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单词 light
释义
light1 nounlight2 adjectivelight3 verblight4 adverb
lightlight1 /laɪt/ ●●● S1 W1 noun Entry menu
MENU FOR lightlight1 natural/artificial light2 lamp/electric light etc3 traffic control4 on a vehicle5 first light6 be/stand in somebody’s light7 for a cigarette8 in somebody’s eyes9 set light to something10 come to light/be brought to light11 throw/shed/cast light on something12 in the light of something13 in a new/different/bad etc light14 see the light15 see the light (of day)16 light at the end of the tunnel17 have your name in lights18 go/be out like a light19 a leading light in/of something20 the light of somebody’s life21 window
Word Origin
WORD ORIGINlight1
Origin:
Old English leoht
Examples
EXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
  • Light was coming into the room through a crack in the door.
  • a gas lamp that gives as much light as a 100 watt bulb
  • a sudden flash of blinding light
  • In the fading light she could just make out the shape of a tractor.
  • She sat reading by the light of the fire.
  • That light's really bright.
  • The light isn't good enough to take a photograph.
  • The light was fading, and I was afraid we wouldn't be home before dark.
  • The 5-inch model of the starship came complete with blinking lights.
  • the cold blue light of the Arctic
  • The valley was bathed in the soft light of dawn.
  • We could see light coming from under the door.
EXAMPLES FROM THE CORPUS
  • He switched on the light, opened the door, and went into the dim public space.
  • He switched the light on and looked at the clock.
  • Just then, the street lights come on.
  • The blaze of lights in the evening was part of it, and the singing and shivering the rails made.
  • The speed of light through our apparatus should vary as the speed of the relative ether current varies.
  • This can be put in its least intuitively reasonable light if we assume just two firms.
  • You will be aware that normally, of course, reflected light is of the same color as incident light.
Thesaurus
THESAURUS
something that produces light, especially electric light, to help you to see: · She switched the kitchen light on.· The lights in the house were all off.
an object that produces light by using electricity, oil, or gas – often used in names of lights: · a bedside lamp· a street lamp· a desk lamp· a table lamp· an old oil lamp· a paraffin lamp
a lamp that you can carry, consisting of a metal container with glass sides that surrounds a flame or light: · The miners used lanterns which were lit by candles.
British English, flashlight American English a small electric lamp that you carry in your hand: · We shone our torches around the cavern.
a stick of wax with a string through the middle, which you burn to give light: · The restaurant was lit by candles.
the glass part of an electric light, that the light shines from: · a 100 watt bulb· an energy-saving light bulb
on a car
(also headlamp) one of the two large lights at the front of a vehicle: · It was getting dark so she switched the headlights on.
British English, parking light American English one of the two small lights next to the main lights, at the front and back of a car
one of the two red lights at the back of a vehicle
British English, turn signal American English one of the lights on a car that flash to show which way the car is turning
Longman Language Activatorlight from the sun, a fire, an electric light etc
· Light was coming into the room through a crack in the door.· a gas lamp that gives as much light as a 100 watt bulbthe light (=the amount of natural light in a place) · The light was fading, and I was afraid we wouldn't be home before dark.good/strong/bright light · The light isn't good enough to take a photograph.poor/dim/fading light · In the fading light she could just make out the shape of a tractor.soft/warm light · The valley was bathed in the soft light of dawn.cold/harsh light · the cold blue light of the Arcticblinding/dazzling light (=very strong light that hurts your eyes) · a sudden flash of blinding lightby the light of the moon/the fire/a candle (=with only the moon etc to give light) · She sat reading by the light of the fire.
spoken use this to say that there is natural daylight, so that you can see easily enough to do something: · Let's go now while it's still light.· It's not light enough to play outside.
the natural light of day: in daylight: · I'd like to look at the house again in daylight.daylight hours (=the time when it is light): · The park is open during daylight hours.
the light from the sun: · Her long blonde hair was shining in the sunlight.· We emerged from the dark forest into the sunlight. direct sunlight: · Keep the plant out of direct sunlight.
the light from the moon: · The trees looked strangely white in the moonlight.· Moonlight came in through the curtains, lighting up the children's sleeping faces.
a very bright and unpleasant light that makes you want to close your eyes or turn your head away: glare of: · the glare of the car's headlights· The heat and glare of the furnace is immense.
a soft pleasant light, especially from something that is burning: · Candles give a warm glow to the room.glow of: · the orange glow of the sunset
a line of light shining from something such as a lamp: · We could see the beams of searchlights scanning the sky.beam of light: · Maggie stumbled across the field with only a narrow beam of light from her flashlight to help her.
a line of light, especially one shining from the sun: · Use a sunscreen to protect your skin against the sun's harmful rays.· The first rays of the sun pierced the canopy of leaves above us, and the forest began to wake up.
to make a place light
to shine lights on a place so that people can see it well, or so that it looks attractive: light up something/light something up: · Fireworks lit up the night sky.· Their garden was lit up by dozens of coloured lamps.
to put lights in a place so that people can see what is happening there: · What are you going to use to light the stage?be lit by/with something: · The room was lit by dozens of candles.
to turn or press a control to make an electric light produce light: · Can you put the light on? I can't see anything!· When I turned on the light, I realized the room was in chaos.
to make a place light or shine light on something so that you can see it, especially in order to draw attention to something: illuminate something: · Small lights illuminate different points on the map.· The blazing fire illuminated the china ornaments above the hearth.be illuminated by/with something: · A small path was illuminated by low orange lamps concealed in the flower beds.
when the lights in a place are on
· Although the lights were on, nobody answered the door.· The lights are still on in a couple of the offices.
if a room, house, building etc is lit up , the lights are on inside or outside: · People were getting ready for dinner, and the house was all lit up.· In the town centre, the streets are all lit up for Christmas.be lit up by/with: · The mosque is lit up by floodlights at night.
if a place or set of lights is ablaze , there is a lot of bright light because all the lights are turned on - used especially in literature: · The yacht passed us, its cabin lights ablaze.ablaze with: · Every shop window is ablaze with bright Christmas lights.
not heavy
· You can carry this bag -- it's fairly light.· Modern tennis rackets are much lighter than old-fashioned wooden ones.· Heat rises because hot air is lighter than cold air.light as a feather (=extremely light) · She was light as a feather to carry, and her hands were cold as ice.
lightweight clothes, materials, or equipment are specially made so that they weigh very little: · a lightweight summer suit· a strong, lightweight material such as titanium· Today's baby buggies are lightweight, compact, and easy to fold.
if someone or something is weightless , they seem to weigh much less than usual, especially because they are floating in space or water: · Astronauts have problems moving around in the spacecraft because they are virtually weightless.
to make something lighter
· They had taken out all the drawers to make it lighter, before carrying it down the stairs.· Many parts are now made from plastic instead of steel, making cars lighter and more fuel-efficient.
to make something lighter, especially in order to make it easier to move or carry: · I'm sure you could lighten that suitcase a little if you only packed what you need.lighten the load: · As weather conditions got worse, Watts and Peters abandoned their photographic equipment in order to lighten the load.
to become dark
when it gets dark , the sky becomes dark, usually because it is night: · It was getting dark, and we were worried that we wouldn't make it back to the village before nightfall. · When we were camping we used to go to sleep as soon as it got dark.· It's getting very dark out there -- there's going to be a storm.
if natural light fades , it gradually becomes weaker, because night is coming: · The light slowly began to fade and the trees became mere shadows.· I want to take some photographs before the light fades.
if the sky darkens , it gradually becomes darker than before, often because of bad weather: · In a few minutes the sky darkened and heavy rain began to fall.· We walked along the shore as the sun's last rays winked over the darkening sea, then headed for home.
: night/evening/darkness falls use this especially in stories to say that the night begins and it becomes dark: · We got back home just as night was falling.· Darkness fell on the town and the streetlights came on one by one.
if a room, building etc is plunged into darkness it is suddenly made dark because all the lights have been turned off: · Suddenly the light went out and the narrow stairs were plunged into darkness.· Lightning struck the power lines, plunging half the city into darkness.
to explain something
to give someone the information they need to understand something: · It's not so complicated - let me explain.· We listened carefully while Pam explained the process.· Let me show you - it's too difficult to explain.explain something to somebody: · If you don't get the joke, I'll explain it to you later.· Could you explain the rules of the game to me, please?explain how/what/why etc: · Can you explain what the poem means?· The doctor explained how the clinic operates.
especially spoken to explain to someone how something works or how to do something: tell somebody how/what/why etc: · Can you tell me how to log on to the Internet?· The leaflet tells you what to do if you get malaria.
spoken to explain the reasons for something or give detailed information about something: · He didn't say where he was going or who he was going with.· Did Caroline say why she needed the tape recorder?
to explain to someone how to do something by doing it while they watch you: · "How do you change the speed of the drill?" "Let me show you."show somebody something: · I'll show you an easier way to get down from there.show somebody how to do something: · Can you show me how to use your camera?show somebody what to do: · If you show him what to do, I'm sure he'll do a good job.
to show someone how to do something by doing it while they watch you, especially when it is your job to show people how to do things: · The ski instructor began by demonstrating the correct way to turn.· If you still don't understand, Marcia will be happy to demonstrate.demonstrate how: · A trainer came in to demonstrate how the new computer system worked.
to explain all the details about something in the right order, to help someone understand it: · I'll go through the instructions once more in case you missed anything.· If you stay after class, I'll go through the theory with you again.
written to provide new information which makes something easier to understand, especially something which has been studied, but which is still not well understood: · These discoveries may shed light on the origins of the universe.· Scientists working in the Gobi desert have thrown new light on the life of dinosaurs.
to explain facts, arguments, reasons etc by stating them clearly and in a carefully planned order: set out something: · She set out the reasons for her resignation in a confidential letter to her boss.· The Republicans' goals for the year are clearly set out in the party platform.set something out: · The facts, as you have set them out, seem convincing enough.
when something is found out
if something that people knew nothing about comes out , people find out about it, especially as a result of an official inquiry: · The truth about the scandal came out long after he had left office.· A few new facts came out at the trial.it comes out that: · During the hearing it came out that she had tried to commit suicide.
if new information or a new fact comes to light or is brought to light , people find out about it: · Fresh evidence has come to light since the report was published.· Some serious problems have been brought to light by the latest report on health and safety.it comes to light that/it is brought to light that: · It came to light that the CIA knew he was a security risk.
if facts emerge from a meeting or an inquiry, people find out about them: · More details of the plan emerged at yesterday's meeting.it emerges that: · During the court case it emerged that both men had convictions for terrorist offences.
if someone within a government or organization leaks official information, they secretly tell the public or a newspaper about it: · Someone at the Pentagon leaked a letter from the Secretary of Defense.· Information on the merger had been leaked to the press.
if a piece of information gets out , people find out about it even though other people have tried very hard to keep it secret: · If any of this gets out, we'll be in serious trouble.word/news etc gets out: · If word gets out that Jordan is here, we'll be mobbed.it gets out that: · If it gets out that we knew about this, we'll lose all our clients.
formal if it transpires that something is true, people find out that it is true: · It now transpires that the prime minister knew about the deal all along.
making you feel more hope
· The fact that the two sides have agreed to hold negotiations is an extremely hopeful sign.look hopeful · Things might get better, but it isn't looking very hopeful right now.sound hopeful · At the interview they told me I was "the right sort of person'. I thought that sounded kind of hopeful.
making you feel more confident and hopeful: · The doctor had some encouraging news -- I would soon be able to walk again.· There are one or two more encouraging signs in the economy now.· So far the results of our tests have been very encouraging.
seeming likely to be good or successful: · The future looks promising for British companies abroad.· The weather outlook for the weekend isn't very promising.· My grandfather gave up a promising career in law to fight for his country.
if something such as a new situation or discovery offers hope , it makes it possible for people to feel more hopeful that a bad situation will improve: offer hope to: · The new treatment may offer hope to thousands of cancer patients.offer hope of: · A recent UN initiative seems to offer some hope of a lasting peace settlement in the region.
to make people more confident than before that what they are hoping for will happen: raise hopes that: · The latest news has raised hopes that another Western hostage might soon be released.raise somebody's hopes: · Speculation in the press about tax cuts has raised everyone's hopes.
formal making people hopeful that good things will happen: · The baseball season got off to an auspicious start with two good wins for the Tokyo Giants.· It is my honour to toast the bride and groom on this auspicious occasion.
something good that gives you hope that a long and difficult period is going to end soon: · For Jane there is some light at the end of the tunnel, but many anorexia sufferers continue to suffer in silence.see the light at the end of the tunnel (=realize that there is hope): · After all the problems we've had we're finally beginning to see some light at the end of the tunnel.
something that gives you a small reason to hope that a bad situation will improve: · The news gave a glimmer of hope that Michael might be released from prison early.· The one ray of hope seemed to be the possibility that the enemy would call off their attack because of the weather.
to start sleeping
· Are you two going to stop talking and go to sleep?· I looked over at Dave, but he had gone to sleep.· He lay on the sofa and pretended to go to sleep.go back to sleep (=go to sleep again after waking up) · If I wake up in the night, it takes me ages to go back to sleep.
to go to sleep - use this especially when you do not intend to, when you go to sleep quickly, or when going to sleep has been difficult: · Dad always falls asleep in front of the TV after Sunday lunch.· Has Monica fallen asleep yet?· I must have fallen asleep with the light on last night.fall asleep at the wheel (=while you are driving): · One in seven road accidents is caused by drivers falling asleep at the wheel.
to go to sleep when you do not intend to and sleep lightly for a short time: · Sorry, I must have dozed off for a few minutes.· I was just beginning to doze off when the telephone rang.
to go to sleep easily and peacefully: · At around 12.30, she did eventually drop off for an hour or so.· She kept dropping off for a few minutes, before waking with a start.drop off to sleep: · Janir had dropped off to sleep on the living room couch.
to go to sleep when you are sitting down, especially when you are trying hard to stay awake: · Sarah had almost nodded off when Victor suddenly spoke.· As the speaker droned on, only the occasional nudge from my husband kept me from nodding off.
to go to sleep gradually: · He must have drifted off again, for when he awoke, the train had come to a halt.· She was just starting to drift off, when she heard a scream downstairs.drift off to sleep: · That night as he drifted off to sleep, Quincy tried to imagine what the day would have been like if Marta had been there.
