable, or important moment of an event or activity, especially one that continues for a long time: high point/spot of: · For Amelia, a high point of the trip was riding with her father on a Ferris wheel.· The 1972 election was the high spot of her political career. ► highlight the part of an event or activity such as a holiday or a game that is the most exciting or enjoyable, and that you remember most clearly: highlight of: · Highlights of the ball game will be shown later.· A highlight of most Alaska cruises is a day spent among the glaciers. in this place► here in or to the place where you are: · We've lived here for over a year now.· I'll stay here and wait for the others.· I love it here - it's so quiet and peaceful near the ocean.around here/round here/near here (=near this place): · Did you grow up around here?· I think Jeff lives somewhere near here.right here (=in this exact place): · The keys were right here 15 minutes ago. Where did they go?from here (=from this place): · I know a good Japanese restaurant not far from here.down/in/up etc here: · "Where are you?" "I'm down here in the basement."get/come/move etc here: · They got here about 15 minutes before you did. ► in this place in the place where you are now, especially a place that you like or dislike: · I'm sick of living in this place - there's nothing to do.· It's impossible to find a decent restaurant in this place. ► on this (very) spot in the place where you are standing, especially a place where something very important happened in the past: · It was on this very spot that President Kennedy was assassinated.· It's exciting to think that so many great men and women have made speeches on this spot. when you do something immediately► at a glance if you know something at a glance , you only need to look quickly in order to know immediately what is happening, how someone feels etc: can see/tell (something) at a glance: · I could see at a glance that the situation was serious.· An expert can tell at a glance whether it's a real diamond or a fake. ► on the spot if you do something on the spot , you do it immediately, without taking time to think about the situation, without waiting for official permission etc: · I was so angry I almost resigned on the spot.· The police can fine motorists on the spot for driving offences.· Look, I can't give you a decision on the spot. I'll have to talk to my boss first. ► there and then/then and there if you do something or decide something there and then or then and there , you do it immediately and without stopping to think or delaying your decision until a later time: · When Kate knew John was seeing someone else, she should have left him then and there.· This time I'd gone too far, and I quit drinking there and then. ► off the top of your head informal if you answer a question or provide information off the top of your head , you do it immediately, using information you already know, and without thinking about it or trying to find out more about it: · "How old is Chris?" "I don't know off the top of my head."· There are some good restaurants around here, but I can't tell you their names off the top of my head. ► right off/right off the bat American informal if you do or say something right off or right off the bat , you do it or say it immediately, without taking time to think about it: · I couldn't think of a reply right off.· We let them know right off the bat that we weren't going with them. a mark on something that spoils its appearance► mark a spot or line on clothes, furniture, a wall, or floor etc, for example where it has been damaged, made dirty, or where someone has dropped liquid on it: · There are marks on the door where the cat has scratched it.make a mark: · Hot cups of tea can make marks on polished tables.dirty/greasy/sticky mark: · How did you get that dirty mark on your T-shirt?dirt/grease/pencil mark: · His shoes had left dirt marks across the carpet. ► stain a large mark that is difficult to remove, made when a liquid such as coffee or wine falls onto something: · I can't get this stain out of the carpet.grass/coffee/wine/blood stain: · Salt is the best cure for a red wine stain. ► spot a small round area on a surface, which is of a different colour from the rest of the surface and is made especially by drops of liquid: spot of: · Detectives found a few spots of blood on the carpet.ink/paint/oil spots: · The letter was covered in small ink spots, as though his hand had been shaking as he wrote it. ► patch especially British an area where dirt, water, oil etc has made a mark on a floor, wall, or ceiling: greasy/dirty/damp patch: · There's a damp patch under the window.patch of dirt/damp/grease: · Patches of grease covered the kitchen walls. ► smudge a dirty mark made when ink or paint is accidentally rubbed on a surface: · You can't hand your homework in with those smudges all over it.smudge of: · Ella had a smudge of green paint on her cheek. the exact place where something is or happens► position the exact place where something or someone is, especially in relation to other things or people: · Jessica moved to a position where she could see the stage better.· Bombs were dropped on the enemy position.· You can tell roughly what time it is by the sun's position. ► point a particular place on a line or on a surface, especially a place that is used for measuring distances, heights etc: · The river at this point is half a mile wide.· Soon they came to a point where the road divided.· Ward Hill, at over 700 feet, is the island's highest point. ► spot the exact place where something is or happens: · People had left flowers at the spot where the police officer was killed.the exact/very/same etc spot: · The museum sits on the exact spot where gold was first discovered.· She agreed to meet him at the same spot the next evening. ► exact/precise location written the exact place where something is or happens: · The exact location of the ship, which sank in 1857, is being kept secret.· A military spokesman would not reveal the exact location of the search area.· Molecular biologists have found the precise location of the gene. a place► place · Plant the daisies in a sunny place.· Keep your passport in a safe place.· a quiet, private place to read in· Britain is one of the most highly populated places in the world.a place to sit/eat/sleep etc · Sign your name on the list, and find yourself a place to sit.· I was looking for a place to park the car.place for · This would be a great place for a party!right/wrong place · Are you sure this is the right place? I don't see Emma. ► location a place in which someone lives, something happens, or something is built - used especially in business, advertising, or in official contexts: · a new hotel in an attractive location· The time, date, and location of the conference have not yet been announced.· Authorities say they have pinpointed the location of the sunken ship. ► spot a place, especially a pleasant place, where you spend time or live: · We camped in a pleasant, shady spot beside the river.· There are bike trails to the highest spot on the island, which has magnificent views of San Francisco.· Put some of the hardier plants outdoors in a protected spot.spot for: · It looked like a perfect spot for a picnic.holiday spotBritish /vacation spot American: · Las Vegas has a growing reputation as an entertainment and vacation spot. ► site a place where something such as a building exists now, is going to exist in the future, or where something existed in the past: · an important archaeological site· The town has purchased a site on Villa Avenue for the new library.site of: · A home for the elderly will be built on the site of the old hospital.building site British /construction site American (=place where a new building is being built): · Green fences were put up around the construction site. ► venue a place for an arranged event or meeting, for example a sports or musical event: · The concert's still on Saturday but the venue has been changed.venue for: · The restaurant is one of the few venues for jazz music in the area.· Ministers have not yet agreed on a venue for the next Conference on European Security. ► whereabouts the place or area where someone or something is, especially when this is unknown or is being kept secret: somebody's whereabouts: · The police received an anonymous tip about the suspect's whereabouts.· Despite numerous searches and enquiries, her whereabouts are still unknown.whereabouts of: · The police have appealed for information concerning the whereabouts of the stolen car used in the robbery.· They tried to torture him into revealing the whereabouts of the $90 million, but he didn't know anything. to be in a very difficult situation► be in a fix informal to be in a difficult situation and not know what to do: · The team's owner is in a fix - he's spent a lot to improve the stadium, but ticket sales are still declining.· Wyck's business consists of helping, for a fee, computer owners who are in a technical fix. ► be in a tight spot/corner to be in a very difficult or dangerous situation, when there is very little you can do to get out of it: · A mobile phone lets you reach help when you're in a tight spot.· O'Neill had been in tight corners before, but never as tight as this one.put somebody in a tight spot (=give someone a difficult problem): · Losing his job put them in a tight spot financially. ► be in a mess/be a mess to have so many problems that there is not much hope that things will get better, especially as a result of past mistakes: · The previous manager had left the restaurant's affairs in a terrible mess.get into a mess: · How did you manage to get into this mess in the first place?somebody's life is a mess (=they have a lot of problems and seem unable to deal with them): · Her boyfriend left her and she lost her job - her life is just a mess at the moment. ► be in a difficult/awkward position to be in a difficult situation because whatever you do, you are likely to offend someone or make things worse: · I was in a difficult position, as I was being asked to confront a man who had much more power than I did.put somebody in a difficult/awkward position: · Clara was angry at Harry for putting her in such an awkward position. ► be in an impossible position to be in an extremely difficult situation, because whatever you do there will certainly be serious trouble: · I'm in an impossible position -- if I criticize him he may resign, but if I don't he'll end up ruining the whole project.put somebody in an impossible position: · By bringing his objections out into the open, the Chancellor has put the Prime Minister in an impossible position. ► be in a quandary to be in a very difficult situation and not be able to decide what is the best thing for you to do: · I was in a quandary - I didn't know whether to tell the police or not.· The government has got itself into a quandary over the new tax -- if they abandon it they will be seen as weak, if they keep it they will be very unpopular. ► be in dire straits to have very serious problems, especially financial ones, which could have very serious results: · The company is in dire financial straits.