British if someone, especially a baby, is off , they have started sleeping: · Is the baby off yet?· I always wait until he's off before I turn the light out.
informal to go to sleep very quickly and deeply because you are very tired: · I went back to bed, and was out like a light.· After a day on the ranch, you'll be out like a light, I can tell you.
informal to fall asleep very quickly, especially in a place where you do not normally sleep: · "Did you get any sleep last night?" "Yeah, I crashed out as soon as my head hit the pillow."· He'd flaked out on my bed.
to light a cigarette, pipe etc
to make a cigarette, cigar, or pipe start burning: · The old man struck a match and lit his pipe.· I leaned forward to light her cigarette.
to light a cigarette, pipe etc for yourself: · They're not allowed to smoke at work, so they all light up as soon as they leave.· She lit up another cigarette.
to give someone a match or let them use your lighter so that they can light their cigarette: · Give us a light, will you?· Henry will give you a light.
British /do you have a light? American spoken say this to ask someone for a match or a lighter to light your cigarette: · Excuse me, do you have a light?
WORD SETS
AC, accessory, nounadapter, nounaerosol, nounalarm, nounarm, nounash, nounattaché case, nounbag, nounbar, nounbarrel, nounbeep, verbbeeswax, nounbell, nounbelly, nounbelt, nounbench, nounbenzine, nounbinding, nounbiro, nounbolt, nounbooth, nounbox, nounbox, verbbrad, nounbriefcase, nounbristle, nounbrolly, nounbrush, nounbucket, nounbuckle, nounbuffer, nounbulb, nounBulldog clip, nounbulletin board, nounbullhorn, nounbung, nounbunting, nounbusiness card, nounbutt, nounbutton, nounbuzzer, nouncable, nouncalling card, nouncan, nouncandle, nouncane, nouncarbon, nouncarbon copy, nouncarbon paper, nouncard, nouncardboard, nouncardboard, adjectivecardboard cut-out, nouncard catalog, nouncarrier, nouncarrier bag, nouncarryall, nouncart, nouncarton, nouncartridge, nouncase, nouncaster, nouncatch, nounCellophane, nouncesspit, nounchain, nounchalice, nounchannel, nounchart, nounchute, nouncitronella, nounclamp, nouncleat, nounclip, nounclipboard, nouncomb, nouncombination lock, nouncompartment, nouncord, nouncrank, nouncrate, nouncrepe paper, nouncycle, noundetector, noundial, noundigital, adjectivedisposable, adjectivedrape, verbdrawing pin, noundryer, noundurable goods, nounDurex, nounearplug, nounelastic band, nouneraser, nouneyelet, nounfabric, nounfelt-tip pen, nounfemale, adjectivefence, nounfiberglass, nounfibreglass, nounfigurine, nounfilament, nounfile, verbFilofax, nounfire extinguisher, nounfirewood, nounfitness, nounflag, nounflagon, nounflagstaff, nounflashlight, nounflat, adjectivefloodlight, nounfoam, nounfoam, verbfog, verbfolder, nounfoolscap, nounforecourt, nounfountain, nounfountain pen, nounframe, nounfunnel, nounfuse, noungadget, noungadgetry, noungargle, verbgas, nounglue, noungoggles, noungold card, noungranny knot, noungravel, noungravelled, adjectivegravelly, adjectivegrease, noungreetings card, noungrommet, noungum, noungun, noungunnysack, noungut, nounhand-held, adjectivehandle, nounhandloom, nounharness, nounhasp, nounhealth, nounhessian, nounhinge, nounhip, nounhoarding, nounhoist, nounholder, nounhook, nounhoop, nounhooter, nounhose, nounhosepipe, nounhub, nounhygiene, nounhygienic, adjectiveillness, nounindented, adjectiveinflatable, adjectiveingrained, adjectiveink, nouninn, nouninnkeeper, nouninsoluble, adjectiveivory, nounjacket, nounjack-knife, nounjoss stick, nounjuggle, verbkey, nounkeypad, nounkey ring, nounKleenex, nounknife, nounknob, nounlabel, nounladder, nounlantern, nounlatch, nounlatchkey, nounlather, nounlather, verbLCD, nounlead, nounlectern, nounlegal pad, nounlens, nounletterbox, nounlever, nounlibrary, nounlid, nounlidded, adjectivelift, nounlight, nounlight bulb, nounlink, nounlinseed oil, nounlitter bin, nounlock, nounlodestone, nounlog, nounloop, verblost property, nounmagnet, nounmagnetic, adjectivemagnifying glass, nounmale, adjectivemantle, nounmanual, adjectivemarker, nounmarker pen, nounmarket day, nounmast, nounmastic, nounmatchstick, nounmaterial, nounmeter, nounmeths, nounmode, nounmortar, nounmortise lock, nounmould, nounmounting, nounmovement, nounnail, nounnameplate, nounnet, nounnib, nounnipple, nounnon-standard, adjectivenoose, nounnotebook, nounnotepad, nounnoticeboard, nounnozzle, nounnut, nounoil, verboilcan, nounoily, adjectiveorb, nounoutfit, nounoutlet, nounovernight, adverbpack, verbpackage, nounpad, nounpad, verbpadlock, nounpaintwork, nounpantyliner, nounpaper, nounpaperclip, nounpasserby, nounpaste, verbpasteboard, nounpatron, nounpatronage, nounpatronize, verbpattern, nounpaving, nounpearl, nounpen, nounpenknife, nounpicket fence, nounpillbox, nounpince-nez, nounpinhead, nounpipe, nounpix, nounpizza parlor, nounplug, nounpocket, nounpocketbook, nounpocket calculator, nounpocket knife, nounpointer, nounpoison, nounpole, nounportfolio, nounPost-it, nounpowder, nounpowdered, adjectivepropellant, nounpropelling pencil, nounpump-action, adjectivePX, nounquarter, verbrack, nounreceptionist, nounreel, nounrefill, nounreflector, nounrefrigerate, verbregimen, nounreservation, nounreserve, verbsachet, nounsack, nounscratchpad, nounscratch paper, nounscreen, nounsealant, nounsealer, nounsearchlight, nounseason ticket, nounseat, nounself-assembly, adjectiveseptic tank, nounservice, nounservice, verbsetting, nounshade, nounsharpener, nounshovel, nounshovel, verbshovelful, nounsilver paper, nounsiphon, nounslat, nounslice, verbslot machine, nounslug, nounsmoke, nounsoot, nounsort, nounspare part, nounspigot, nounsponge, nounspool, nounspout, nounspray, nounspray can, nounspray paint, nounspring, nounstaff, nounstake, nounstalk, nounstandard, nounstaple, nounstapler, nounstationery, nounsteam, nounsteam clean, verbsteel, nounsteel wool, nounstepladder, nounstick, verbstick, nounsticker, nounstilt, nounstopper, nounstorm lantern, nounstrap, nounstreamer, nounstring, nounstub, nounsucker, nounSuperglue, nounswipe, verbswitch, nounswivel, nountab, nountack, nountag, nountag, verbtank, nountap, nountape, nountassel, nountattle, verbtea break, nounthong, nounthread, nountime-saving, adjectivetinder, nountinderbox, nountissue, nountop, nountote bag, nountowel, verbtray, nountrolley, nountube, nountubing, nountwine, nountwo-way mirror, nounumbrella, nounvent, nounvial, nounwaiting room, nounwasher, nounwaste paper, nounwatch, nounwaterspout, nounwheeled, adjectivewhistle, verbwooden, adjectivewriting paper, noun
Collocations
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRYADJECTIVES/NOUN + light
· The light was so bright he had to shut his eyes.
(=extremely bright)· The white buildings reflected a blinding light.
(=not bright)· Gradually her eyes became accustomed to the dim light.
(=bright enough)· Stand over here where the light is good.
(=not bright enough)· The light was too poor for me to read.
(=light that seems slightly yellow or orange)· the soft light of the candles
(=light that seems slightly blue)· the cold light of the moon
· The flowers glowed brightly in the morning light.
(=light produced by the sun)· The only natural light came from two high windows.
(=light produced by lamps)· The office was windowless, lit only by artificial light.
verbs
· The light from the streetlamp shone through the curtains.
· The only light came from the fire.
(=a large amount of light comes in)· Light streamed in through the window.
· The light fell on her book.
formal (=makes it bright or able to be seen)· The light from the screen illuminated the people gathered round it.
(=it is getting darker as the sun is going down)
(also emit light technical)· the light produced by the sun
(=send light onto something)· the gold circle of light cast by the lamp
· Snow reflects a lot of light.
literary (=something has a lot of light shining on it)· The fields and woods were bathed in golden light.
phrases
(=a thin line of light)· There was a shaft of light from the doorway.
(=a bright light that appears suddenly for a very short time)· A flash of light caught his attention.
(=an area of light)· They stood in the pool of light cast by the streetlamp.
COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES
 This design is light years ahead (=much more advanced) in performance and comfort.
 All the hotel’s bedrooms are light and airy.
· Energy is being wasted by using artificial lighting when daylight is adequate.
especially American English (=lower in alcohol or calories than normal beer)· He claims light beer has no flavor.
 the desert with its strange twisted plants and its blinding light
 a dark blue raincoat
· She ate a light breakfast of toast and coffee.
· The curtains lifted in the light breeze.
 She closed her eyes against the brilliant light.
· a light brown jacket
· She lit a candle in the church.
· A procession moved through the village carrying lighted candles.
(=lights in the streets at Christmas, or on the Christmas tree)· We went to see the Christmas lights in New York.
· Will went outside and lit a cigarette.
· Someone dropped a lit cigarette and started the fire.
(=something that produces a flame for lighting cigarettes)· Does anyone have a match or a cigarette lighter?
(=made from thin materials)· You’ll only need light clothing during the day.
· She was wearing a heavy coat and a thick scarf.
(=not dark or strong)· Light colours make a room look larger.
(=about subjects that are not very serious)· He is clearly talented at light comedy.
· a thin cotton dress
(=with only candles for lighting)· Chris treated his girlfriend to a candle-lit dinner.
(=not involving hard physical work)· He'd been wounded, sent home and put on light duties.
 the heat from a small electric fire
(=shows etc that are funny and easy to understand rather than serious)· He believes that children can appreciate more than just light entertainment.
(=not involving too much physical effort)· Try to do some gentle exercise as part of your daily routine.
(=become excited)· His eyes lit up when I mentioned the word money.
(=they start to look happy)· Denise’s face lit up when she heard the news.
 the faint light of dawn
· It was too damp to light a fire.
 the glaring light of high noon
 a dark green dress
 dark grey trousers
(=feeling happy)· Paul left for home with a light heart.
(=industries that involve the production of small goods)· Jobs in light industry are increasing.
· Elizabeth lit the lamps and started rebuilding the fire.
· Lightning lit up the room briefly.
(=not much or a lot of work) Hans has a heavy teaching load this semester.
(=a small lunch)· After a light lunch, he would take a nap each afternoon.
(=with not a lot of food)· a light meal of salad
· A fine mist began to settle on the water.
· The clouds blocked out the light of the moon.
· the warmth of the morning sun
(=ones that use neon) the neon lights of Las Vegas
· 2,000 barrels of heavy oil are produced a day.· The oil corporation announced the discovery of another field of light oil.
 The article painted him in a bad light (=described him in a way that made him seem bad).
(=with many or few people voting)
(=see or present something as good)· If you spend a year travelling after school, employers often see this in a positive light.· The merger was presented to the world in a positive light.
· The punishment seemed very light.
(=with little water coming down)· A light rain began to fall.
 a bit of light reading (=things that are easy and enjoyable to read) for my holiday
 light-sensitive photographic paper
(=a short time in prison)· We’re hoping that he gets off with a light sentence.
(=a sleep from which you can easily be woken)· I fell into a light sleep.
(=someone who wakes easily)
 Drinks and light snacks are served at the bar.
(=when only a small amount falls)· A light snow had begun to fall.
(=containing a lot of sand)· Some plants prefer sandy soils.
(=something that produces light)· The statue is illuminated by a hidden light source.
· It was getting dark, and the street lamps were already on.
· He reached for the light switch.
· There was a gentle tap on the door.
(=a lot of trading or a little trading) Shares dropped 10% in heavy trading.
· The traffic is fairly light at this time of day.
(=not take many things with you)· The idea was to travel light, so Travis allowed her to pack only one change of clothing.
 At first he thought someone was coming towards him, but it was just a trick of the light.
(=someone who uses something only a little)· Light users of the service will receive a reduction in their bill.
 the sun's harmful UV rays
 poems in a lighter vein
 Two thousand demonstrators held a candle-lit vigil outside the embassy.
· Red warning lights were flashing.
 He had only a weak light to see by.
(=not strong)· Winds tomorrow will be light.
(=without a lot of alcohol)· The wine is light and refreshing.
(=work that is not physically hard)· He had been ill, but she found him some light work to do.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSADJECTIVE
· Few people have not woken to the sounds of the dawn chorus nor seen moths drawn to artificial lights as daylight fades.· It should be cultivated in moderately diffused or artificial light.· Official sketches show a small warren of rooms, lit by artificial lights and stuffed with compact biological systems.· Among these is James Casebere, who photographs miniature architectural constructions in artificial light.· Their facial features are indistinguishable, brightly lit though they are by harsh artificial lights.· The algae were cultivated under artificial light.· The room is safe, enclosed, protected from the harsh glare of artificial light.
· I've seen him at a distance, I've seen him in bad light.· In an effort to restrain himself, he tried to imagine things in the worst possible light.· They perch too far away in bad light.· Middlesex forfeited their first innings and Durham were 11 without loss in their second innings when bad light ended play.· Another break for bad light gave the fast men a breather.· Leapor places all of these concerns in the worst possible light.· The Wednesday result shouldn't be considered in too bad a light.· Rain and bad light brought several interruptions, made batting difficult, and took the game into a second day.
· Under bright overhead lights at one end of the shed a chair had been positioned, banked on three sides by sandbags.· The double glazing had a metal layer that helped to create the reflective view from outside and cut down bright light inside.· He crept to the door and opened it, blinking at the bright light.· Keep the plant in bright light.· Zen was sitting on a stool under a bright light in a small white-curtained cubicle, thinking about Trotsky and the ice-man.· My only wish is that the bright lights were dimmed a bit for the dinner crowd.· Some absorb the gas quickly, whereas others circulate it slowly and can not respond to floods of bright light.· Photophobic children are often recommended to wear dark or tinted glasses to ease the discomfort caused by bright light.
· As I climb, I think of the butterflies, the dreams of the holy men, fluttering in a brilliant light.· And then there was a brilliant light and the Beast turned into a handsome prince.· Within the box, suspended at its centre, glows a point of brilliant, pale-blue light.· It casts a brilliant light on everyone around him.· I awoke next morning to a brilliant pearly light, but when I went to the window, no sea was visible.· I would be washed clean by the brilliant blue light, by the warm, golden sun.· Beams of brilliant light jerked across the far wall and, slowly, the bars began to char.· Over 20, 000 residents are awakened by a brilliant flash of light and heat to find their city in flames.
· The cold green fluorescent lights are blazing, and Kim is at work taping ankles.· The red maples have just shed their seeds, and two species of fireflies flash their cold white lights on warm evenings.· Then they unrolled as a silver-white fleece, under the silent cold light of the moon.· Through the frosted window blazed the cold light of winter morning; sidelight, the most harsh.· A cold grey light made its way round the corners of the curtains and trickled into the room.· He switched off his lamp to watch the cold, silver light settle over the church and headstones.
· It makes you think about those sullen high schoolers in a different light, see their lives along a time line.· The girls regarded it in a different light.· They get to see women in a different light.· The Dark Elves see Khaine in a different light.· The officer was city-bred and educated, so that the false teeth appeared to him in a different light.· I view parallels to Piggy and Simon in a different light.· It involves reflecting light of a quite different color-invisible light in the form of X ray radiation-off certain crystals.
· Flickering beams of dim light came with it, caressing the machinery which shielded their source from direct view.· Only a dim light glowed in the direction of the stairs.· Looking at him in the dim light I saw he was clad only in vest and pants.· No one dared to object to him directly about his dim light, though some people grumbled about it in loud whispers.· There were only two dim lights flickering from two iron brackets high up on the wall.· They sat at the table in dim light going over pronunciations.· The two men looked at each other in the dim light, their faces grey and weary.· Not so beautiful by day, perhaps, but in dim light they look like movie stars.
· The electric light was an invention with profound existential consequences.· There were electric lights burning at the entryway.· There is no electric light, and the floor is compacted earth.· I let out an involuntary gasp. Electric lights sprang on all over the ceiling in an irregular pattern.· A moment later, all the electric lights went out.· Travellers very often notice that electric light and trams are brought into streets which as yet have no houses.· It foresaw electric light, credit cards, shopping malls and electronic broadcasting.· When lit only by the electric lights, the large figures in the foreground appear thicker, more dimensional.
· A faint sliver of light showed along the bottom of the door on his right.· A laser transmitted faint light signals to an electronic detector.· Standing all day on the wet clay floor under the dropping ceiling in the faint light cast by tallow candles was grim.· After a sharp turn in the path, they are suddenly approaching a faint square of light.· M56 is not at all prominent, but shows up as a faint patch of light.· When I saw the faint glow of light in the distance, it scarcely registered with me.· A faint yellow light filtered through the thin curtains.· A faint light now appears behind the beaded curtain of one of the houses that face the courtyard.
· There was no floodlighting here, only a small fluorescent light over the entrance.· While the other tour members chatted and compared equipment Mom stood to one side, her face pale under the fluorescent lights.· Down below were the pink seashell murals lit by fluorescent lights, and distant black and white movies on the screen.· I bought nine fluorescent light fixtures-bulbs, ballast, and wire.· There was a skim of grease that shone in the fluorescent light of the Kitchen.· On the desk was what appeared to be a fluorescent light box the size of a briefcase.· Lightning flashed again, brilliant as a fluorescent light.· Strips of fluorescent lights struggled against the gloominess of the space.
· General Thurman still had to receive a final green light from the president once he had worked out a plan.· But after waiting years for the building permits, Rohr got the green light to build just as the market turned down.· A solitary street-lamp shed feeble green light, leaving most of the street in shadow.· The coaches may have been flashing the green light, but all the players saw was a blinking red.· An enormous structure, resembling a Calder mobile, and hung with green and blue lights, revolves slowly.· The action got a green light Monday from the Food and Drug Administration.· Upon the dashboard of a black Cadillac sedan parked in a nearby side-road a green light began to flash furiously.· There was this eerie green light.
· Chapter Twenty one Urquhart flicked the main switch and she blinked as the room was washed by the harsh overhead light.· In the harsh light, its most notable feature is a small metal grate over a drain in the very center.· The harsh lights that the photographers had used still glared down on the scene.· The president of the bank was a hard-faced aesthete with cheekbones so deeply indented that he appeared skull-like under harsh ceiling lights.· The space underneath was filled with a harsh light of burnished gold.· Their facial features are indistinguishable, brightly lit though they are by harsh artificial lights.· The presence of Jen was like a harsh light in his eyes.· The refugees stumbled toward military buses, blinking at the harsh lights.
· Table 11.2 shows times when natural light is recommended or advised against.· Saconi was in there at one of the tables, blithe and ambivalent in the diffused natural light.· Whilst we stress the artificial nature of most time-cues, it would be misleading to suggest that natural light is without effect.· A special feature is a cantilevered bay window which is designed to create more space and to give plenty of natural light.· Other requirements: Light: Needs very good light, especially natural light.· Soane created a beautifully spacious building, awash in natural light.· Modern school buildings make as much use as possible of natural light, incorporating as they do large windows.· He worked out of doors, with natural light and a white background.
· The neutron observations may help cast new light on solar flares and solar activity.· Hajdu sheds new, revelatory light on the complex relationship between Strayhorn and Ellington.· This guy Rufus appears in a new light.· The Agency is always willing to consider a man in a new light.· What had to be understood was the process which led to the evolution of society seen in this new light.· And marketing executives began looking at the Hispanic population in a new light.· Campaigners now hope parish councillors will abandon their scheme for 30 new lights and accept alternative proposals instead.· That throws a whole new light on it.
· Her tests for the relation between grammatical structure and context formation similarly show the unschooled Wolof children in a poor light.· The poor light barely reached the chamber's four walls.· The curtains in the flat were drawn, cutting down even the poor light that remained from outside.· Then, having ensured that the match would finish so late, Moin complained about the poor light.· Delgard paused at the top of the stairs, allowing his eyes to adjust to the poor light.· Even if, in the poor light, you did see it, you would dismiss it.· Should children attempt to read in poor light?· He glanced at his watch, bringing it close to his face because of the poor light.
· Yet the presentational imperative to project the policies of government in a positive light masked the existence of inner doubts.· You can always interpret things in a more positive light or a more negative light.· It was as if a door had opened before him into a dim but positive light.· Books portraying black men in a positive light are simply not part of the growth industry.· This may help one to see the beauty and wisdom of the natural world in a much more positive light.· By contrast, 57 percent viewed Dole in a positive light, while only 27 percent saw him in a negative light.· Present everything in a positive light.
· The Governor's sanctum was a leviathan suffused with the same dreary red light.· The deeper they live, the less red light penetrates compared with blue.· There were red lights in her curls which she had never noticed and her complexion was without flaw.· The greener the water, the less red or blue light penetrates.· Down below, two points of red light appear, one at a time like a wink in reverse.· The bigger issue is, will San Franciscans still be allowed to run red lights across Market Street?· One red light came on faintly.· The flashing red light went out, to be replaced by a steady light of a soothing green.
· On the landing a soft light shone into the dark from the corridor, as in memory.· A soft pinkish light played against the curtains.· In the soft evening light, I retraced my steps back to town, soothed by the songs of blackbirds and chaffinches.· The soft light of dusk was thinning, leaving trees and buildings blackened agalnst the evening sky.· Through the curtains a soft grey light is creeping.· She took her place at his side again, and watched the exquisitely etched face in the soft light.· His olive skin seemed to glint in the soft light of the hallway; the flat behind him was almost totally dark.· As the students are talking, a wave of soft, vague light, of sleepy distraction, passes over Primo.
· It will even tolerate strong light, when the colour of the leaves will intensify.· These more primitive readings in sharar throw a particularly strong light on the occurrence of the institution narrative there.· Too strong light should be avoided, as it has the habit of developing leaves above the water.· The color of the lower surface is more intense in stronger light.· Other requirements: Light: Needs strong light.· Her work still casts a strong light.· Given strong light, the plant will grow stronger, with deep coloration.· Often these were accompanied by strong flashes of light.
NOUN
· The road was closed for a while because of a dangerous street light.· Also on the list: Third Street light rail: Check.· The street lights are still on, but the sky ain't black no more.· As they approached the corner, the street lights came on.· Gas was used in houses and for street lights from the early nineteenth century.· The track awakes in the half light of dawn, when there are still misty halos around the street lights.· Just then, the street lights come on.· The city also gave an additional $ 20, 000 for banners to be hung from street lights.
· The letters are divided into traffic light colours to signal to customers whether their endowment will pay off their mortgage.· I usually posted myself then at a busy intersection where a traffic light controlled commuter flow from Newark.· Anger is like a red light at the traffic lights.· Cars have been stolen at traffic lights.· Up ahead the traffic lights were on red but he didn't slow up.· Julie didn't answer, but drove on towards the traffic lights, glancing again in the rear-view mirror.· She slowed down at the traffic lights by Sloane Street.· The woman was killed while she was out walking with her husband, when two cars collided at traffic lights.
· The warning light came on, and it's thought that was the point at which the pilot radioed for help.· Looking right then left he saw the signals with their warning lights reassuring him of their presence.· But when the pilot switched on his flight systems, a red warning light glowed.· Barriers and warning lights were put up and further warning lights were placed a short distance away.· It is because at this time the warning light is more easily visible in the twilight than in the daylight.· The bulb had obviously been hit hard soas to break its filament, to ensure no warning light came on.
VERB
· The fields and woods were bathed in golden light overlaid with a blue haze of heat.· We looked like Superman escorting Howdy Doody, and I bathed in the light of his company.· Multi-bracketed candelabra placed along the centre helped the sconce torches to bathe the room in light.· Even the water tower in Addison, a northern suburb, is bathed in blue light.· The castle was bathed in a flickering light.· Conversely, Cafe Pinot bathes in the light of learning shed by the L.A.· But then the sun broke through and the field, the altar, the tree, was bathed in a pure light.· He threw open a side door off the first-floor hall, and we were bathed in light.
· Overhead, a bulb casts an eerie bluish light.· Biophysics is certainly able to cast significant light on processes occurring within living cells.· The sun had just gone down, and our apartment was cast in a pale-pastel light.· Moreover Pound's anti-Semitism, later so notorious, certainly casts a sinister light on his readiness to broach these issues.· It casts a brilliant light on everyone around him.· Street lights are not too bad because they don't shine directly into your face and only cast a fairly soft light.· Her work still casts a strong light.
· Some likened it to facing the fast bowler Curtly Ambrose in a fading light.· In the fading light of the patio, Yolanda can not make out the expression on the dark face.· The lights were fading - the lights had all gone out.· There was a fading light I had never quite seen.· I turned to warn Tam and Richie, whom I could just see in the fading light.