· The team is in such dire straits they've even considered selling their three best players. ► it's one thing after another spoken say this when you have had a series of problems and you feel that these problems will never end: · It's been one thing after another since I started renting out the place to students.· It's one thing after another with that stupid photocopier! What's wrong with it now? to be at an event where you are not now► be there · What was the game like? Were there many people there?· I went to a party last night and your sister was there too.· A lot of the people at the charity event were only there to look at other people. ► be at if someone is at a particular event, they are there in order to see or hear it: · Most of the actors in the movie were at the New York preview.· I don't remember Uncle Bob. I don't think he was at the funeral.· Were you at the meeting when they announced the layoffs? ► be present formal if someone is present at a special or official event, they are there, especially because it is important that they should see what is happening: · The only people who were present for the ceremony were the bride and groom, the priest, and two witnesses.be present at/for: · It was very important to Jim to be present for the birth of his first child.those present (=the people there): · Those present at the trial said that the accused looked cheerful. ► be on the scene to be in the place where something such as an accident or crime has happened: · Journalists were on the scene within minutes of the plane crash.· A Safety Board team was on the scene Monday morning to try to determine the cause of the accident. ► be on the spot especially British to be in the place where something very interesting or exciting happens: · I'm going to the stadium. I want to be on the spot when they announce the international team.· Many reporters, in an attempt to be on the spot in war time, have ended up being killed. ► be in attendance formal to be at a special or important event, especially in order to take part in it: · Over 2000 police were in attendance at yesterday's demonstration.· The First Lady was in attendance for most of the conference sessions.· He always enjoyed going to Stewart's parties where famous people were sure to be in attendance. WORD SETS► Television & Radio action replay, nounAM, nounanchor, nounanchor, verbanchorperson, nounannounce, verbannouncer, nounantenna, nounAutocue, nounbleep, verbbreakfast television, nounbroadcaster, nounbroadcasting, nouncable, nouncable television, call-in, nouncathode ray tube, nounchannel surfing, nounchat show, nounclosedown, nounCNN, continuity, noundisc jockey, nounepisode, nounfast-forward, verbfly-on-the-wall, adjectiveFM, noungame show, nounghetto blaster, nounheadphones, nounhost, nouninfomercial, nouninfotainment, nouninstant replay, nouninterference, nounITV, lead-in, nounlocal radio, nounloop, nounminiseries, nounmonitor, nounnarrator, nounnetwork, nounnetwork, verbnews, nounnews agency, nounnews bulletin, nounnewscast, nounnewsflash, nounnewsreader, nounomnibus, nounon, prepositionout-take, nounphone-in, nounpilot, nounplay-by-play, nounpresent, verbprime time, nounprogramme, nounprogramming, nounpublic access channel, nounpublic television, nounquestion master, nounquiz, nounradio, nounremote, nounrepeat, verbrepeat, nounrequest, nounscreen, nounscreen, verbscreening, nounscreenplay, nounscreenwriter, nounscriptwriter, nounseason, nounsimulcast, verbsitcom, nounsituation comedy, nounsoap, nounsoap opera, nounsound, nounspeaker, nounspin-off, nounsplit screen, nounsportscast, nounspot, nounstation break, nounstudio, nounstudio audience, nounswingometer, nountalking head, nountalk show, nountest card, nountrailer, nountransmission, nountube, nounTV, nounvideo, nounvideo camera, nounvideo nasty, nounvoice-over, nounwardrobe, nounweatherman, nounwireless, nounzapper, noun Collocations COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRY► the exact/same/very spot  the exact spot where the king was executed ► guest spot  a guest spot on ‘The Tonight Show’ ► had a weak spot for  I’ve always had a weak spot for chocolate. ► puts ... in ... tight spot  This puts the chairman in a very tight spot. ► get ... out of a tight spot  I hope you can help get me out of a tight spot. ► one bright spot  The computer industry is the one bright spot in the economy at the moment. ► only bright spot  The only bright spot of the evening was when the food arrived. ► a spot of bother  I’ve been having a spot of bother (=some problems) with my car. COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES► a spot check (=a quick check of one thing in a group done to obtain information)· They did a spot check on 160 vehicles to see how many passengers were wearing seat belts. ► spot the difference (=see the difference)· It’s easy to spot the difference between real and imitation leather. ► find/spot/notice an error · His accountant spotted several errors in his tax return. ► the exact position/location/spot etc · The satellite pictures showed the enemy’s exact location. ► be glued to the spot British English Sarah was glued to the spot, terrified by the scene in front of her. ► lonely place/road/spot etc ► parking space/place/spot  I couldn’t find a parking space near the shops. ► a picnic spot/place (=a place that is suitable for a picnic)· We found a beautiful picnic spot. ► secluded garden/spot/beach etc  We sunbathed on a small secluded beach. ► make/do/carry out etc spot checks  We carry out spot checks on the vehicles before they leave the depot. ► a tourist destination/centre/spot · Egypt became a popular tourist destination in the nineteenth century. ► a vacation spot (=a place for a vacation)· The island is my favorite vacation spot. COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSADJECTIVE► black · It has olive-green skin with black spots or rings and lives near water or rivers.· Mr Bean's mate was bringing out an extraordinary white horse covered in black spots.· With increasing frequency, it seems, the good talking-to becomes a permanent black spot on a school record.· Jim, if I get the black spot, you go to that doctor.· We examined the broken ends of the rattan stay and found black spots of mould growing inside the strands.· But he was wearing a bikini, a pink bikini with big black spots all over it.· As she moved to obey, the black spot of the gun followed her unerringly across the sitting room. ► blind · The trouble was, Tweed was thinking, Paula had a blind spot where Dalby was concerned.· But even Hymes has his blind spots.· It was the blind spot of the internationalist Left.· It is as though the panel has developed a blind spot which does not admit the possibility that the newcomer might win.· He knew if some one was standing in the blind spot directly behind him, he was in trouble.· Finlayson spent fifteen minutes teaching Tribe the signals, and describing the blind spots of enemy aircraft.· The queue shuffled into a blind spot between two viewports. ► bright · This and our unbelievable performance against Northtown have been the only bright spots in another nightmare week.· Yet the South Carolina economy does have bright spots.· The Slater boys used to be the brightest spot in my day.· But for every bright spot in the region there was a laggard.· During the evening of that Christmas Day came a really bright spot as far as I was concerned.· I kept on seeing little bright spots, so I kept on turning my legs.· Cadney one of the few bright spots.· The body is reddish-brown covered with small bright blue spots that are more numerous toward the rear. ► dark · When the fresh retina was dissected under dim red light, the fovea was usually visible as a dark spot.· An increase in the number of dark spots on the sun marks such a period of high solar activity.· A small dark spot, very like a mole.· Something seemed to be absorbing the bright ultraviolet glow in dark spots 25 to 50 miles wide.· In summer the coat tends to become dappled with darker spots.· If skies are clear, find a dark spot with a wide view of the sky, relax and enjoy.· This fish is dar above with blue spots and light below with dark brown spots.· They are greenish gray to yellowish with many large round dark spots. ► exact · He wasn't interested in an examination by torchlight of the exact spot where Harry Lawrence and the contact had fallen.· And at Niagara, guides pocketed tips by pointing to the exact spot where Sam Patch had made his last successful leap.· Hundreds of temple volunteers ensured that you were seated in the exact spot marked out for you.· The exact spot on the bridge table the gold vase belonged.· They selected the exact spot which bisects exactly the continents and oceans.· Lickliter followed by hitting his drive in the exact same spot.· All I could see was the posts and the exact spot centrally between them where I was going to touch down.· You can shew me the exact spot and that will save time. ► high · Only high spot from what should have been a red letter day was the terrific £300 raised for the local Hartlepool hospice.· After pulling himself to a higher spot, he called again, got through and was plucked from the mountain.· The high spot of the evening was a photograph of Russell's office wall with all its railway memorabilia.· But these are only a few of the high spots.· Recover the outline and high spots by removing the patina from them with the grease remover or polishing powder.· That gave it a high spot on her list of things to put out of commission. 0314.· Below: High spot of many a visitor's trip is aerobatics in a Tiger Moth.· The high spot of the tour, however, was to be an audience with the Pope. ► hot · Palm-fringed beaches, guaranteed gorgeous weather and an equally warm local welcome make it one of the finest holiday hot-spots.· Wilson then proposed that hot spots all over the globe possessed this same steadiness.· But melanoma country is any hot spot.· The clusters of hot spots were yet another case of inside affecting outside.· Now it claims to be receiving up to ten a week, with Glasgow and Yorkshire emerging as illegal software hot spots.· His unit was shipping out for the latest hot spot, Formosa, in a couple of weeks.· Places that some people somehow seem to pass by, in search of more recently heard of hot spots.· In all the years since Wilson proposed his theory of hot spots, plumes have remained elusive, practically imaginary structures. ► lonely · It was a lonely spot, and no-one would know for a few days.· They retreated to keep under cover in some dark lonely spot. ► only · This and our unbelievable performance against Northtown have been the only bright spots in another nightmare week.· Of course, Skewers is a laid back, lunch-only spot.· Their only bright spot, thus far, being a 5-1 defeat of Swindon.· The only bright spot was the news that Lewis should be fit to bowl in the final Test.· Its only weak spot is in coping with bigger potholes, which send a jarring crash through the bodyshell.· The only really important spot is Soapy Finnegan this evening.· Hit the post, penalties turned down ... The only bright spots seem to be Strach's comeback and a 3-0 win.