· It's like she flashed a bright light in my eyes, and I have to look away.· The door opened and flashed with light and then it slammed.· They'd paint them pink and mark them with big, yellow, flashing lights.· Properly crafted, such legislation raises legitimate questions about the extent and nature of U.S. involvement and flashes warning lights.· He wanted to know why I was flashing the light.· For the remainder of the evening, Barbara and A. B. Everage honked their horn and flashed their lights.· The nomes had learned to be worried by things with flashing blue lights on top.
· Out in the street afterwards they wandered around the corner into Leicester Square to see the Christmas lights.· Freedom of press, seen in this light, becomes a questionable guarantee.· She toiled up the stairs, and saw that a light showed on the landing above.· But then I saw this bright light at the window.· People won't admit it, they're too busy grabbing to see that the lights have fused.· Then I seen in the light, like inside it, with the light all around, a person.· But, like the National Health Service, education could be seen in a different light.· Rather than seeing a light at the end of the sanctions tunnel, Hussein felt increasingly boxed in.
· In this chapter, some of the evidence will be reviewed which sheds some light on three questions.· Hajdu sheds new, revelatory light on the complex relationship between Strayhorn and Ellington.· Sometimes they can have a mythical dimension, images that shed a new light on traditions of wisdom or legend.· A streetlight beside an elementary school shed just enough light to let me make sense out of the map.· Unfortunately, he didn't, nor was the lecturer, when asked, able to shed any light on the subject.· Can you shed any light on my quest?· A solitary street-lamp shed feeble green light, leaving most of the street in shadow.· Podesta's role sheds light on both questions.
Phrases
PHRASES FROM THE ENTRY
  • Do you have a light?
  • A spark can just as easily set light to your clothes as it can to a dryer full of washing.
  • Flames set light to his jacket and Mr Williams was helped into a nearby toilet where his hands were drenched with water.
  • My father had twice set light to the form.
  • That spark can set light to further proposals, ideas and chances in the manager's mind.
  • The police set light to it.
  • The vandals broke into the house, piled the cooker with linen then switched it on and set light to it.
  • Would we leave a thing like that when any kiddy could knock the chocks out or set light to it?
  • Youths fired an arrow through the window of one house and set light to another in an attempt to silence them.
  • It eventually came to light that the CIA had information about a security problem.
  • But as Judge Priore's investigation continues, more mysteries come to light.
  • Few such blemishes, given the secrecy of organizational practice, came to light.
  • However, very interesting dynamics regarding the competition and market structure are coming to light.
  • It is a complete mystery to everyone how the following gems came to light in 1989.
  • The debate might have been clarified by study of the relevant Sanskrit texts: but these came to light only slowly.
  • The problem came to light when an ambulance was delayed attending an emergency at Harwood-in-Teesdale, just before Christmas.
  • The relationship came to light when a mysterious note was handed to a barrister at an earlier hearing.
  • This came to light in the present century during widening and repair operations.
  • Newly found Aztec artifacts may shed some light on their mysterious culture.
  • A fretful wind was not enough to open them and shed light on the ruptured earth in which they lay.
  • An analysis of the results should shed light on the workings of the Northern Ireland labour market.
  • Geographical comparison of patterns of lawbreaking sometimes throws light on more general differences in social and economic conditions.
  • He uses relativity to throw light on time and eternity, and indeterminacy to comment on free will.
  • In addition, the research is expected to shed light on the social consequences of cities' changing economic roles.
  • Owing to the small sample size, the results can only be expected to shed light on the trends.
  • Therefore they shed light on the comparative institutional questions with which we are concerned.
  • This may shed light on Soviet views of such zones.
  • A supplementary budget was announced in February 1991 in the light of the negative effects of the Gulf crisis on the economy.
  • I look at this coldly in the light of right and wrong.
  • It provides for rapid feedback and the consequent modification of goals in the light of changing circumstances.
  • Justice is viewed in the light of living up to those rules.
  • The cry of the tortured, the disillusioned, the faithless in the light of appalling suffering.
  • They were smooth and shiny, the skin bright in the light of the overhead lamp.
  • We frequently are told in more general words that the Constitution must be construed in the light of the present.
  • We then analyzed that data in the light of history and like activities, and published the results for all to see.
  • But, like the National Health Service, education could be seen in a different light.
  • He found there a country whose characteristics cast the philosophy of birth control in a new light.
  • I've seen him at a distance, I've seen him in bad light.
  • I think we both saw young Mr Venn in new lights, and they were neither favorable nor unfavorable, just new.
  • It makes you think about those sullen high schoolers in a different light, see their lives along a time line.
  • So let us fantasise, and see industry and agriculture in a new light.
  • They literally saw the whole world in a new light.
  • They perch too far away in bad light.
  • Danny finally saw the light and bought me flowers on Valentine's Day.
  • We can only hope the mayor will see the light and close down all these sex shops.
  • But soon he could only see the lights of the boat in the distance.
  • Each has attracted his or her share of supporters who could also see the light once it was pointed out to them.
  • Five minutes later he saw the lights of a village pub.
  • From two blocks away you can see the light radiating up into the sky.
  • It was uncanny and Maggie was never so glad to see the light from her own room and get Ana back indoors.
  • One must have experienced deeply, known greatness - seen the light, as he said.
  • Sadly, for it was a lively, largely autobiographical piece, it would never see the light of day.
  • You were sitting in your seat, pressed back by the acceleration, and you saw the light beams curve.
  • But at least none of them saw the light of print - until today's souvenir edition.
  • From two blocks away you can see the light radiating up into the sky.
  • Get to the back of the drawers and cupboards - areas which don't often see the light of day.
  • He say if you afraid of the truth to get back in the shadows cause you never will see the light.
  • I can see the light under Marie's door, but there's no noise or nothing.
  • I never sold a garment or got an order from this source, I wonder if they saw the light of day.
  • I saw the light widening in the window, but I could not make myself get up.
  • On a clear night, you could see the lights of Saigon.
  • After a year of declining profits, there's finally a light at the end of the tunnel.
  • After all the problems we've had we're finally beginning to see some light at the end of the tunnel.
  • For Jane there is some light at the end of the tunnel, but many anorexia sufferers continue to suffer in silence.
► have your name in lights
  • She was out like a light, as soon as we put her in bed.
  • A minute later he went out like a light.
  • Either it was the brandy or it was the heat, but she went out like a light.
  • I went out like a light.
  • Something hit me on the back of the head, here, and I went out like a light.
  • Mrs. Shaewitz is a leading light in the local drama society.
  • By 1991, it was a leading light in outlandish front suspension concepts.
  • On renouncing alcohol he was pardoned and he set sail for Darlington where he became a leading light in the Society.
  • She loves gym workouts, swimming and playing netball - she is a leading light in a local women's team.
  • We have a four-year-old son who is the light of my life.
  • His wife, while sound in mind, had taken a pillow and had deliberately snuffed out the light of his life.
  • Ixora was his only child, the light of his life.
  • LoEshe was the light of his life.
  • At first light on 7 June I checked the compass.
  • At the end of a long gash An atrocity through the lace of first light I sit with the reeking instrument.
  • But until first light, how would he fend off the terrors of the darkness?
  • In the pale first light of dawn I pulled off beside a lake in the state of Vera Cruz.
  • Sergio told us that upon entering the rapid his paddle had snapped in half on his first light stroke.
  • The Caribou took off at first light.
  • The first light of dawn found Joe in Lucy's basement room at the mews cottage.
  • We had some two hours sleep that night, then proceeded to align our position before first light.
  • Could you move to the left a little? You're standing in my light.
  • Edouard examined the jewellery carefully, standing in the north light of the atelier's large window.
  • He stood in the light from the nearest pillar.
  • I stand in a light mist of rain.
  • Now that they stood in the light, Jehan could see that both of them were blackened by grime and oil.
PHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES
  • Homeothermy or Homoiothermy Temperature regulation in tachymetabolic species in which core temperatures remain roughly steady despite ambient temperature changes.
  • If you space heat then you will have an ambient temperature of 75-80°F and even higher humidity.
  • It really comes into its own with flash as the metering balances the flash against the ambient lighting conditions with great results.
  • Odour emissions are affected by wind direction, temperature inversion, ambient temperatures and humidity.
  • The ambient temperature for each day of the study was determined from local weekly weather statistics.
  • The ambient temperature in Celsius is roughly equal to the number of cricket chirps in 8 seconds plus 5.
  • He threw open a side door off the first-floor hall, and we were bathed in light.
  • First I turned off the brightest lights.
  • He gestured toward the street, the bright lights of Osaka shining before us.
  • In the bright lights of the foyer his face was clearly illuminated.
  • Instead Elizabeth spent a year at business college in St Albans before joining the bright lights of London's magazine world.
  • It had to be the cold air and the bright lights against the darkness.
  • Self- imposed pressure Lately, she has wondered if her message is getting lost in the bright lights of television.
  • Under the bright lights in the train, both boy and man look pale, lifeless.
  • Young Gilbey's passion was cars and he skipped going to university to move to the bright lights of London.
► hide your light under a bushel
  • The convergence of the techniques will cast light on perspectives and how they are controlled.
  • The different ways in which superantigens activate T cells casts light on the pathogenesis of infectious disease.
  • The incident has cast light on the creeping privatisation of the drug war.
  • The investigation explores the possibility of using probate inventories to cast light on this and related questions.
  • We use this to cast light on a metaphor of which we are given no other interpretation.
  • I knew that, in the cold light of day, he held all the aces.
  • Night-time madness isn't appealing, seen in the cold light of day.
► light/fair/dark complected► dim your headlights/lights
  • He put his foot on the accelerator and dipped his headlights.
► drenched in/with light
  • During the time she was living with the Abramses, Katelyn was happy and a big eater, Carter said.
  • While never a big eater, he did tend to snack it through the day and night.
  • They had come in the night and lit a fire under the stage.
  • The search continued at first light.
  • They left camp at first light and were in the mountains by nightfall.
  • A small flock of evening grosbeaks flew over, and at first light I heard chickadees and goldfinches.
  • It was black as night at new moon and white as frost at first light.
  • Mountain rescue teams continued the hunt overnight, and a full-scale search resumed at first light.
  • The ambush would leave its position the next morning, at first light, to return.
  • The Caribou took off at first light.
  • We have had trouble at first light with the Khmer Rouge.
  • The board just gave us the green light to begin research.
  • Doctors gave him the green light yesterday to start against New Orleans on Sunday night.
  • Everyone has given it the green light.
  • And that is what Aeneas's young son did under the guiding hand of Alecto.
  • Eddie was his hero, his guiding light.
  • Father Peter, its guiding light, was also its provider of funds and sustenance.
  • That will be the guiding light of the next Labour government.
  • To followers, he is more than just a guiding light - he is the Messiah.
  • Under Mr Yarrow's guiding hand, the reputation of the school was untarnished, these five long years.
► jump a light
  • Another was a leading light opera singer in the local community.
  • By now, Braudel had become one of its leading lights, and from 1956 to 1968 he was virtually its editor.
  • Harrison, a man of simple birth and high intelligence, crossed swords with the leading lights of his day.
  • On renouncing alcohol he was pardoned and he set sail for Darlington where he became a leading light in the Society.
  • She loves gym workouts, swimming and playing netball - she is a leading light in a local women's team.
  • The merchants were the leading lights of the popolo grasso or rich bourgeoisie.
  • This victory may set Stretch up with a world-title elimination fight with Britain's other leading light middleweight, Chris Pyatt.
► light years ahead/better etc than something► light years ago
  • A very powerful naked light bulb hung from the office ceiling.
  • Both men were armed, each carrying a naked sword and dirk.
  • He is like a naked light.
  • Obviously this is untrue - it is not the naked light that Blanche can not stand, it is the truth.
  • She likes to cover up the truth like she covers over the naked light.
  • She turned, all flaxen and pink and white, haloed by the naked light bulbs round the mirror.
  • This gives a double meaning to Blanche's hatred of naked light.
► play a hose/light on something
  • I have a wonderful play of light and shade, and the tungsten light gives a very similar effect.
  • Make notes as you watch the play of light in various areas as the sun tracks east to west across the sky.
  • A pool of light, expanding circles, merging, dragging me down.
  • A guard found him lying in a pool of blood, and a doctor saved him.
  • After they are replaced, the spent fuel rods are cooled for several years in pools of water at the plants.
  • His black telephone sat captive in a pool of light, ready for interrogation.
  • She leaves the coach and wanders through fields for many miles until between trees she sees a deep black pool of water.
  • The kind of pool of light depends on whether the bulb fitted inside is a spot, flood or an ordinary bulb.
  • Then on the fifth day, mid-morning, a pool of light as pale and clear as moonstone appeared on the horizon.
  • There was a pool of blood on the tarmac now, around his head.
► punch somebody’s lights out
  • Amid the crushing disappointment of the general election there was a ray of light for the Conservatives.
  • Besides, today there had been a ray of hope.
  • But only when a ray of light attempts to pierce this darkness does the real, eerie action unroll.
  • But the Red Or Dead catwalk show offered a ray of hope.
  • Each time a ray of light passes through a lens it is slightly weakened.
  • The Government's resignation is a victory, a ray of hope to take into the dark days ahead.
  • After a day's work, it was a bit of light relief to use it.
  • After this beginning some light relief must have been welcome.
  • All we can say is that, between them, the team eventually raises £3,450 for Comic Relief charities.
  • Cold people shake Comic Relief canisters.
  • For comic relief, obviously; but we also suspect a topical reference worth considering as evidence in the dating game.
  • Her only light relief was Tony, who took her out every night.
  • If it afforded the guardians a little light relief, the minutes do not suggest that the complaint was taken anything but seriously.
  • Then, for light relief, this page: murder and murder trials.
  • An old man who worked in a poultry store was stopped for running a light.
  • For every motorist who runs a red light, there are five pedestrians who do it.
  • It was going to sea with only its running lights on.
  • Jones still faces a misdemeanor charge of reckless driving and an infraction for running a red light.
  • Men are more likely to run a red light, forget to signal, or drink and drive.
  • The running lights flashed off and a thick silence filled up the day.
  • The bigger issue is, will San Franciscans still be allowed to run red lights across Market Street?
  • When you run a red light, a few coins save a fine.
  • But soon he could only see the lights of the boat in the distance.
  • Each has attracted his or her share of supporters who could also see the light once it was pointed out to them.
  • Five minutes later he saw the lights of a village pub.
  • From two blocks away you can see the light radiating up into the sky.
  • It was uncanny and Maggie was never so glad to see the light from her own room and get Ana back indoors.
  • One must have experienced deeply, known greatness - seen the light, as he said.
  • Sadly, for it was a lively, largely autobiographical piece, it would never see the light of day.
  • You were sitting in your seat, pressed back by the acceleration, and you saw the light beams curve.
  • Business contracts go through armies of lawyers before they see the light of day.
  • Most observers predict the bill won't see the light of day until at least January.
  • And eventually, Guinness as we know it, rich subtle and dark, is ready to see the light of day.
  • Get to the back of the drawers and cupboards - areas which don't often see the light of day.
  • I am not too worried about the new council tax because I doubt whether it will see the light of day.
  • I never sold a garment or got an order from this source, I wonder if they saw the light of day.
  • Many of Brindley's ideas were regarded as the hair-brained schemes of a madman which would never see the light of day.
  • Sadly, for it was a lively, largely autobiographical piece, it would never see the light of day.
  • The implication must be that a lot of bids are being planned but never see the light of day.
  • There's so much good stuff that has never seen the light of day.
  • A fretful wind was not enough to open them and shed light on the ruptured earth in which they lay.
  • An analysis of the results should shed light on the workings of the Northern Ireland labour market.
  • Brophy said the man was not considered a suspect, but investigators hope he can shed light on what started the blaze.
  • Eastin and her task force hope to shed light on the challenge by early next year.
  • Podesta's role sheds light on both questions.
  • The extent of Hygeberht's authority perhaps sheds light on Offa's principal area of interest.
  • Therefore they shed light on the comparative institutional questions with which we are concerned.
► show somebody in a good/bad etc light
  • A streak of lightning split the sky.
  • Sometimes there is hope, a streak of light, a blur on a piece of film.
  • The three women were wreaking havoc with their guns that fired streaks of light.
  • There was another streak of lightning overhead.
  • A string of lights on the prom Dancing mad in the storm Who lives in such a place?
  • A string of pearls was around her neck, and the bones of her right hand clutched a Bible.
  • Beads can choke babies if swallowed, and long strings of beads can also half-strangle older children.
  • Careful inspection of the image showed what looked like a string of pearls embedded in a bright haze.
  • There was a cavity beneath with a string of pearls in it.
  • When the harbor across the bay becomes a string of lights, foghorns take up the bass.
  • The negotiations were not all sweetness and light.
  • A comparison of the two will throw light on the crisis of conscience on both occasions.
  • But I have not found anything in the careful judgment of Mustill L.J. which throws light on the issues presently under consideration.
  • But my frantic, full-beamed Mayday signal only threw light on a de-iced porthole.
  • Epidemiological studies sometimes threw light on preventable causes of cancer.
  • Experiments to throw light on the processes at work must themselves be long-term.
  • Geographical comparison of patterns of lawbreaking sometimes throws light on more general differences in social and economic conditions.
  • It also seeks to throw light on the role assumed by planters and the planting lobby in society at large.
  • Life-positions throw light on why it is that some people tend to be winners and some losers in life.
  • Begin from a fighting stance, perhaps by throwing a light snap punch into the opponent's face from the front hand.
  • But the flames were growing higher, throwing light, casting dancing shadows.
  • Fossils do throw light on the history of the lateral line and tail.
  • Geographical comparison of patterns of lawbreaking sometimes throws light on more general differences in social and economic conditions.
  • He uses relativity to throw light on time and eternity, and indeterminacy to comment on free will.
  • The role of premises is to throw light on a subject; the role of evidences is to give weight to it.
  • Understanding the nature and activities of such organisations helped throw light upon issues of town identity and representation.
  • Where once they flew in such flocks that they threw shadows over the earth, they now survive in a few straggling colonies.
  • Among their routines as they trip the light fantastic at the Dolphin Centre in Darlington are the old time and modern dances.
  • He turned the light out as the clergyman left the room.
  • I take the car up as far as it will go, then turn the lights out.
  • They turned the lights out and sat in fear.
  • Would you mind turning the light out, Robert?
  • But she made light work of polishing off the shopping at a supermarket near her West London home.
  • Carmen would have made short work of Michael too.
  • Fourth placed Guisborough made short work of the opposition at Saltburn.
  • Guernsey made short work of the opposition when they won the event on home soil in 1990.
  • It is fair to warn anglers that thousands of crabs soon make short work of rag and lugworm.
  • It made short work of our Windows performance tests, WinTach, clocking up an impressive index of over 9.3.
  • The second game we pull away early and make short work of it.
  • Willie Thorne made light work of the promising Nottinghamshire youngster, Anthony Hamilton, as he eased into the last 16.
Word family
WORD FAMILYnounlightlighterlightinglightnessadjectivelightlightedunlitverblightlightenadverblightlylight
1natural/artificial light a)[uncountable] the energy from the Sun, a flame, a lamp etc that allows you to see things:  We saw a flash of light.in/by the light of something Everything looked grey in the dim light of the oil lamp. I read by the light of the fire.in/into the light The man moved forward into the light. b)[countable] a particular type of light, with its own particular colour, level of brightness etc:  The colours look different in different lights.2lamp/electric light etc [countable] a)something that produces light, especially electric light, to help you to see:  Ahead of us we could see the lights of the city. We’re having a mixture of wall lights and ceiling lights in different parts of the house.turn/switch/put on a light I switched on the light in the bedroom.turn/switch/put off a light Don’t forget to switch the lights off when you go out.turn/switch/put out a light Can you turn the light out downstairs?a light is/comes/goes on The lights in the office were still on. The street lights were just beginning to come on. He left a light on in the kitchen.a light is off/out Make sure all the lights are off when you leave. Suddenly all the lights in the house went out. Can you turn the light down (=make it less bright) a bit? → the bright lights at bright(14) b)something such as a lamp that you can carry to give you light:  Shine a light over here, will you?3traffic control [countable usually plural] one of a set of red, green, and yellow lights used for controlling traffic SYN  traffic lights:  We waited for the lights to change. Eventually the lights turned green. The driver had failed to stop at a red light. → green light4on a vehicle [countable usually plural] one of the lights on a car, bicycle etc that help you to see at night:  He was dazzled by the lights of oncoming traffic. You’ve left your lights on. → brake light, headlight, parking light5first light literary the time when light first appears in the morning sky:  We set out at first light the next day.6be/stand in somebody’s light to prevent someone from getting all the light they need to see or do something:  Could you move to the left a little – you’re standing in my light.7for a cigarette a light a match or something else to light a cigarette:  Have you got a light, please?8in somebody’s eyes [singular] literary an expression in someone’s eyes that shows an emotion or intention SYN  gleam:  There was a murderous light in his eyes.9set light to something to make something start burning:  The candle fell over and set light to the barn.10come to light/be brought to light if new information comes to light, it becomes known:  This evidence did not come to light until after the trial. The mistake was only brought to light some years later.11throw/shed/cast light on something to provide new information that makes a difficult subject or problem easier to understand:  Melanie was able to shed some light on the situation. These discoveries may throw new light on the origins of the universe.12in the light of something British English, in light of something American English if you do or decide something in the light of something else, you do it after considering that thing:  In light of this tragic event, we have canceled the 4th of July celebrations.13in a new/different/bad etc light if someone or something is seen or shown in a particular light, people can see that particular part of their character:  I suddenly saw my father in a new light. This incident will put the company in a very bad light.14see the light a)to suddenly understand something:  At last doctors have seen the light! b)to begin to believe in a religion very strongly15see the light (of day) a)if an object sees the light of day, it is taken from the place where it has been hidden, and becomes publicly known:  Some of these documents will probably never see the light of day. b)if a law, decision etc sees the light of day, it comes into existence for the first time16light at the end of the tunnel something that gives you hope for the future after a long and difficult period:  It’s been a hard few months, but we’re finally beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel.17have your name in lights informal to be successful and famous in theatre or films18go/be out like a light informal to go to sleep very quickly because you are very tired:  I went straight to bed and went out like a light.19a leading light in/of something informal someone who is important in a particular organization:  She’s one of the leading lights of the local dramatic society.20the light of somebody’s life the person that someone loves more than anyone else:  Her son was the light of her life.21window [countable] a window in a roof or wall that allows light into a room → hide your light under a bushel at bushel, red-light district, → be all sweetness and light at sweetness(3), → in the cold light of day at cold1(9)COLLOCATIONSADJECTIVES/NOUN + lightbright/strong· The light was so bright he had to shut his eyes.blinding/dazzling (=extremely bright)· The white buildings reflected a blinding light.dim (=not bright)· Gradually her eyes became accustomed to the dim light.good (=bright enough)· Stand over here where the light is good.poor/bad (=not bright enough)· The light was too poor for me to read.soft/warm (=light that seems slightly yellow or orange)· the soft light of the candlescold/harsh (=light that seems slightly blue)· the cold light of the moonthe morning/dawn light· The flowers glowed brightly in the morning light.natural light (=light produced by the sun)· The only natural light came from two high windows.artificial light (=light produced by lamps)· The office was windowless, lit only by artificial light.verbslight shines· The light from the streetlamp shone through the curtains.light comes from somewhere· The only light came from the fire.light streams/floods in (=a large amount of light comes in)· Light streamed in through the window.light falls on/across etc something· The light fell on her book.light illuminates something formal (=makes it bright or able to be seen)· The light from the screen illuminated the people gathered round it.the light is fading (=it is getting darker as the sun is going down)produce light (also emit light technical)· the light produced by the suncast light (=send light onto something)· the gold circle of light cast by the lampreflect light· Snow reflects a lot of light.something is bathed in light literary (=something has a lot of light shining on it)· The fields and woods were bathed in golden light.phrasesa beam/ray/shaft of light (=a thin line of light)· There was a shaft of light from the doorway.a flash of light (=a bright light that appears suddenly for a very short time)· A flash of light caught his attention.a pool/circle of light (=an area of light)· They stood in the pool of light cast by the streetlamp.THESAURUS– Meaning 2light something that produces light, especially electric light, to help you to see: · She switched the kitchen light on.· The lights in the house were all off.lamp an object that produces light by using electricity, oil, or gas – often used in names of lights: · a bedside lamp· a street lamp· a desk lamp· a table lamp· an old oil lamp· a paraffin lamplantern a lamp that you can carry, consisting of a metal container with glass sides that surrounds a flame or light: · The miners used lanterns which were lit by candles.torch British English, flashlight American English a small electric lamp that you carry in your hand: · We shone our torches around the cavern.candle a stick of wax with a string through the middle, which you burn to give light: · The restaurant was lit by candles.bulb the glass part of an electric light, that the light shines from: · a 100 watt bulb· an energy-saving light bulbon a carheadlight (also headlamp) one of the two large lights at the front of a vehicle: · It was getting dark so she switched the headlights on.sidelight British English, parking light American English one of the two small lights next to the main lights, at the front and back of a cartail light one of the two red lights at the back of a vehicleindicator British English, turn signal American English one of the lights on a car that flash to show which way the car is turning
light1 nounlight2 adjectivelight3 verblight4 adverb
lightlight2 ●●● S1 W1 adjective (comparative lighter, superlative lightest) Entry menu
MENU FOR lightlight1 colour2 daylight3 rooms4 not heavy5 not great6 clothes7 wind8 sound9 touch10 work/exercise11 food12 punishment13 a light smoker/drinker/eater etc14 light sleep/doze15 a light sleeper16 not serious17 light relief18 make light of something19 on a lighter note/in a lighter vein20 make light work of something21 be light on your feet22 a light heart23 soil
Word Origin
WORD ORIGINlight2
Origin:
Old English leoht
Examples
EXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
  • light yogurt
  • a light blue shirt
  • a light breeze
  • a light dessert
  • a light white wine
  • Heat rises because hot air is lighter than cold air.
  • I try to have a light workout every day.
  • Jones received only a light punishment.
  • Modern tennis rackets are much lighter than old-fashioned wooden ones.
  • She has light brown hair.
  • She prepared a light lunch of salad and cheese.
  • She was light as a feather to carry, and her hands were cold as ice.
  • Some ministers are suggesting that there should be much lighter penalties for first-time offenders.
  • The hallway led to a light and spacious studio.
  • The kitchen is light and airy, with a fantastic view.
  • The sentence was surprisingly light for such a serious offence.
  • The studio was light and spacious.
  • The traffic's much lighter than usual.