· The only bright spot was when Diana decided to give one of her presents away to a rather irascible nightwatchman. ► red · Jessica felt her eyes close but could see the light, two hot white searchlights, hot red spots.· Check your feet daily for cuts, sores, bumps and red spots, especially if you have diabetes.· Various other spots were tried on the yellow beak, the red spot causing the greatest response.· They were sunfish, beautiful gold-and-green fish with a bright red spot on the edge of each gill cover.· When he looked at it, there was blood oozing from two split knuckles. Red spots had splashed across the picture.· This one is black with red spots.· Her face would be pale except for two red spots high on her cheekbones.· The red spots in the caudal peduncle region are one of the unique characteristics of this species. ► small · Guppies suffering from this disease are covered in small white spots.· The system requires depth at the small forward spot, which the Warriors lack, and good ball-handlers.· When a complementary wavelength is used the response to the small spot only occurs at the offset of the stimulus.· The body is reddish-brown covered with small bright blue spots that are more numerous toward the rear.· We realise that this is simply a small sacred spot in the midst of environmental carnage.· In one large room, dancers could reserve a small spot on the floor to work on solo numbers.· Both sexes have a small black spot in the midline at the base of the tail stalk.· These black markings can be in the form of small black spots or larger markings. ► soft · Chub I have a very soft spot in my heart for chub.· The length of the piece tends to display the soft spots of dystopian fiction: plot improbabilities, claustrophobic metaphors.· She had a soft spot for Jimmy.· To find your soft spots, read the following rules and determine which ones you consistently break.· However, abscesses should never be lanced until there is an obvious soft spot in the centre of the swelling.· Most recently, Matt identified soft spots in our proposals including old and irrelevant information.· More experimentally-minded workers have since found many soft spots in what had seemed a solid concept.· Smart, alert, good hands, finds the soft spots. ► sore · In more serious cases your doctor may prescribe you an oral antibiotic which will reduce the number of sore and inflamed spots.· This is a sore spot with me.· And now she had pierced her again in this sore spot.· Tom gently washed Willie's body again and smoothed witch-hazel on to the sore spots.· It's a warm good wine; it hits some little sore spot. ► tight · I think also that three other Hearthwares shall come, in case we need to fight our way out of some tight spot.· He had been in many tight spots during his life, and guarding a warehouse did not trouble him unduly.· Eight extra bullets in a tight spot could mean the difference between life and death.· BThis is one of the tight spots of the restaurant business.· Drawbacks are the introduction of a bit more slop in the system and the potential for reduced access in tight spots.· Or a mite more forgiving in a tight spot?· You're in a tight spot. ► top · He led the ballot, getting enough votes to claim the top spot as head cheerleader.· Norton seconds held Sunderland to 3-3, so the Wearsiders slipped off the top spot.· What we will never know is what price Ford will have to pay to get it to the top spot.· Not so long ago Eamon Darcy was edged out of the top nine automatic spots, losing by a matter of a few points.· Essex as well as being the champion county take the top spot from Middlesex.· Gourley and Letham hold top spots in their respective sections.· Both managers were content with a result which leaves United in top spot and Swindon third. ► very · He had passed by the very spot only the other day, and it had brought tears to his eyes.· Chub I have a very soft spot in my heart for chub.· Which is why we're meeting here at this very spot.· Three years ago a tortoise of ours got killed like that and on just about this very spot.· As if, on this very spot a hundred years ago ... what?· This is a very popular spot for picnics, and cars are prohibited at the rest house.· I'd stood near that very spot with a chum and rejoiced at Wilson's victory. ► weak · Rheumatic fever as a child, so the infection settled there, on the weakest spot.· Fogarty told me he was eleven when he understood his own weak spot.· If this type of interviewer senses a weak spot he or she will hang on in there - mercilessly.· So while the weather is reasonably dry, check the exterior for weak spots in the defences.· A young teenage girl often becomes hypercritical of her mum-and knows exactly how to hit her weak spots.· Its only weak spot is in coping with bigger potholes, which send a jarring crash through the bodyshell.· He had two fundamental weak spots.· Find a weak spot and pick at it. ► white · For true white spot, W.S.3 is an excellent remedy, and there is no need to isolate the fish during treatment.· I sat in my seat watching little white spots drift in front of me.· Guppies suffering from this disease are covered in small white spots.· Very pale green spots on the head and white spots on the body over a brown ground color identify this species.· The next day the fungus had dropped off and there were less white spots.· The rest of the fish is light ta or white with orange spots.· A white spot on a yellow model gathered very little more response.· Thrush typically produces white spots on the palate. NOUN► beauty · She wears a lot of makeup and even a false beauty spot on her cheek.· Ted, who has lived for over thirty years in Yorkshire, will guide you to a different beauty spot every day.· The beauty spot brings back horrific memories for the couple; memories of a night they were not meant to survive.· Guests can enjoy trips to local beauty spots, dancing at a local hotel, and visits to local theatres.· He attacked the couple as they cuddled in their car at a remote beauty spot. ► check · Perhaps random spot checks could be carried out in the same way as breathalyser tests.· The cutters often worked in a vacuum, so to speak, relying on spot checks and routine searches during their patrols.· Most drivers pass the spot check, not so this Volkswagen. ► market · There is both a spot market and a forward market in most currencies.· The recent increases were in line with movements in the Rotterdam spot market.· They found that, for each index, the futures market led the spot market by a few minutes.· Futures prices rise too, pulling the spot market behind them.· In addition you will also find the oil spot market, the energy future exchange, the grain exchange and the fruit auction.· This additional information is then available to traders in the spot market. ► night · Top-O Smart, stylish night spot.· She looked thoroughly sophisticated, the type to want to hit the night spots.· Buster Brown's A dashing and exciting night spot.· The most renowned of these pipe bands travel periodically to the cities, where they perform in night spots for tourists.· The Lord Darnley One of the city's most exciting night spots.· Top O'Night Club Sophisticated night spot with style and taste, wide range of wines and whisky.· Scarborough has six leading night spots.· Buster Brown's Enjoyment is the keynote of this popular Edinburgh night spot, with exotic drinks a speciality. ► penalty · Craig Smith put them ahead before Kevin Harmison levelled from the penalty spot.· It too will have extra time and kicks from the penalty spot if necessary.· But for Stuart Gault's priceless accuracy from the penalty spot, Derry's cause would now almost certainly be lost.· He was fouled by Michael Goddard in the box and Barney Bowers duly obliged from the penalty spot.· United took the lead from the penalty spot.· Referee Worrall pointed to the penalty spot.· And moments later more trouble hit Everton as Alan Shearer collected his seventh goal in eight games from the penalty spot. ► price · In contrast, the future spot price can not be known with certainty precisely because it is a future price.· However, the correlations between current changes in the spot price and lagged changes in the futures price were low.· The width of this band depends not only on f, but also on the spot price and the riskless interest rate.· Before the delivery date, the futures price could be above or below the spot price.· Therefore, the introduction of futures will increase the amount of information reflected in the spot price. ► rate · The spot rate is also known as the basic rate or telegraphic transfer rate.· There is a second condition required for a rational agent to be indifferent between equal forward and expected future spot rates.· The forward rates quoted by banks in the foreign exchange market stand either at a premium or discount in relation to the spot rate.· Banks quote spot rates against the dollar.· The forward rate may not be equal to the expected future spot rate.· Premiums are therefore deducted from the spot rate.· A premium is deducted from the existing spot rate.· This is guaranteed by the bank, irrespective of what happens to the spot rate over the next three months. ► trouble · Their occupational duty, as they saw it, was equally clear-sufficient numbers and mobile reserves for the trouble spots.· In the event of a threat to security, they would grab their helmets and weapons and rush to the trouble spot.· As the verb is the first trouble spot encountered in the sentence, the substitution is made there.· Undeterred, the band went sight-seeing around the various trouble spots, getting their pictures taken besides security gates and confused-looking squaddies.· Typically, the software comes with a pre-programmed database of known Internet trouble spots.· The list of trouble spots is endless.· Local News Editor Rona Johnson was especially effective directing reporters to new trouble spots. VERB► change · The leopard did not change its spots, its instincts or its appetites.· We are happy to report, therefore, that Jaguar Man appears to have changed his spots.· Agitatedly, it changed its spots from orange to blue to green and, finally, flushed perfectly purple. ► choose · As buckles are amongst my favourite finds this was a good enough reason to choose this spot for a further search.· Setting the two filter angles corresponds to choosing spots to rub off.· Again, when you do let it run free, try to choose a quiet spot away from people as much as possible.· He chose the same spot by himself the next evening.· Siegfried had chosen his spot well - half way between two watch-towers. ► find · Shortly afterwards they found the ideal spot.· She finds her spot outside the three-point line and lofts the ball, pushing from her fingertips.· He found the spot where the three reeds were growing and at a single blow cut down all three with his sword.· People who hit a $ 50 jackpot likely have found their favorite spot.· The body of Angela Stewart was found at a picnic spot near Farnham.· It takes nearly two hours, but they finally find the spot.