  • They both have brown hair, but Tina's is slightly lighter.
  • This is a nice jacket and we also do it in a light green.
EXAMPLES FROM THE CORPUS
  • All light aircraft maintenance workshops would most certainly have one for synchronizing and timing port and starboard magnetos on piston engines.
  • Anyway, say packagers, their wrappings have become lighter.
  • He opened the window and a light fresh breeze clutched at the curtains.
  • He was making sure they were not exposed to any form of light source, however muted.
  • M., the two cars sped along the autostrada toward Brescia in a light mist.
  • Now it was light enough to leave.
  • The lighter electro-mechanical version had 60 movements, 30 of them in the head, and was also cable-controlled.
  • The best rocket exhaust is a very light, very hot gas.
Thesaurus
THESAURUSlight colours
used about a colour that is not dark: · a light blue sweater· His T-shirt was light green.
used about a colour that is very light: · He has very pale blue eyes.
used about a colour that is light in a way that is attractive because it is not too obvious: · She wears soft colours such as cream, which match her complexion.
used about a colour that has a lot of white in it: · The girls wore pastel pink sundresses.
a pale colour is very light: · He has very pale blue eyes.· a flower with pale green leaves
a light colour is not dark: · His T-shirt was light green.· a light blue sweater
pastel colours have a lot of white in them: · The girls wore pastel pink sundresses.
light in colour because of being washed many times or affected by the sun: · The curtains were old and faded.· a pair of faded jeans
a bright place
full of light: · I wish the room was a bit brighter.
bright because there are big windows: · The dining room was light and airy.
bright because there are plenty of electric lights: · Try to park in a well-lit place.
Longman Language Activatorlight from the sun, a fire, an electric light etc
· Light was coming into the room through a crack in the door.· a gas lamp that gives as much light as a 100 watt bulbthe light (=the amount of natural light in a place) · The light was fading, and I was afraid we wouldn't be home before dark.good/strong/bright light · The light isn't good enough to take a photograph.poor/dim/fading light · In the fading light she could just make out the shape of a tractor.soft/warm light · The valley was bathed in the soft light of dawn.cold/harsh light · the cold blue light of the Arcticblinding/dazzling light (=very strong light that hurts your eyes) · a sudden flash of blinding lightby the light of the moon/the fire/a candle (=with only the moon etc to give light) · She sat reading by the light of the fire.
spoken use this to say that there is natural daylight, so that you can see easily enough to do something: · Let's go now while it's still light.· It's not light enough to play outside.
the natural light of day: in daylight: · I'd like to look at the house again in daylight.daylight hours (=the time when it is light): · The park is open during daylight hours.
the light from the sun: · Her long blonde hair was shining in the sunlight.· We emerged from the dark forest into the sunlight. direct sunlight: · Keep the plant out of direct sunlight.
the light from the moon: · The trees looked strangely white in the moonlight.· Moonlight came in through the curtains, lighting up the children's sleeping faces.
a very bright and unpleasant light that makes you want to close your eyes or turn your head away: glare of: · the glare of the car's headlights· The heat and glare of the furnace is immense.
a soft pleasant light, especially from something that is burning: · Candles give a warm glow to the room.glow of: · the orange glow of the sunset
a line of light shining from something such as a lamp: · We could see the beams of searchlights scanning the sky.beam of light: · Maggie stumbled across the field with only a narrow beam of light from her flashlight to help her.
a line of light, especially one shining from the sun: · Use a sunscreen to protect your skin against the sun's harmful rays.· The first rays of the sun pierced the canopy of leaves above us, and the forest began to wake up.
to make a place light
to shine lights on a place so that people can see it well, or so that it looks attractive: light up something/light something up: · Fireworks lit up the night sky.· Their garden was lit up by dozens of coloured lamps.
to put lights in a place so that people can see what is happening there: · What are you going to use to light the stage?be lit by/with something: · The room was lit by dozens of candles.
to turn or press a control to make an electric light produce light: · Can you put the light on? I can't see anything!· When I turned on the light, I realized the room was in chaos.
to make a place light or shine light on something so that you can see it, especially in order to draw attention to something: illuminate something: · Small lights illuminate different points on the map.· The blazing fire illuminated the china ornaments above the hearth.be illuminated by/with something: · A small path was illuminated by low orange lamps concealed in the flower beds.
when the lights in a place are on
· Although the lights were on, nobody answered the door.· The lights are still on in a couple of the offices.
if a room, house, building etc is lit up , the lights are on inside or outside: · People were getting ready for dinner, and the house was all lit up.· In the town centre, the streets are all lit up for Christmas.be lit up by/with: · The mosque is lit up by floodlights at night.
if a place or set of lights is ablaze , there is a lot of bright light because all the lights are turned on - used especially in literature: · The yacht passed us, its cabin lights ablaze.ablaze with: · Every shop window is ablaze with bright Christmas lights.
not heavy
· You can carry this bag -- it's fairly light.· Modern tennis rackets are much lighter than old-fashioned wooden ones.· Heat rises because hot air is lighter than cold air.light as a feather (=extremely light) · She was light as a feather to carry, and her hands were cold as ice.
lightweight clothes, materials, or equipment are specially made so that they weigh very little: · a lightweight summer suit· a strong, lightweight material such as titanium· Today's baby buggies are lightweight, compact, and easy to fold.
if someone or something is weightless , they seem to weigh much less than usual, especially because they are floating in space or water: · Astronauts have problems moving around in the spacecraft because they are virtually weightless.
to make something lighter
· They had taken out all the drawers to make it lighter, before carrying it down the stairs.· Many parts are now made from plastic instead of steel, making cars lighter and more fuel-efficient.
to make something lighter, especially in order to make it easier to move or carry: · I'm sure you could lighten that suitcase a little if you only packed what you need.lighten the load: · As weather conditions got worse, Watts and Peters abandoned their photographic equipment in order to lighten the load.
when a place has plenty of light
a bright place is full of light, especially in a way that seems pleasant and attractive: · The big windows in this room make it nice and bright.· Claire had a lovely bright bedroom which was decorated in yellow and white.· We emerged from a dark corridor into a bright, airy courtyard.
a light building or room has plenty of light in it, especially because it has big windows: · The kitchen is light and airy, with a fantastic view.· The hallway led to a light and spacious studio.
a place that is well-lit is bright because there electric lights, so it is easy for you to see what you are doing : · I always try to park in a well-lit area at night.· To avoid eye problems, make sure that your desk is well-lit.
light colours
light colours are closer to white than to black: · They both have brown hair, but Tina's is slightly lighter.light blue/green/orange etc: · This is a nice jacket and we also do it in a light green.
very light in colour: · There were dark rings under her eyes and her skin was paler than usual.pale pink/green/blue etc: · Her dress is pale pink, with a small flowery pattern.· The old man's pale blue eyes moved from the dartboard to the bar and then back again.
use this about the colour of people's hair and skin: · Someone with fair skin like you should probably use a stronger sunscreen.fair-haired/fair-skinned: · The Indians were at first frightened of the fair-skinned Europeans.
pastel colours, especially pink, yellow, green or blue, are soft and light and not at all bright: · Before the baby was born Jenny bought some pretty, pastel baby clothes.· Mrs Singh preferred saris in pastel colours, such as salmon pink.
if something is faded , it is a lighter colour than it was originally because of being affected by the sun, washing, or age: · The woman wore a faded blue dress and old brown sandals.· Joe dropped a faded newspaper picture on Woodward's desk.
a small meal
a light meal, lunch, etc is one in which you do not eat much food, especially food that contains a lot of fat, so that it does not make your stomach feel too full: · She prepared a light lunch of salad and cheese.· You can have a light meal four hours before the game but only have drinks after that.
something such as an apple, some bread, or a bar of chocolate which you eat between meals: · Just before bedtime he had a snack of bread and cheese.· The children have mid-morning snacks at about 11 o'clock -- usually fruit and a drink.
informal a very small meal that you eat quickly: · We'll have a bite then go into town.a bite to eat: · There's just time for a quick bite to eat before the film begins.
small amounts of food and drink that are provided for people at a party, meeting etc: · The children walked around at the party offering refreshments.· Meetings are open to the public, and refreshments are provided.light refreshments: · Catering tents provide coffee, snacks, and other light refreshments.
to sleep badly or be unable to sleep
to wake up often during the night, and not feel rested or comfortable: · I'm sorry, I didn't sleep very well last night and it's put me in a bad mood.· They slept badly on the hard bamboo floor.
to be unable to go to sleep especially because of noise, worries, pain etc: · If you can't get to sleep, don't get up or have a meal or snack; relax and read quietly instead.· I just couldn't get to sleep, what with all the traffic and people in the street.
to sleep badly and only for short periods, especially because of noise, worries, pain etc: · The people next door are having a party, so we probably won't get much sleep tonight.· She cried all last night and I didn't get much sleep either.
to be someone who is easily woken when there is any movement or noise: · I'm a light sleeper - so I woke up as soon as I heard him come in.· I just hope your dad isn't a light sleeper.
informal to not sleep at all during the night, especially because you are worried, angry, upset etc: · I was so worried, I didn't sleep a wink last night.hardly/barely sleep a wink: · He had hardly slept a wink all night, beside himself with jealousy and anger.
to be in bed unable to sleep, especially because you are worried or excited about something: · I used to lie awake at night wondering what had happened to her.· I lay awake the whole night after I read the letter, thinking about what it could mean.· We'd lie awake, listening to our parents arguing in the room below.
to keep changing your position in bed because you are unable to sleep and do not feel comfortable: · She had slept badly, tossing and turning before falling into a fitful doze.· Do you fall asleep as soon as your head hits the pillow, or do you toss and turn for hours before dropping off?
a night when you cannot sleep at all: · After a sleepless night, she looked almost as pale and exhausted as Elinor.give somebody a sleepless night (=make someone worry so much that they cannot sleep): · He's given us a few sleepless nights over the years, but we love him.spend a sleepless night: · Tom had spent a sleepless night on the sofa.
a night during which you sleep badly, keep changing your position in bed, and wake up often: · Another restless night followed, but she determinedly settled down to work again the next morning.· I'd had quite a restless night, and breakfast didn't look appetizing.
the inability to sleep at night: · Working outdoors all day certainly did wonders for my insomnia.· a cure for insomniasuffer from insomnia: · He suffered from insomnia and was taking sleeping pills each night.chronic insomnia (=when this happens to you a lot over a long period of time): · My mother was alarmed by my fits of weeping and chronic insomnia.
an inability to sleep that continues for several nights or more: · His eyes were still red-rimmed from tears and sleeplessness.· Sleeplessness and loss of appetite are common signs of stress.
criticism/punishment that is not strict
· The sentence was surprisingly light for such a serious offence.· Some ministers are suggesting that there should be much lighter penalties for first-time offenders.
an official punishment that is lenient is not severe: · The prosecution lawyer challenged the sentence as being unduly lenient.· He was given a comparatively lenient fine.
criticism or a punishment that is mild is not strict, especially in a way that is surprising: · Many drug dealers are prepared to take the risk because they know that if they are caught the punishment will be mild.· Her proposals were welcomed by most people, with only mild criticism from a few of her opponents.
words for describing thin material
· Martin wore a thin cotton shirt under his sweater.· It was a chilly night, and he had only a thin blanket for warmth.
very thin, delicate, and usually of good quality: · fine china· a fine chiffon veil with embroidered edges
clothes that are light or lightweight are thin and not very warm: · She took a light sweater, in case it was cool outside.· In a warm climate people wear loose, lightweight clothing.· I don't think it'll be that cold - do you have anything more lightweight?
too thin and light, use this about clothes or material that you can easily see through or that do not protect your body: · It was impossible for me to sleep under a single flimsy blanket on such a cold night.· flimsy underwear
someone who is easily woken by noise
· Mr and Mrs Carlton are both light sleepers, so be very quiet when you come in at night.· If you are a light sleeper, ask for a room that doesn't face the street.
WORD SETS
absinth, nounalcohol, nounale, nounalehouse, nounaperitif, nounbaby milk, nounbar, nounbarfly, nounbarhop, verbbarkeeper, nounbarley wine, nounbarmaid, nounbarman, nounbartender, nounbeef tea, nounbeer, nounbenedictine, nounbeverage, nounbibulous, adjectivebistro, nounbitter, nounblack, adjectivebootleg, verbbooze, nounboozer, nounbooze-up, nounboozing, nounboozy, adjectivebottle, verbbouquet, nounbourbon, nounbrandy, nounbreathe, verbbrew, verbbrew, nounbrewer, nounbrewery, nounbroach, verbBuck's Fizz, nounburgundy, nounbuttermilk, nouncamomile, nouncappuccino, nouncarbonated, adjectivecask, nouncellar, nounchalice, nounchampagne, nounchampers, nounchar, nounchartreuse, nounchaser, nounChelsea bun, nounchocolate, nouncider, nounclaret, nounclub soda, nouncoaster, nounCoca-Cola, cocktail, nouncocktail lounge, nouncocktail shaker, nouncocktail stick, nouncocktail waitress, nouncocoa, nouncoffee, nouncoffee bar, nouncoffee bean, nouncoffee machine, nouncoffeemaker, nouncoffee mill, nouncognac, nouncola, nounconsommé, nouncordial, nouncork, nouncork, verbcorkage, nouncorked, adjectivecorkscrew, nouncorn whiskey, nouncrème de menthe, nouncup, nouncuppa, nouncuraçao, noundaiquiri, noundecaf, noundecaffeinated, adjectivedecanter, noundessert wine, noundipsomaniac, noundissipated, adjectivedissipation, noundissolute, adjectivedistiller, noundistillery, noundram, noundraught, noundregs, noundried milk, noundrink, verbdrink, noundrinkable, adjectivedrinking fountain, noundrinking-up time, noundrinking water, noundrinks machine, noundrinks party, noundrop, noundry, adjectiveDutch courage, nounespresso, nounethyl alcohol, nounferment, verbfinger, nounfizz, nounflat, adjectivefloat, nounfortified wine, nounfroth, nounfroth, verbfrothy, adjectivefull-cream, adjectiveGandT, noungassy, adjectivegin, noungin and tonic, nounginger ale, nounginger beer, nounglass, noungreen tea, noungrenadine, noungrog, noungumbo, nounhalf, nounhalf-and-half, nounhangover, nounhappy hour, nounhead, nounhighball, nounhip flask, nounhock, nounhogshead, nounhome brew, nounhooch, nounhot chocolate, nounice bucket, nounice cube, nounice water, nouninfuse, verbinfusion, nounintoxicant, nounintoxicating, adjectiveIrish coffee, nounjar, nounjigger, nounjuice, nounkeg, nounkirsch, nounlace, verblager, nounlandlord, nounlemon, nounlemonade, nounlicensed, adjectivelicensing laws, nounlight, adjectivelight ale, nounlimeade, nounliqueur, nounliquor, nounlite, adjectivelocal, nounlounge bar, nounMadeira, nounmagnum, nounmalt, nounmalted, nounmalt liquor, nounmaraschino, nounmargarita, nounMartini, nounmash, nounmature, adjectivemature, verbmead, nounmeasure, nounmellow, verbmilk, nounmilk shake, nounmilky, adjectivemineral water, nounmint julep, nounmix, verbmixer, nounmocha, nounmoonshine, nounmulled wine, nounneat, adjectivenectar, nounnightcap, nounnip, nounnoggin, nounnon-alcoholic, adjectiveoff-licence, nounopen bar, nounorangeade, nounouzo, nounpale ale, nounparalytic, adjectivepasteurized, adjectivepercolate, verbperk, verbperry, nounpick-me-up, nounpiña colada, nounpink gin, nounpint, nounplonk, nounpop, nounport, nounporter, nounprohibitionist, nounproof, nounpunch, nounquaff, verbrake, nounrat-arsed, adjectivered, nounrefill, nounrefreshment, nounretsina, nounring-pull, nounroot beer, nounrosé, nounrotgut, nounrum, nounrye, nounsake, nounsaloon, nounsangria, nounsarsaparilla, nounschnapps, nounScotch, nounscrewdriver, nounscrumpy, nounsediment, nounsemi-skimmed milk, nounshake, nounshaker, nounshandy, nounshebeen, nounsherry, nounshort, nounshot, nounsiphon, nounsix-pack, nounskimmed milk, nounslimline, adjectivesloe gin, nounslug, nounslush, nounsnifter, nounsoda, nounsoda siphon, nounsoda water, nounsoft drink, nounsparkling, adjectivespeakeasy, nounspike, verbspirit, nounsplash, nounspritzer, nounsquash, nounstein, nounstewed, adjectivestill, adjectivestill, nounstout, nounstraight, adjectivestraw, nounsundowner, nounsup, verbswig, verbswill, verbswizzle stick, nountab, nountable wine, nountall, adjectivetankard, nountavern, nountea, nounteabag, nounteahouse, nountea leaves, nountearoom, nountea shop, nountea urn, nountemperance, nountequila, nountied house, nountippler, nountoddy, nountonic, nountop-up, nountot, nounTurkish coffee, nountwo-percent milk, nounUHT milk, noununcork, verbvermouth, nounvintage, adjectivevintage, nounvintner, nounvodka, nounwater, verbwatering hole, nounweak, adjectivewet bar, nounwhisky, nounwhite, adjectivewine cooler, nounwrecked, adjectiveyeast, noun
Collocations
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRY
 She had blue eyes and light brown hair.
 It was seven o'clock and just starting to get light.
 She was as light as a feather (=very light) to carry.
 It’s a really good book if you want a bit of light reading.
COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES
 This design is light years ahead (=much more advanced) in performance and comfort.
 All the hotel’s bedrooms are light and airy.
· Energy is being wasted by using artificial lighting when daylight is adequate.
especially American English (=lower in alcohol or calories than normal beer)· He claims light beer has no flavor.
 the desert with its strange twisted plants and its blinding light
 a dark blue raincoat
· She ate a light breakfast of toast and coffee.
· The curtains lifted in the light breeze.
 She closed her eyes against the brilliant light.
· a light brown jacket
· She lit a candle in the church.
· A procession moved through the village carrying lighted candles.
(=lights in the streets at Christmas, or on the Christmas tree)· We went to see the Christmas lights in New York.
· Will went outside and lit a cigarette.
· Someone dropped a lit cigarette and started the fire.
(=something that produces a flame for lighting cigarettes)· Does anyone have a match or a cigarette lighter?
(=made from thin materials)· You’ll only need light clothing during the day.
· She was wearing a heavy coat and a thick scarf.
(=not dark or strong)· Light colours make a room look larger.
(=about subjects that are not very serious)· He is clearly talented at light comedy.
· a thin cotton dress
(=with only candles for lighting)· Chris treated his girlfriend to a candle-lit dinner.
(=not involving hard physical work)· He'd been wounded, sent home and put on light duties.
 the heat from a small electric fire
(=shows etc that are funny and easy to understand rather than serious)· He believes that children can appreciate more than just light entertainment.
(=not involving too much physical effort)· Try to do some gentle exercise as part of your daily routine.
(=become excited)· His eyes lit up when I mentioned the word money.
(=they start to look happy)· Denise’s face lit up when she heard the news.
 the faint light of dawn
· It was too damp to light a fire.
 the glaring light of high noon
 a dark green dress
 dark grey trousers
(=feeling happy)· Paul left for home with a light heart.
(=industries that involve the production of small goods)· Jobs in light industry are increasing.
· Elizabeth lit the lamps and started rebuilding the fire.
· Lightning lit up the room briefly.
(=not much or a lot of work) Hans has a heavy teaching load this semester.
(=a small lunch)· After a light lunch, he would take a nap each afternoon.
(=with not a lot of food)· a light meal of salad
· A fine mist began to settle on the water.
· The clouds blocked out the light of the moon.
· the warmth of the morning sun
(=ones that use neon) the neon lights of Las Vegas
· 2,000 barrels of heavy oil are produced a day.· The oil corporation announced the discovery of another field of light oil.
 The article painted him in a bad light (=described him in a way that made him seem bad).
(=with many or few people voting)
(=see or present something as good)· If you spend a year travelling after school, employers often see this in a positive light.· The merger was presented to the world in a positive light.
· The punishment seemed very light.
(=with little water coming down)· A light rain began to fall.
 a bit of light reading (=things that are easy and enjoyable to read) for my holiday
 light-sensitive photographic paper
(=a short time in prison)· We’re hoping that he gets off with a light sentence.
(=a sleep from which you can easily be woken)· I fell into a light sleep.
(=someone who wakes easily)
 Drinks and light snacks are served at the bar.
(=when only a small amount falls)· A light snow had begun to fall.
(=containing a lot of sand)· Some plants prefer sandy soils.
(=something that produces light)· The statue is illuminated by a hidden light source.
· It was getting dark, and the street lamps were already on.
· He reached for the light switch.
· There was a gentle tap on the door.
(=a lot of trading or a little trading) Shares dropped 10% in heavy trading.
· The traffic is fairly light at this time of day.
(=not take many things with you)· The idea was to travel light, so Travis allowed her to pack only one change of clothing.
 At first he thought someone was coming towards him, but it was just a trick of the light.
(=someone who uses something only a little)· Light users of the service will receive a reduction in their bill.
 the sun's harmful UV rays
 poems in a lighter vein
 Two thousand demonstrators held a candle-lit vigil outside the embassy.
· Red warning lights were flashing.
 He had only a weak light to see by.
(=not strong)· Winds tomorrow will be light.
(=without a lot of alcohol)· The wine is light and refreshing.
(=work that is not physically hard)· He had been ill, but she found him some light work to do.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSNOUN
· Read in studio Police have now named the three rugby fans who were killed when their light aircraft crashed into a field.· In the light aircraft groups, there is a similarity of performance.· Probably because of the very much greater stick forces and lower rates of pitch occurring in most light aircraft.· All gliders and light aircraft have to recover satisfactorily with the standard method.· Furthermore if Grimbergen is closed, where do the present 150 plus light aircraft presently based there go?· Today, Cessna is out of the light aircraft market for ever and Piper is on its knees.· This may well be one of those rare occasions when light aircraft pilots have the opportunity to shape something that affects them.· Ivars has built over the years a series of light aircraft, most employing a faithful Cirrus Minor I engine.
· In the seventies, it seemed that a light entertainment show on television was not complete without a clutch of catchphrases.· But as message movies began to muscle out light entertainment, Reynolds became disposable.· Moving the Nine O'clock News would free a peak slot to attract more viewers with dramas and light entertainment.· Both videos are situations comedies made by a top television light entertainment director and an experienced cast of comedy actors.· Music that could never be taken as light entertainment.· The licencee must also pick a selection of other programme categories such as drama, light entertainment and sport.· The video has been made using a highly-experienced cast of comedy actors and a top television light entertainment director.
· Chester, in particular, is making loud noises about converting some of its greenbelt for housing and light industry.· Out of this there soon came the normal development of light industry.· These communities have an average population of between 200 and 700 and an economic base of agriculture plus some light industry.· About 80 per-cent of farmworkers were women, he said, and over 90 percent of workers in light industry.· Now it is a prosperous place, making its living from light industry and the visitors who come to tour the battlefields.· Other engineering and light industries are filling many of the old mills and clothing factories.· The metal and machine industries benefited most directly, while the stimulus spread to the textile and other light industries.· They also have new light industries.
· No relaxing by the pool or light lunch over Football Focus for my lads.· They were seated, as was their custom, in the summer-house, where they had just finished a light lunch.· There is a smart àlacarte restaurant for dinner and light lunches are served in the bar.· At the 52-storey building, the 1,000 staff are served light lunches and snacks by manager Tony Gatland and his staff.· Vegetarian dishes and other special diets are no problem for Judy and snacks and light lunches will be provided on request.· Why not fix to have a light lunch here one day if ever in Edinburgh.· Dishy meals Whether you want inspiration for a light lunch or an impressive supper, we can provide it.· Choice of ALaCarte Restaurant or the Pavilion Lounge which serves light lunches and traditional beers.
· Shame on you! she scolded herself, banking down the passion, trying for a lighter note.· Keep all your meetings and get togethers on a light note by banning anyone talking shop.
· This route has been earmarked for a possible future extension of the Midland Metro light rail transit system.· Prescott said this could even include light rail or metro projects.· Chiarelli sees light rail as an alternative to widening the busy Airport Parkway which parallels the route near South Keys.· Thus, the comparative analysis of achievable stopping patterns by bus, light rail and suburban rail is well done.
· We will encourage new schemes, using light railways and trams in cities.· Kitsons' own designs for light railways, such as the Leek & Manifold in Staffordshire, were rugged and powerful.· The only other opportunity in the foreseeable future is likely to be the new light railway in London's Docklands.· If those words are retained in the legislation, those railways would still require a light railway order at some time.· The company have retained the leisurely atmosphere of the turn-of-the-century light railway being situated off the major tourist circuits.· Both produced passenger levels far greater than forecast and have encouraged more planning of urban light railways.· Local authorities are demonstrating a growing interest in light railways as a cheap, energy-efficient transport solution in urban areas.· Who knows, someday we might see the Minsterley and Shropshire-Montgomeryshire lines restored as light railways to solve Shrewbury's commuter problems!
· A light rain began to fall.· The clouds were turbulent and gray, a cool, light rain still falling.· As he walked along, light rain began to fall.· East Anglia: Patchy light rain.· The prohibition was lifted in some counties last week after light rain fell over much of the state.· Corbett trudged down the beaten, muddy track; the sky was overcast and a light rain began to fall.· We had the window open, and it had just started to rain the lightest rain imaginable.
· I have to be allowed a bit of light relief.· The fighter pilot taking a little light relief.· However, the Full Moon in Scorpio on May 16 should bring everyone to their senses and give some light relief.· It seems that the staff were inclined to regard the women as light relief from the sombre business of teaching science.· After this beginning some light relief must have been welcome.· Her only light relief was Tony, who took her out every night.· Then, for light relief, this page: murder and murder trials.
· But it works, as do the disc brakes all round, positively and with a light touch.· Some one had given his arm a light touch out of fear and respect.· This performance needed more pace, a lighter touch throughout from the orchestra and much greater clarity from the first violins.· There may be subjective numbness and slightly impaired pain and light touch sensation over the outer aspect of the foot. 3.· A novel about novel-writing, which handles its tricky subject with a light touch.· Does she love light touch or avoid it?· It was in that kind of environment that the Takeover Panel started its life from small beginnings and with a light touch.· The H-19 had hydraulic controls which required a light touch.