· More experimentally-minded workers have since found many soft spots in what had seemed a solid concept.· You won't find this at trendier spots. ► hit · The cognac was not quite up to Skipton's fine Napoleonic standards, but it hit the spot with unerring accuracy.· It is one reason why the Clippers seem to hit a dry spot offensively in most games.· She looked thoroughly sophisticated, the type to want to hit the night spots.· Remember when Wilkinson hit that rough spot in the board meeting?· A young teenage girl often becomes hypercritical of her mum-and knows exactly how to hit her weak spots.· Finally, doctors hit the right spot, and the sound of angry hornets filled the operating room.· It just hit the right spot.· So why does it shock us and shake us so badly when we hit a tough spot? ► mark · Flowers yesterday marked the spot where Mr Reed died.· And I marked out the spots.· The slip knot should be marked with a spot of colour on the line.· They marked the spots and checked to be sure the radios were working, then let the turtles go.· Two stones, standing vertically, mark the spot.· He returned the ball to the marked spot on the fairway and pulled a club from the bag.· All that remained was the odd burnt-out farmhouse to mark the spot where civilisation had once existed.· Pilots of the planes had planned to drop bouquets, funeral wreaths and a smoke flare to mark the spot. ► park · After a peg-legged walk from the parking spot, I arrived to an empty foyer.· Nearest parking spot appears to be in Utah.· The city could take back the 110 additional diplomat parking spots it created under the pact, Mastro said.· Miguel crawled up the street slowly, slipping into a parking spot a block down from the fire.· Why should I have to pay $ 40 for a parking spot?· There was a parking spot for us right out front.· They manage to lead urbane lives while not having to search the block foolishly for a parking spot. ► pick · I think on all these courses you've got to pick your spots.· He had picked the spot perfectly.· Impromptu teams are picked on the spot, with a knowledgeable captain to ensure a balance.· It was one of those cases where we trusted the ground guys to pick the spot.· Sunderland reacted quickly to the set-back, with club record singing Don Goodman calmly picking his spot to equalise a minute later.· Miguel told him, picking a spot opposite the car seat for the desk.· Now, as momentum picks up, vacant spots downtown are filling in, like a jigsaw puzzle falling into place.· Yellow flight, this is Preacher Six. Pick your spots. ► point · And at Niagara, guides pocketed tips by pointing to the exact spot where Sam Patch had made his last successful leap.· But after deliberation, referee Hart pointed to the spot and Molby cracked in the penalty.· He points to a spot of oil in the water and hurls his harpoon and strikes the spot dead center. ► root · For a moment, she was rooted to the spot.· He stood rooted to the spot.· The noise hypnotised the Wooltons, rooting them to the spot.· He had covered half the distance when a loud, commanding voice rooted him to the spot.· After all, you don't want to be rooted to the spot in front of a microphone - you want to perform!· An accountant is rooted to the spot as sheets of glass plummet towards her.· They'd just set foot back in the ship proper when the burst of machine gun fire rooted them to the spot. ► stand · I stood frozen to the spot unable to do anything.· That occurred some seven hundred years ago, yet I stood upon that same spot where he died.· He knew if some one was standing in the blind spot directly behind him, he was in trouble.· He stood rooted to the spot.· I remember standing in the same spot two years before without two nickels to rub together.· By the time the rope went tight I had been standing in the same spot for nearly an hour and a half.· Black, taking his cue from the darkness, stands up from his spot and extends his hand to Blue. Phrases PHRASES FROM THE ENTRY► weak spot A young teenage girl often becomes hypercritical of her mum-and knows exactly how to hit her weak spots. Find a weak spot and pick at it. Fogarty told me he was eleven when he understood his own weak spot. He had two fundamental weak spots. If this type of interviewer senses a weak spot he or she will hang on in there - mercilessly. Its only weak spot is in coping with bigger potholes, which send a jarring crash through the bodyshell. Rheumatic fever as a child, so the infection settled there, on the weakest spot. So while the weather is reasonably dry, check the exterior for weak spots in the defences. ► tight spot BThis is one of the tight spots of the restaurant business. Drawbacks are the introduction of a bit more slop in the system and the potential for reduced access in tight spots. Eight extra bullets in a tight spot could mean the difference between life and death. He had been in many tight spots during his life, and guarding a warehouse did not trouble him unduly. I think also that three other Hearthwares shall come, in case we need to fight our way out of some tight spot. Or a mite more forgiving in a tight spot? You're in a tight spot. ► bright spot But for every bright spot in the region there was a laggard. But now even those bright spots may be fading. I kept on seeing little bright spots, so I kept on turning my legs. Redland was a bright spot, up 34p at 481p, after figures and the Steetley merger. The money was the one bright spot the evening had produced so far, the carrot to the threat of the stick. The only bright spot was the news that Lewis should be fit to bowl in the final Test. This and our unbelievable performance against Northtown have been the only bright spots in another nightmare week. Yet the South Carolina economy does have bright spots. ► a spot of something A large emerald ring flashed a spot of light into a dark corner of the room. Even the protection of the House of Lords is lacking, thanks to a spot of bother Lloyd George had in 1911. Everyone benefited from knowing them so a spot of poaching was not held against them. He points to a spot of oil in the water and hurls his harpoon and strikes the spot dead center. He turned up with his pals at the Isle of Man boat this morning, looking for a spot of trouble. Hopefully, it was all over now and he'd be able to take a spot of leave. Lord C told her to take a spot of leave before reporting for a short parachute course. Uncle Albert was squatting down by the flower bed doing a spot of weeding. ► spots of rain A few spots of rain fell on Claire. As they passed through the town of Isserre, spots of rain spat on to the windscreen. But although it was early the sky had become quite dark and he felt a few spots of rain. But most areas did avoid the rain apart from a few spots of rain over the islands. ► five-spot/ten-spot etc► on the spot I was so angry I almost resigned on the spot. Look, I can't give you a decision on the spot. I'll have to talk to my boss first. The Americans did not have troops on the spot and could not control events. The police can fine motorists on the spot for driving offences. They offered me a job on the spot. All is done to avoid being put on the spot or challenged. And he did, there and then, on the spot. I hiked across valleys so flat and wide it sometimes felt that I was walking on the spot. Impromptu teams are picked on the spot, with a knowledgeable captain to ensure a balance. My mom fired him on the spot and called in an orthopedic specialist. Often, everyone deals directly with the leader, who can make most decisions on the spot. One man announced that if Misner reached shore alone he would shoot him on the spot. The company agreed, a dozen people were filmed, each was paid on the spot, and all concerned were pleased. ► put somebody on the spot I don't want to put you on the spot, but I'm really curious about how you know Tim. The reporter's questions were clearly designed to put the Senator on the spot. You shouldn't put friends on the spot by asking them to hire your family members. Now the Supreme Court has put him on the spot. That sure put you on the spot. The aim was to put them on the spot - or at least to impress the Inspector with your knowledge and concern. This put Charles on the spot. PHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES► break out in spots/a rash/a sweat etc► bright spot The show has a few bright spots, but is mainly uninspiring. But for every bright spot in the region there was a laggard. But now even those bright spots may be fading. I kept on seeing little bright spots, so I kept on turning my legs. Redland was a bright spot, up 34p at 481p, after figures and the Steetley merger. The money was the one bright spot the evening had produced so far, the carrot to the threat of the stick. The only bright spot was the news that Lewis should be fit to bowl in the final Test. This and our unbelievable performance against Northtown have been the only bright spots in another nightmare week. Yet the South Carolina economy does have bright spots. ► change your spots Agitatedly, it changed its spots from orange to blue to green and, finally, flushed perfectly purple. The leopard did not change its spots, its instincts or its appetites. We are happy to report, therefore, that Jaguar Man appears to have changed his spots. ► come out in spots/a rash etc Tell them you've come out in a rash, or something. ► hit the spot A cold beer sure would hit the spot. The cognac was not quite up to Skipton's fine Napoleonic standards, but it hit the spot with unerring accuracy. ► knock spots off somebody/something It certainly knocks spots off anything attempted by the newly-Thatcherising Conservatives in the run-up to the 1979 election. ► a leopard can’t change its spots► can see/spot/tell something a mile off But I think he's lovely, and you can tell a mile off that he likes you. He's a hawkeye, and can spot one a mile off, like that faraway kestrel. Our sportsdesk can spot from a mile off a person who can not tell an in-swinger from a bouncer. ► be riveted to the spot► rooted to the spot/floor/ground etc Ashi found herself rooted to the spot in disbelief as she watched the threshing legs of her daughter. For a few moments he had felt rooted to the floor and had been unable to move. For a moment, she was rooted to the spot. He stands still, his feet rooted to the ground, his knees locked. He stood rooted to the spot. So startled was he by this sudden onslaught, Ryker momentarily froze, rooted to the spot. Unable to move, Philippa remained rooted to the spot. ► have a soft spot for somebody Although I have a soft spot for him after his super-game Hennessy win, he does not appeal greatly as 7-2 favourite. I do have a soft spot for Britain's best-selling car, the Ford Fiesta. The reason why I have a soft spot for this notebook, he wrote. ► sore point/spot/subject (with somebody) And now she had pierced her again in this sore spot. Finally, there are plans to provide custodians a sore point to enable the churches to open for two hours a day. Graduate entry with resultant opportunities for promotion was then - as now - an especially sore point. It is still a sore point with both grandparents that neither Alice nor Henry have been baptized. The potential restriction of physician income is a major sore point. This is a sore spot with me. Tom gently washed Willie's body again and smoothed witch-hazel on to the sore spots. ► in a tight corner/spot And now here was I in a tight corner and was I going to use violence? Did people in tight corners always turn to her? Drawbacks are the introduction of a bit more slop in the system and the potential for reduced access in tight spots. Eight extra bullets in a tight spot could mean the difference between life and death. However, employers could find themselves in a tight corner if they attempted to increase employee contributions or reduce benefits. Or a mite more forgiving in a tight spot? The better choice here is a crescent-pattern spanner which has angled jaws so that it can be reversed in tight corners. You're in a tight spot. ► weak points/spots Are you naturally more cautious, preferring to test the strength of your enemy before striking at his weak points? He had not dealt with the bishop's weak points nor, according to Hooker, had he carried the audience with him. However, in most of these, effusive approval is showered upon her, and her weak points are minimized. Positive interpretation of weaknesses Be honest about assessing your weak points as well. Scattered in pursuit, they provided perfect weak points for our counterattack. That is why molecular studies designed to find the weak points in the viral attack must continue, Trono said. We examined our weak points, and turned them into strengths. What are his strong and weak points? ► X marks the spot Word family WORD FAMILYadjectivespottedspotlessspottynounspotverbspotadverbspotlessly 1place a particular place or area, especially a pleasant place where you spend time:  a nice quiet spot on the beach I chose a spot well away from the road.in a spot a small cottage in an idyllic spoton a spot Why do they want to build a house on this particular spot?the exact/same/very spot the exact spot where the king was executedspot for an ideal spot for a picnic► see thesaurus at place2area a usually round area on a surface that is a different colour or is rougher, smoother etc than the rest SYN  patch:  a white cat with brown spotsspot of Two spots of colour appeared in Jill’s cheeks.3mark a small mark on something, especially one that is made by a liquid:  There was a big damp spot on the wall.spot of a few spots of blood4on skin a)a small round red area on someone’s skin that shows that they are ill:  He had a high fever and was covered in spots. b)British English a small raised red mark on someone’s skin, especially on their face SYN  pimple:  Becka was very self-conscious about her spots.5on the spot a)if you do something on the spot, you do it immediately, often without thinking about it very carefully → on-the-spot:  He had to make a decision on the spot. b)if you are on the spot, you are in the place where something is happening:  We ought to find out the views of the people on the spot. c)British English if you walk, run, or jump on the spot, you do it staying in the same place, without moving around SYN in place American English:  If running outside doesn’t appeal, try jogging on the spot indoors.6put somebody on the spot to deliberately ask someone a question that is difficult or embarrassing to answer7tv/radio a short period of time when someone can speak or perform on radio or television:  He was given a 30-second spot just after the news. a guest spot on ‘The Tonight Show’8position a position in a list of things or in a competition:  The budget has a regular spot on the agenda.in a spot Manchester United are still in the top spot after today’s win.9weak spot a)a point at which someone or something is not very good:  I carried on with my questions, sensing a weak spot in his story. b)American English if someone has a weak spot for something, they like it very much:  I’ve always had a weak spot for chocolate.10tight spot informal a difficult situation:  This puts the chairman in a very tight spot. I hope you can help get me out of a tight spot.11bright spot something that is good in a bad situation:  The computer industry is the one bright spot in the economy at the moment. The only bright spot of the evening was when the food arrived.12a spot of something British English informal a small amount of something:  Do you fancy a spot of lunch? I’ve been having a spot of bother (=some problems) with my car.13spots of rain British English a few drops of rain:  A few spots of rain began to fall.14five-spot/ten-spot etc American English spoken a piece of paper money worth five dollars, ten dollars etc → beauty spot, blackspot, blind spot, → change your spots at change1(16), → G-spot, → high point/spot at high1(12), → hit the spot at hit1(28), → hot spot, → knock spots off at knock1(19), → be rooted to the spot at root2(5), → have a soft spot for somebody at soft(16), → trouble spot spot1 nounspot2 verbspot3 adjective spotspot2 ●●○ S3 verb (past tense and past participle spotted, present participle spotting) [transitive] Verb Table VERB TABLE spot Simple Form Present I, you, we, they spot he, she, it spots Past I, you, he, she, it, we, they spotted Present perfect I, you, we, they have spotted he, she, it has spotted Past perfect I, you, he, she, it, we, they had spotted Future I, you, he, she, it, we, they will spot Future perfect I, you, he, she, it, we, they will have spotted Continuous Form Present I am spotting he, she, it is spotting you, we, they are spotting Past I, he, she, it was spotting you, we, they were spotting Present perfect I, you, we, they have been spotting he, she, it has been spotting Past perfect I, you, he, she, it, we, they had been spotting Future I, you, he, she, it, we, they will be spotting Future perfect I, you, he, she, it, we, they will have been spotting Examples EXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES A resident spotted a man sitting in his car watching the explosion and notified the police. Drops of milk spotted the table. He was spotted in the Manhattan area in mid-May. I'm glad you spotted the mistake before it was too late. I spotted this article about it in the paper. I dropped my keys in the grass, but luckily Jim spotted them. If you spot Mom and Dad coming, warn me. Police finally caught up with Serrano when he was spotted eating in an Upper East Side restaurant. She quickly spotted the danger of relying on Hal for everything. She won't be difficult to spot -- she's got pink hair and weighs about 300 pounds. They've spotted us - let's get out of here. EXAMPLES FROM THE CORPUS Even people who have been in the business for decades sometimes have trouble spotting impostor curls. If there are many volunteers then spotting them will be like trying to spot a needle in a haystack. If you are lucky, you will also spot a pelican or two. It now appears that much of the change whose initial signs he spotted did in fact reflect a climatic shift. Smith told me later they had spotted Wilson making his way back to Ashley Gardens on foot. Some children spotted the feet sticking out of the bushes by the roadside. Termites are often relatively easy to spot, especially in the early stages. Thesaurus THESAURUS► notice to realize that something is there or that something is happening, because you can see, hear, or feel it: · I noticed that he was rather quiet during dinner.· Children don’t seem to notice the cold.· ‘Julie’s home.’ ‘Yes, I noticed her bicycle outside.’ ► detect to notice something that is difficult to see, hear etc because it is very small, faint, or unclear. Detect is used about people and machines, and is more formal than notice: · X-ray telescopes can now detect virtually every type of astronomical object.· He thought he detected a flicker of interest in her eyes. ► spot to notice something, especially something that is difficult to see or that you see for a short time only. Spot is more informal than notice: · Can you spot the difference between these two pictures?· I’m glad you spotted the mistake before it was too late. ► become aware/conscious to gradually begin to notice that something is happening or is true: · I became aware that Mum was getting a lot older.· Tessa became conscious of a feeling of guilt. ► can tell to be able to notice something because you can see, smell, hear it etc: · I could tell that she had been drinking.· Can you tell I’ve lost weight? ► something/somebody catches your eye used to say that you suddenly notice something or someone because they are interesting, attractive, or good at something: · I saw this shirt in the shop window and it just caught my eye.· Clarke caught the eye of boss Bryan Robson when he scored for Newry last week. ► observe formal to notice something as a result of watching or studying it closely: · Psychologists observed that the mice became more aggressive in smaller cages. ► perceive formal to notice something, especially that something is happening, or is true, or needs to be done: · The company quickly perceived the need for change.· Doctors perceive that they do not have adequate time to spend with their patients. ► witness to see something happen because you are there at the time: · People have witnessed some great economic changes during the last ten years. ► miss to not notice something because it is difficult to see: · It’s easy to miss the entrance – the sign is hidden behind a tree. ► see to notice something with your eyes, usually without planning to. Also used when saying that you watched a particular programme, film, game etc: · Have you seen my keys anywhere?· Did you see the basketball game last night? ► look at somebody/something to keep your eyes pointed toward someone or something, especially someone or something that is not moving: · I looked at the map.· She was looking at him in a strange way. ► notice to see something interesting or unusual: · I noticed a police car outside their house. ► spot to suddenly see something, especially something you are looking for: · Nick spotted the advertisement in the paper. ► catch sight of/catch a glimpse of (also glimpse formal) to suddenly see someone or something for a short time, usually not clearly: · I caught sight of him in the hotel lobby, and followed him out the door.· He glimpsed her face as she went into the courtroom. ► make out somebody/something to see something, but only with difficulty: · Ahead, I could just make out the figure of a woman. ► witness to see something happen, especially a crime or an accident: · The police are asking anyone who witnessed the attack to come forward. ► observe formal to see and pay attention to something: · Officers observed him driving at 100 mph. ► sight especially written to suddenly see something or someone from a long distance, especially when you have been looking for a long time: · The missing boys were sighted by a rescue helicopter.· The crew finally sighted land. Longman Language Activatorto notice someone or something► notice to realize that something is there or that something is happening, when you see it, hear it, or feel it: · "Julie's home." "Yes, I noticed her bicycle outside."· Do you notice anything different about my hair?notice (that): · As she was about to leave, she noticed that the kitchen window was open.· Dominic took a huge slice of cake, hoping no one would notice.· I noticed that he was rather quiet during dinner.notice how/when/where etc: · Did you notice what he was wearing?· She was worried that her boss would notice how long she had been gone.notice somebody doing something: · I was about to leave when I noticed someone coming up the driveway. ► can see/can tell to know that something is true, because you notice signs that show you this: can see/can tell (that): · We could tell that she had been crying.· I can see you're not really enjoying this. ► I see spoken say this to mention something that you have noticed: I see (that): · I see that the new De Niro movie is playing this weekend.· I see you've been working out. ► spot to see something or someone that is difficult to notice, or something or someone that no one else notices: · I'm glad you spotted the mistake before it was too late.· If you spot Mom and Dad coming, warn me.· I dropped my keys in the grass, but luckily Jim spotted them.spot somebody doing something: · Police finally caught up with Serrano when he was spotted eating in an Upper East Side restaurant.difficult/easy to spot: · She won't be difficult to spot -- she's got pink hair and weighs about 300 pounds. ► become aware/conscious to gradually begin to notice something: become aware/conscious (that): · I slowly became aware that I was the only woman in the bar.· He became conscious that everyone in the room had suddenly gotten quiet.become aware/conscious of: · It wasn't until after the game that he became aware of the bruises on his legs.· She became conscious of a growing amount of hostility between them. ► catch somebody's eye if something or someone catches your eye , you notice them and like them because they are interesting, attractive, or unusual: · I was walking through the market when a beautiful dress caught my eye.· Wright caught the eye of filmmaker Spike Lee, who featured him in a jeans commercial. ► detect to notice something that is difficult to see, hear etc, especially because it is very small, faint, or unclear: · Marlowe detected a faint smell of perfume as he entered the room.· She wasn't moving or responding, but he detected a slow heartbeat.· Do I detect a note of sarcasm in your voice?· The system is so sensitive that it can detect changes in temperature as small as 0.003 of a degree. ► note to notice a fact or detail and remember it, because it tells you something about a person or because it might be useful to you in the future: · I noted her habit of looking at the floor whenever I asked her a question.note how/when etc: · He chatted to her, noting how her face reddened every time Ian's name was mentioned.note that: · Note that the compound is more stable at high temperatures.could/can not help but note that: · I couldn't help but note that Jenny doesn't phone or call around to see you anymore.it should be noted that: · It should be noted that the witness did not recognize the defendant. ► observe formal to notice something as a result of watching or studying it closely: · I didn't observe anything out of the ordinary about her behaviour that day.observe that: · Psychologists observed that the mice became more aggressive when they were put in smaller cages. ► perceive formal to notice something, especially something that is difficult to notice: · Although Jane thought her father seemed anxious and uneasy, Susan did not perceive any change in his looks or ways.perceive (that): · The prime minister will only resign if he perceives there is no other way out of the crisis.· If they perceive that a military challenge threatens their country's interests, they will not hesitate to fight. to see someone or something► see · I saw your brother in town this morning.· Have you seen my pen anywhere?· If you see either of these men, inform the police immediately.· Did you see a white van parked out here earlier today?· When did you last see your dog?see somebody doing something · I saw Matt coming out of the cinema with Jane.· I first saw her feeding the ducks in the park.see somebody do something · She saw him get into a Porsche driven by a dark-haired woman.· I didn't see her arrive because I had my back turned.see who/what/where etc · It was too dark for her to see who the woman was.· Have you seen what Jake's done to his bedroom?can see somebody/something · Shh! I can see someone moving in the bushes.see something with your own eyes (=see something or someone yourself, especially something strange or surprising) · 'How do you know it's true?' 'Because I saw it with my own eyes!' ► catch sight of/catch a glimpse of especially written to see someone or something for only a very short time, and not very clearly: · Rick caught sight of the driver's face as the car raced by.· Lynn caught a brief glimpse of herself in the mirror. ► spot to suddenly see someone or something that you have been looking for, or something interesting or unusual: · A resident spotted a man sitting in his car watching the explosion and notified the police.· He was spotted in the Manhattan area in mid-May.· I spotted this article about it in the paper. ► set eyes on also clap eyes on British to see someone or something -- use this either when talking about the time when you first saw them, or when saying strongly that you have never seen them or never want to see them again: · This was the woman he was going to marry -- he knew it the moment he set eyes on her.· I'd never clapped eyes on the guy before in my life.· I hoped we would never set eyes on one another again. ► witness to see something happen, especially an accident, a crime, or an important event: · Police are appealing for information from anyone who witnessed the attack.· The crash was witnessed by millions of viewers who were watching the race on TV. ► sight especially written to suddenly see something or someone from a long distance, especially when you have been looking for a long time: · The missing boys were sighted by a rescue helicopter.· At least ten birds have been sighted feeding on the lake this year.· We sighted a fishing boat in the distance. ► get a look (at) to be able to see someone or something clearly, even though you see them for only a very short time: get a good/proper look (at): · Hold it up to the light so I can get a proper look at it.· I don't think I could identify him. I didn't really get a good look.get a better look (at): · She stood on her toes to get a better look.get a close look (at): · I didn't get a close look at the driver, but I think he was middle-aged.· We drove into the prohibited zone, to get a closer look. ► see first hand also see at first hand British if you see first hand something that is happening, you see it yourself, rather than being told about it by someone else: · Travelling in rural Thailand, I saw first hand the devastating effects of economic reform. · Central News has been to South America to see at first hand the lives that Oxfam hopes to improve. WORD SETS► Sport ace, nounace, verbacrobat, nounacrobatic, adjectiveacrobatics, nounaction replay, nounaerobic, adjectiveaim, nounaim, verball-American, adjectiveall-seater, adjectivearena, nounAstroTurf, nounattack, verbaway, adverbaway, adjectiveback, nounbackhand, nounbackhanded, adjectivebackhander, nounbackspin, nounball, nounball game, nounbaseline, nounbat, nounbench, verbbleachers, nounblock, nounbobble, verbbout, nounbowl, nounbowl, verbbowling alley, nounbowling ball, nounbowling green, nounbox, nounbox, verbboxer, nounbronze, nounbronze medal, nounbye, nouncall, verbcall, nouncap, verbcaptain, nouncaptain, verbcaptaincy, nounchange, verbchanging room, nouncheer, nouncheerleader, nouncheerleading, nounchip, nounchip, verbcircuit training, nounclose season, nounclubhouse, nouncoach, nounconference, nouncontender, nouncourse, nouncourse, verbcourt, nouncover, verbcross, verbcross, nouncross-country, adjectivecrown, nouncup, nouncup final, nouncup tie, nouncurve, noundead, adjectivedecider, noundefence, noundefend, verbdefender, noundefensive, adjectivederby, noundisallow, verbdisqualify, verbdivision, noundivot, noundown, adverbdraft, noundraw, verbdraw, noundribble, verbdribble, noundrive, noundrop, verbdrop goal, noundropkick, noundrop shot, noundrubbing, noundugout, nouneleven, numberequalize, verbequalizer, nouneven, adjectiveevent, nounface, nounfast, adjectivefavourite, nounfeint, nounfield, verbfielder, nounfieldsman, nounfield sports, nounfight, verbfight, nounfighter, nounfinalist, nounfirst half, nounfirst-string, adjectivefixture, nounflat, adjectiveflip, nounfollow-through, nounfootball, nounfootwork, nounform, nounfoul, nounfoul line, nounfriendly, adjectivefull-court press, nounfull time, nounfumble, verbgala, noungame, noungame point, noungate, noungoal, noungoalie, noungoalkeeper, noungoalless, adjectivegoal line, noungoalmouth, noungoalpost, noungoaltender, noungold, noungold medal, noungrand slam, noungrandstand, nounground staff, noungym shoe, noungymslip, nounhalf, nounhalfback, nounhalf nelson, nounhalf-time, nounhammer, nounhandball, nounhand-eye co-ordination, nounhandicap, nounhandspring, nounhandstand, nounhat trick, nounhead start, nounheat, nounheavy, adjectivehiding, nounhome, adjectivein, adverbinfield, nouninjury time, nouninterference, nouninternational, nounjersey, nounjock, nounjockstrap, nounjogging suit, nounjump, nounjump ball, nounjumper, nounjumping jack, nounjump shot, nounjunior varsity, nounlane, nounleague table, nounletter, nounletter, verblevel, verblineman, nounlinesman, nounline-up, nounlocker, nounlocker room, nounluge, nounmallet, nounmanager, nounmark, verbmassacre, nounmassacre, verbmatch, nounmedal, nounmedallist, nounmeeting, nounMexican wave, nounmidfield, nounmisfield, verbmixed doubles, nounmotocross, nounmotor racing, nounmuff, verbmusclebound, adjectivemuscleman, nounnet, nounnet, verbnetball, nounnil, nounno ball, nounoarsman, nounoarswoman, nounobstruction, nounoffense, nounoffensive, adjectiveoffside, adjectiveOlympiad, nounOlympic, adjectiveOlympic Games, the, onside, adjectiveopener, nounopponent, nounout, adverbout, nounoutdistance, verboutsider, nounoverarm, adjectiveoverhand, adjectiveown goal, nounpacesetter, nounpass, verbpass, nounPE, nounpenalty, nounpep rally, nounperiod, nounphoto finish, nounphysical education, nounpitch, nounplace kick, nounplayable, adjectiveplay-by-play, nounplayer, nounplaying field, nounplay-off, nounpoint, nounpole, verbposition, nounpossession, nounpost, nounpreliminary, nounpro-am, nounprofessionalism, nounpromote, verbpromotion, nounPT, nounpull, verbpull-up, nounpummel, verbpunchbag, nounqualifier, nounqualify, verbquarter-final, nounrace, verbracetrack, nounracing, adjectiveracket, nounrain check, nounrally, nounrecord, nounrecord-holder, nounrecreation ground, nounref, nounreferee, nounreferee, verbregatta, nounrelay, nounrelay race, nounrelegate, verbreplay, verbreplay, nounrerun, verbreserve, nounretire, verbreturn, verbrevenge, nounringside, nounroll, nounrookie, nounround, nounround robin, nounrunner, nounrunner-up, nounrun-up, nounsave, verbsave, nounscore, nounscore, verbscorer, nounscratch, verbscratch, adjectivescreen, nounscrimmage, nounselector, nounsemi, nounsemi-final, nounsemi-finalist, nounsemi-professional, adjectiveserve, verbserve, nounserver, nounservice, nounset, nounshoot, verbshoot, nounshot, nounsideline, nounsilver, nounsilver medal, nounskate, nounskipper, nounslaughter, verbslice, verbslick, nounslump, nounsnowmobile, nounsnowshoe, nounsomersault, nounsouthpaw, nounspar, verbsparring partner, nounspectate, verbspectator, nounspectator sport, nounspin, nounsports centre, nounsports day, nounsportsmanship, nounsporty, adjectivespot, verbsprint, verbsquad, nounstadium, nounstagger, verbstart, nounstarter, nounstarting blocks, nounstayer, nounstick, nounstraight, nounstrip, nounstroke, nounstud, nounsub, nounsudden death, nounsweatband, nounsweatpants, nounsweat suit, nountackle, verbtackle, nountalent scout, nountarget, nounteam-mate, nounthree-legged race, nounthrow, nounthrust, verbtie, nountiebreaker, nountight, adjectivetime, verbtimekeeper, nountime out, nountitle, nountitle holder, nountopspin, nountoreador, nountour, nountournament, nountrack, nountrain, verbtransfer fee, nountrophy, nountryout, nounumpire, nounumpire, verbunbeatable, adjectiveundecided, adjectiveunderarm, adverbunderhand, adverbunplaced, adjectiveuppercut, nounvarsity, nounvolley, nounvolley, verbwalking, nounwarm-up, nounwet suit, nounwhippet, nounwhistle, verbwhistle, nounwin, nounwing, nounwinger, nounworkout, nounwristband, noun Collocations COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRY► difficult/easy to spot  Drug addicts are fairly easy to spot. COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES► a spot check (=a quick check of one thing in a group done to obtain information)· They did a spot check on 160 vehicles to see how many passengers were wearing seat belts. ► spot the difference (=see the difference)· It’s easy to spot the difference between real and imitation leather. ► find/spot/notice an error · His accountant spotted several errors in his tax return. ► the exact position/location/spot etc · The satellite pictures showed the enemy’s exact location. ► be glued to the spot British English Sarah was glued to the spot, terrified by the scene in front of her. ► lonely place/road/spot etc ► parking space/place/spot  I couldn’t find a parking space near the shops. ► a picnic spot/place (=a place that is suitable for a picnic)· We found a beautiful picnic spot. ► secluded garden/spot/beach etc  We sunbathed on a small secluded beach. ► make/do/carry out etc spot checks  We carry out spot checks on the vehicles before they leave the depot. ► a tourist destination/centre/spot · Egypt became a popular tourist destination in the nineteenth century. ► a vacation spot (=a place for a vacation)· The island is my favorite vacation spot. COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSADVERB► easily · Each stick has a colour code and infringements are easily spotted.· Perhaps most important, they are not easily spotted by metal detectors or traditional X-ray machines.· Their presence, particularly under a lawn, is betrayed by the worm casts which are easily spotted between the green grass.· They can usually be easily spotted.· You can easily spot morel-mushroom hunters. ► quickly · He will quickly spot things players can and can not do.· Henson quickly spotted another storm toward the north.· Sceptics hunting for flaws in the tax have quickly spotted one potential problem.· Sins are quickly spotted and remedies as quickly prescribes.· The importance of computers is that these arbitrage opportunities can be quickly spotted and capitalised upon.· They were quickly spotted by a police patrol who ushered them off the motorway and down the A41 slip road.· You will quickly spot which plants produce their favourite seeds.· He got the cleaning job as a stop-gap 3 years ago and quickly spotted his chance. NOUN► car · Police spotted the car on Balboa Avenue about 7: 30 a.m.· She spotted his car and raced down the steps in her knee-high suede boots; his heart was pounding.· Policeman Steve Bedford spotted the car as he patrolled Ringwood, Hampshire, and slapped a ticket on the windscreen.· Some lookout he was; he spotted the car when it was almost on top of them.· It was then that I spotted the police car tucked in behind the ambulance.· Which is why he spotted the stationary police car. ► difference · Voice over It's fairly simple to spot the difference between the real thing and a fake.· Many a blindfolded tasting panel has failed to spot the difference between the apple grown without pesticides and that which has.· The trick is to spot the difference.· Most Christians reading the Bible from a New Testament perspective would not spot the difference unless it was pointed out.· The eye perceives differences which the radiometer does not, and in some cases fails to spot differences which the instrument does. ► man · It was here that he spotted two men stealing a truck loaded with aluminium scrap.· A resident spotted a man sitting in a car watching the fire and notified police.· After a 30-minute search, they spotted the man who sold them the tickets.· In another case, two police officers spotted a man cycling without his hands on the handlebars.· The victim was attacked after spotting the men acting suspiciously at 3.25am outside his house in Bracknell, Berks.· The spooky goings-on happened when night watchman James Durham spotted a man with a heavy overcoat walking his black retriever.· Well, a law student might have spotted that a man can not be convicted without the dead body being around. ► mile · Our sportsdesk can spot from a mile off a person who can not tell an in-swinger from a bouncer.· He's a hawkeye, and can spot one a mile off, like that faraway kestrel.· A milkman later spotted the men a mile away - still without a stitch on and clutching their King Edwards.· You can spot the shit a mile away!· Next time the vessel was spotted was 120 miles away in the North Sea off Eyemouth.· I could spot a Fox a mile away.· They could spot him coming a mile away. ► police · The alarm was raised shortly afterwards by a milkman and officers in a passing police car who spotted the smoke and flames.· The veteran police officer had spotted a shadowy figure on the second floor of the complex.· In another case, two police officers spotted a man cycling without his hands on the handlebars.· The high-speed chase began after police spotted the gang with the stolen vehicles at the M1 Woodhall Services near Sheffield. ► sign · As taxpayers we are entitled to know why intelligence services failed to spot signs of an end to the Cold War.· Lifeguards say the calf spotted Monday showed no sign of injury and still had a stubby part of its umbilicus attached.· But as long as you spot the early signs you should be okay - just keep the red bits covered for a few days.· Officers have been visiting stores advising businessmen how to spot the signs of an abuser.· Christopher spotted the sign for Beyazik's Garage when it was still a hundred yards ahead of them. ► talent · And they were not fools: they could spot talent.· It was during one of these that he was spotted by a talent scout and signed up by Warner Brothers. ► top · But she has failed to reach the top spots in the charts recently with songs from follow-up Wishing.· Here are the top three ways to spot if a fireman is gay: 1. ► trouble · Even people who have been in the business for decades sometimes have trouble spotting impostor curls.· Potential new trouble spots to be aware of.· But keeping $ 1 billion-plus cruisers deployed near potential trouble spots takes a lot of people, money and ships.· Other potential trouble spots for Forbes include his refusal to release his personal income tax returns, as Dole has done.· To keep the ships on station for extended times, the Navy would stage these warships near trouble spots continuously. VERB► fail · And if you fail to spot these, a quick glance at the contents of his bookshelf gives it away.· Many a blindfolded tasting panel has failed to spot the difference between the apple grown without pesticides and that which has.· But during the course of the evening, I failed to spot the arrogant monster we've seen in the past.· No, apparently he had a mental disorder that prison medics failed to spot, so it was their fault.· The eye perceives differences which the radiometer does not, and in some cases fails to spot differences which the instrument does. ► try · Armed with powerful telescopes, they're trying to spot a Peregrine Falcon chick, born just two weeks ago.· We must try to spot something on the ground.· At the junction, I paused, eyes flicking from side to side, trying to spot Kevin's contact.· In the early forties, predecessors of Joe McCarthy were snooping around trying to spot Communists in government.· Two men with muddied faces and bracken on their helmets are in a ruined building, trying to spot an enemy rifleman.· If there are many volunteers then spotting them will be like trying to spot a needle in a haystack. Phrases PHRASES FROM THE ENTRY► be spotted with something Clouds were gathering overhead and the windscreen was spotted with rain. East Eleventh and Twelfth Streets are spotted with smallish antique stores. Still joined, the central bone was spotted with gristle and blood. The hardwood floor was spotted with droppings, but still in fine shape. The only doubt concerning whether she would succeed occurred before the tournament began, when she was spotted with a neck brace. The Saint was spotted with the movie star in a New York nightclub in 1998. PHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES► break out in spots/a rash/a sweat etc► bright spot The show has a few bright spots, but is mainly uninspiring. But for every bright spot in the region there was a laggard. But now even those bright spots may be fading. I kept on seeing little bright spots, so I kept on turning my legs. Redland was a bright spot, up 34p at 481p, after figures and the Steetley merger. The money was the one bright spot the evening had produced so far, the carrot to the threat of the stick. The only bright spot was the news that Lewis should be fit to bowl in the final Test. This and our unbelievable performance against Northtown have been the only bright spots in another nightmare week. Yet the South Carolina economy does have bright spots. ► change your spots Agitatedly, it changed its spots from orange to blue to green and, finally, flushed perfectly purple. The leopard did not change its spots, its instincts or its appetites. We are happy to report, therefore, that Jaguar Man appears to have changed his spots. ► come out in spots/a rash etc Tell them you've come out in a rash, or something. ► hit the spot A cold beer sure would hit the spot. The cognac was not quite up to Skipton's fine Napoleonic standards, but it hit the spot with unerring accuracy. ► knock spots off somebody/something It certainly knocks spots off anything attempted by the newly-Thatcherising Conservatives in the run-up to the 1979 election. ► a leopard can’t change its spots► can see/spot/tell something a mile off But I think he's lovely, and you can tell a mile off that he likes you. He's a hawkeye, and can spot one a mile off, like that faraway kestrel. Our sportsdesk can spot from a mile off a person who can not tell an in-swinger from a bouncer. ► be riveted to the spot► rooted to the spot/floor/ground etc Ashi found herself rooted to the spot in disbelief as she watched the threshing legs of her daughter. For a few moments he had felt rooted to the floor and had been unable to move. For a moment, she was rooted to the spot. He stands still, his feet rooted to the ground, his knees locked. He stood rooted to the spot. So startled was he by this sudden onslaught, Ryker momentarily froze, rooted to the spot. Unable to move, Philippa remained rooted to the spot. ► have a soft spot for somebody Although I have a soft spot for him after his super-game Hennessy win, he does not appeal greatly as 7-2 favourite. I do have a soft spot for Britain's best-selling car, the Ford Fiesta. The reason why I have a soft spot for this notebook, he wrote. ► sore point/spot/subject (with somebody) And now she had pierced her again in this sore spot. Finally, there are plans to provide custodians a sore point to enable the churches to open for two hours a day. Graduate entry with resultant opportunities for promotion was then - as now - an especially sore point. It is still a sore point with both grandparents that neither Alice nor Henry have been baptized. The potential restriction of physician income is a major sore point. This is a sore spot with me. Tom gently washed Willie's body again and smoothed witch-hazel on to the sore spots. ► in a tight corner/spot And now here was I in a tight corner and was I going to use violence? Did people in tight corners always turn to her? Drawbacks are the introduction of a bit more slop in the system and the potential for reduced access in tight spots. Eight extra bullets in a tight spot could mean the difference between life and death. However, employers could find themselves in a tight corner if they attempted to increase employee contributions or reduce benefits. Or a mite more forgiving in a tight spot? The better choice here is a crescent-pattern spanner which has angled jaws so that it can be reversed in tight corners. You're in a tight spot. ► weak points/spots Are you naturally more cautious, preferring to test the strength of your enemy before striking at his weak points? He had not dealt with the bishop's weak points nor, according to Hooker, had he carried the audience with him. However, in most of these, effusive approval is showered upon her, and her weak points are minimized. Positive interpretation of weaknesses Be honest about assessing your weak points as well. Scattered in pursuit, they provided perfect weak points for our counterattack. That is why molecular studies designed to find the weak points in the viral attack must continue, Trono said. We examined our weak points, and turned them into strengths. What are his strong and weak points? ► X marks the spot Word family WORD FAMILYadjectivespottedspotlessspottynounspotverbspotadverbspotlessly 1to notice someone or something, especially when they are difficult to see or recognize:  I spotted a police car behind us. It can be hard for even a trained doctor to spot the symptoms of lung cancer.spot somebody doing something Meg spotted someone coming out of the building.difficult/easy to spot Drug addicts are fairly easy to spot.spot that One of the station staff spotted that I was in difficulty, and came to help.► see thesaurus at notice, see2be spotted with something to have small round marks or small pieces of something on the surface:  The windscreen was spotted with rain.3American English to give the other player in a game an advantagespot somebody something He spotted me six points and he still won. spot1 nounspot2 verbspot3 adjective spotspot3 adjective [only before noun] Examples EXAMPLES FROM THE CORPUS All the gold fulfilled maturing forward contracts where the contract price exceeded the spot price. At any moment the current spot exchange rate is the anticipated spot exchange rate discounted to the present. Both the four eye and spot fin have a posterior eye spot. In Tokyo, spot gold was last quoted at $ 400. 25 per ounce. Most of the change in the current spot exchange rate reflects changes in the anticipated spot exchange rate. Collocations COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRY► spot cash  They won’t take credit; they want spot cash. ► spot price  He quoted us a spot price for the goods. COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES► a spot check (=a quick check of one thing in a group done to obtain information)· They did a spot check on 160 vehicles to see how many passengers were wearing seat belts. ► spot the difference (=see the difference)· It’s easy to spot the difference between real and imitation leather. ► find/spot/notice an error · His accountant spotted several errors in his tax return. ► the exact position/location/spot etc · The satellite pictures showed the enemy’s exact location. ► be glued to the spot British English Sarah was glued to the spot, terrified by the scene in front of her. ► lonely place/road/spot etc ► parking space/place/spot  I couldn’t find a parking space near the shops. ► a picnic spot/place (=a place that is suitable for a picnic)· We found a beautiful picnic spot. ► secluded garden/spot/beach etc  We sunbathed on a small secluded beach. ► make/do/carry out etc spot checks  We carry out spot checks on the vehicles before they leave the depot. ► a tourist destination/centre/spot · Egypt became a popular tourist destination in the nineteenth century. ► a vacation spot (=a place for a vacation)· The island is my favorite vacation spot. COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSNOUN► check · But spot checks by the agency have indicated travelers are informed only about two-thirds of the time. ► market · When spot market prices rose, the utilities were unable to increase their rates. ► price · Typically in a declining market, prices gradually shift from contract levels to the spot prices, traders said.· All the gold fulfilled maturing forward contracts where the contract price exceeded the spot price. Phrases PHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES► break out in spots/a rash/a sweat etc► bright spot The show has a few bright spots, but is mainly uninspiring. But for every bright spot in the region there was a laggard. But now even those bright spots may be fading. I kept on seeing little bright spots, so I kept on turning my legs. Redland was a bright spot, up 34p at 481p, after figures and the Steetley merger. The money was the one bright spot the evening had produced so far, the carrot to the threat of the stick. The only bright spot was the news that Lewis should be fit to bowl in the final Test. This and our unbelievable performance against Northtown have been the only bright spots in another nightmare week. Yet the South Carolina economy does have bright spots. ► change your spots Agitatedly, it changed its spots from orange to blue to green and, finally, flushed perfectly purple. The leopard did not change its spots, its instincts or its appetites. We are happy to report, therefore, that Jaguar Man appears to have changed his spots. ► come out in spots/a rash etc Tell them you've come out in a rash, or something. ► hit the spot A cold beer sure would hit the spot. The cognac was not quite up to Skipton's fine Napoleonic standards, but it hit the spot with unerring accuracy. ► knock spots off somebody/something It certainly knocks spots off anything attempted by the newly-Thatcherising Conservatives in the run-up to the 1979 election. ► a leopard can’t change its spots► can see/spot/tell something a mile off But I think he's lovely, and you can tell a mile off that he likes you. He's a hawkeye, and can spot one a mile off, like that faraway kestrel. Our sportsdesk can spot from a mile off a person who can not tell an in-swinger from a bouncer. ► be riveted to the spot► rooted to the spot/floor/ground etc Ashi found herself rooted to the spot in disbelief as she watched the threshing legs of her daughter. For a few moments he had felt rooted to the floor and had been unable to move. For a moment, she was rooted to the spot. He stands still, his feet rooted to the ground, his knees locked. He stood rooted to the spot. So startled was he by this sudden onslaught, Ryker momentarily froze, rooted to the spot. Unable to move, Philippa remained rooted to the spot. ► have a soft spot for somebody Although I have a soft spot for him after his super-game Hennessy win, he does not appeal greatly as 7-2 favourite. I do have a soft spot for Britain's best-selling car, the Ford Fiesta. The reason why I have a soft spot for this notebook, he wrote. ► sore point/spot/subject (with somebody) And now she had pierced her again in this sore spot. Finally, there are plans to provide custodians a sore point to enable the churches to open for two hours a day. Graduate entry with resultant opportunities for promotion was then - as now - an especially sore point. It is still a sore point with both grandparents that neither Alice nor Henry have been baptized. The potential restriction of physician income is a major sore point. This is a sore spot with me. Tom gently washed Willie's body again and smoothed witch-hazel on to the sore spots. ► in a tight corner/spot And now here was I in a tight corner and was I going to use violence? Did people in tight corners always turn to her? Drawbacks are the introduction of a bit more slop in the system and the potential for reduced access in tight spots. Eight extra bullets in a tight spot could mean the difference between life and death. However, employers could find themselves in a tight corner if they attempted to increase employee contributions or reduce benefits. Or a mite more forgiving in a tight spot? The better choice here is a crescent-pattern spanner which has angled jaws so that it can be reversed in tight corners. You're in a tight spot. ► weak points/spots Are you naturally more cautious, preferring to test the strength of your enemy before striking at his weak points? He had not dealt with the bishop's weak points nor, according to Hooker, had he carried the audience with him. However, in most of these, effusive approval is showered upon her, and her weak points are minimized. Positive interpretation of weaknesses Be honest about assessing your weak points as well. Scattered in pursuit, they provided perfect weak points for our counterattack. That is why molecular studies designed to find the weak points in the viral attack must continue, Trono said. We examined our weak points, and turned them into strengths. What are his strong and weak points? ► X marks the spot for buying or paying immediately, not at some future time:  They won’t take credit; they want spot cash. He quoted us a spot price for the goods.
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