· Conditions in Nidri or Porto Heli are ideal, with lighter winds and flat water.· Clear skies and light winds helped cleanup crews Sunday.· The wet grass glittered and near-by a nut-tree sparkled iridescent, winking and gleaming as its branches moved in the light wind.· We are dead in the water, heading into a light wind and surface current.· A Feeling 850 Club gives sporty sailing in a sensitive boat for up to 6; she's very fast in light winds.· A light wind sprang up, and the smoke of their guns drifted over the valley towards the cemetery.· We don't provide formal instruction, but novices pick up a lot by sailing out and back in light winds.· There was a light wind and a wide sky.
· But she made light work of polishing off the shopping at a supermarket near her West London home.· Mentally and physically handicapped do light work according to their capability, but get the same wages as everybody else.· He sustained injuries to his back and was thereafter only able to undertake light work.· Most of the work is manual, and buffaloes are used only for light work in the mud of the paddy-fields.· The lighter work to which men tended to shift as they got older was generally worse paid.· And the £170,000 military breakdown gear made light work of pulling the battered truck out of the waters.· The Safrane made light work of the uncrowded road to the beer-producing town of Pilsen.· Willie Thorne made light work of the promising Nottinghamshire youngster, Anthony Hamilton, as he eased into the last 16.
· But not your place, of course: we're a good four hundred light years from your usual stamping grounds.· Only a few thousand light years.· Those late 1940s now seem light years away from the customs prevailing in present day society.· The political culture then was light years from the one today.· You will be light years ahead.· That will permit the search to reach out to 100 light years, covering about 300 stars.· We shall be seeing that quantum effects can occur over distances of many metres, or even light years.
Phrases
PHRASES FROM THE ENTRY► a light smoker/drinker/eater etc
  • About two hours every night is spent in light sleep.
  • Corbett fell into a light sleep and was awakened by Ranulf with the news that the ferrymaster had returned.
  • I'd been in a light sleep.
  • Stages 1 and 2 are stages of light sleep, just drifting off and being asleep but easily aroused.
  • Then a sudden wave of exhaustion swept over her, and she slid into a light doze.
  • He was a light sleeper, for long periods an insomniac.
  • I hoped he was a light sleeper.
  • She was always a light sleeper, uncannily sensitive even in sleep to the ring of the telephone.
  • Sunlight coming through a nearby window or the sound of an early morning garbage truck can disturb a light sleeper.
  • After this beginning some light relief must have been welcome.
  • Her only light relief was Tony, who took her out every night.
  • However, the Full Moon in Scorpio on May 16 should bring everyone to their senses and give some light relief.
  • I have to be allowed a bit of light relief.
  • It seems that the staff were inclined to regard the women as light relief from the sombre business of teaching science.
  • The fighter pilot taking a little light relief.
  • Then, for light relief, this page: murder and murder trials.
  • It is shocking that anyone could make light of child abuse.
  • Amy tried to make light of it to Amelia and Muriel, who inevitably found out.
  • He talked of the future; he made light of the present and its difficulties until Lucy lost sight of them too.
  • I didn't mean to make light of your problems.
  • It sounds as if she is making light of the suffering of the men, which is very real.
  • Voice over Nuclear Electric were making light of the delay and praised the way the mock emergency was being handled.
  • When they were mentioned, they were usually made light of, or glossed over.
  • You can not entirely make light of such demonstrations.
► on a lighter note/in a lighter vein
  • But she made light work of polishing off the shopping at a supermarket near her West London home.
  • It makes light work of a complex process thanks to a series of easy-to-use wizards.
  • Or making light work of the Mall in London.
  • Willie Thorne made light work of the promising Nottinghamshire youngster, Anthony Hamilton, as he eased into the last 16.
  • It gets light before 6 a.m.
  • Even earthworms have light-sensitive cells in their skin which tell them whether it is light or dark.
  • I stay there for quite a bit, looking round and that, till it gets light.
  • The texture of it is light but too soft.
  • The women are never outside, and the long low porch remains empty when it is light.
► be light on your feet
  • He sat down to his dinner with a light heart.
  • I pitched into the chores with a light heart, singing to myself as I worked.
  • The breakdown of his marriage to Anna and remarriage to Wendi Deng were not done easily or with a light heart.
PHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES
  • Homeothermy or Homoiothermy Temperature regulation in tachymetabolic species in which core temperatures remain roughly steady despite ambient temperature changes.
  • If you space heat then you will have an ambient temperature of 75-80°F and even higher humidity.
  • It really comes into its own with flash as the metering balances the flash against the ambient lighting conditions with great results.
  • Odour emissions are affected by wind direction, temperature inversion, ambient temperatures and humidity.
  • The ambient temperature for each day of the study was determined from local weekly weather statistics.
  • The ambient temperature in Celsius is roughly equal to the number of cricket chirps in 8 seconds plus 5.
  • He threw open a side door off the first-floor hall, and we were bathed in light.
  • First I turned off the brightest lights.
  • He gestured toward the street, the bright lights of Osaka shining before us.
  • In the bright lights of the foyer his face was clearly illuminated.
  • Instead Elizabeth spent a year at business college in St Albans before joining the bright lights of London's magazine world.
  • It had to be the cold air and the bright lights against the darkness.
  • Self- imposed pressure Lately, she has wondered if her message is getting lost in the bright lights of television.
  • Under the bright lights in the train, both boy and man look pale, lifeless.
  • Young Gilbey's passion was cars and he skipped going to university to move to the bright lights of London.
► hide your light under a bushel
  • The convergence of the techniques will cast light on perspectives and how they are controlled.
  • The different ways in which superantigens activate T cells casts light on the pathogenesis of infectious disease.
  • The incident has cast light on the creeping privatisation of the drug war.
  • The investigation explores the possibility of using probate inventories to cast light on this and related questions.
  • We use this to cast light on a metaphor of which we are given no other interpretation.
  • I knew that, in the cold light of day, he held all the aces.
  • Night-time madness isn't appealing, seen in the cold light of day.
► light/fair/dark complected► dim your headlights/lights
  • He put his foot on the accelerator and dipped his headlights.
► drenched in/with light
  • During the time she was living with the Abramses, Katelyn was happy and a big eater, Carter said.
  • While never a big eater, he did tend to snack it through the day and night.
  • They had come in the night and lit a fire under the stage.
  • The search continued at first light.
  • They left camp at first light and were in the mountains by nightfall.
  • A small flock of evening grosbeaks flew over, and at first light I heard chickadees and goldfinches.
  • It was black as night at new moon and white as frost at first light.
  • Mountain rescue teams continued the hunt overnight, and a full-scale search resumed at first light.
  • The ambush would leave its position the next morning, at first light, to return.
  • The Caribou took off at first light.
  • We have had trouble at first light with the Khmer Rouge.
  • The board just gave us the green light to begin research.
  • Doctors gave him the green light yesterday to start against New Orleans on Sunday night.
  • Everyone has given it the green light.
  • And that is what Aeneas's young son did under the guiding hand of Alecto.
  • Eddie was his hero, his guiding light.
  • Father Peter, its guiding light, was also its provider of funds and sustenance.
  • That will be the guiding light of the next Labour government.
  • To followers, he is more than just a guiding light - he is the Messiah.
  • Under Mr Yarrow's guiding hand, the reputation of the school was untarnished, these five long years.
► jump a light
  • Another was a leading light opera singer in the local community.
  • By now, Braudel had become one of its leading lights, and from 1956 to 1968 he was virtually its editor.
  • Harrison, a man of simple birth and high intelligence, crossed swords with the leading lights of his day.
  • On renouncing alcohol he was pardoned and he set sail for Darlington where he became a leading light in the Society.
  • She loves gym workouts, swimming and playing netball - she is a leading light in a local women's team.
  • The merchants were the leading lights of the popolo grasso or rich bourgeoisie.
  • This victory may set Stretch up with a world-title elimination fight with Britain's other leading light middleweight, Chris Pyatt.
► light years ahead/better etc than something► light years ago
  • A very powerful naked light bulb hung from the office ceiling.
  • Both men were armed, each carrying a naked sword and dirk.
  • He is like a naked light.
  • Obviously this is untrue - it is not the naked light that Blanche can not stand, it is the truth.
  • She likes to cover up the truth like she covers over the naked light.
  • She turned, all flaxen and pink and white, haloed by the naked light bulbs round the mirror.
  • This gives a double meaning to Blanche's hatred of naked light.
► play a hose/light on something
  • I have a wonderful play of light and shade, and the tungsten light gives a very similar effect.
  • Make notes as you watch the play of light in various areas as the sun tracks east to west across the sky.
  • A pool of light, expanding circles, merging, dragging me down.
  • A guard found him lying in a pool of blood, and a doctor saved him.
  • After they are replaced, the spent fuel rods are cooled for several years in pools of water at the plants.
  • His black telephone sat captive in a pool of light, ready for interrogation.
  • She leaves the coach and wanders through fields for many miles until between trees she sees a deep black pool of water.
  • The kind of pool of light depends on whether the bulb fitted inside is a spot, flood or an ordinary bulb.
  • Then on the fifth day, mid-morning, a pool of light as pale and clear as moonstone appeared on the horizon.
  • There was a pool of blood on the tarmac now, around his head.
► punch somebody’s lights out
  • Amid the crushing disappointment of the general election there was a ray of light for the Conservatives.
  • Besides, today there had been a ray of hope.
  • But only when a ray of light attempts to pierce this darkness does the real, eerie action unroll.
  • But the Red Or Dead catwalk show offered a ray of hope.
  • Each time a ray of light passes through a lens it is slightly weakened.
  • The Government's resignation is a victory, a ray of hope to take into the dark days ahead.
  • After a day's work, it was a bit of light relief to use it.
  • After this beginning some light relief must have been welcome.
  • All we can say is that, between them, the team eventually raises £3,450 for Comic Relief charities.
  • Cold people shake Comic Relief canisters.
  • For comic relief, obviously; but we also suspect a topical reference worth considering as evidence in the dating game.
  • Her only light relief was Tony, who took her out every night.
  • If it afforded the guardians a little light relief, the minutes do not suggest that the complaint was taken anything but seriously.
  • Then, for light relief, this page: murder and murder trials.
  • An old man who worked in a poultry store was stopped for running a light.
  • For every motorist who runs a red light, there are five pedestrians who do it.
  • It was going to sea with only its running lights on.
  • Jones still faces a misdemeanor charge of reckless driving and an infraction for running a red light.
  • Men are more likely to run a red light, forget to signal, or drink and drive.
  • The running lights flashed off and a thick silence filled up the day.
  • The bigger issue is, will San Franciscans still be allowed to run red lights across Market Street?
  • When you run a red light, a few coins save a fine.
  • But soon he could only see the lights of the boat in the distance.
  • Each has attracted his or her share of supporters who could also see the light once it was pointed out to them.
  • Five minutes later he saw the lights of a village pub.
  • From two blocks away you can see the light radiating up into the sky.
  • It was uncanny and Maggie was never so glad to see the light from her own room and get Ana back indoors.
  • One must have experienced deeply, known greatness - seen the light, as he said.
  • Sadly, for it was a lively, largely autobiographical piece, it would never see the light of day.
  • You were sitting in your seat, pressed back by the acceleration, and you saw the light beams curve.
  • Business contracts go through armies of lawyers before they see the light of day.
  • Most observers predict the bill won't see the light of day until at least January.
  • And eventually, Guinness as we know it, rich subtle and dark, is ready to see the light of day.
  • Get to the back of the drawers and cupboards - areas which don't often see the light of day.
  • I am not too worried about the new council tax because I doubt whether it will see the light of day.
  • I never sold a garment or got an order from this source, I wonder if they saw the light of day.
  • Many of Brindley's ideas were regarded as the hair-brained schemes of a madman which would never see the light of day.
  • Sadly, for it was a lively, largely autobiographical piece, it would never see the light of day.
  • The implication must be that a lot of bids are being planned but never see the light of day.
  • There's so much good stuff that has never seen the light of day.
  • A fretful wind was not enough to open them and shed light on the ruptured earth in which they lay.
  • An analysis of the results should shed light on the workings of the Northern Ireland labour market.
  • Brophy said the man was not considered a suspect, but investigators hope he can shed light on what started the blaze.
  • Eastin and her task force hope to shed light on the challenge by early next year.
  • Podesta's role sheds light on both questions.
  • The extent of Hygeberht's authority perhaps sheds light on Offa's principal area of interest.
  • Therefore they shed light on the comparative institutional questions with which we are concerned.
► show somebody in a good/bad etc light
  • A streak of lightning split the sky.
  • Sometimes there is hope, a streak of light, a blur on a piece of film.
  • The three women were wreaking havoc with their guns that fired streaks of light.
  • There was another streak of lightning overhead.
  • A string of lights on the prom Dancing mad in the storm Who lives in such a place?
  • A string of pearls was around her neck, and the bones of her right hand clutched a Bible.
  • Beads can choke babies if swallowed, and long strings of beads can also half-strangle older children.
  • Careful inspection of the image showed what looked like a string of pearls embedded in a bright haze.
  • There was a cavity beneath with a string of pearls in it.
  • When the harbor across the bay becomes a string of lights, foghorns take up the bass.
  • The negotiations were not all sweetness and light.
  • A comparison of the two will throw light on the crisis of conscience on both occasions.
  • But I have not found anything in the careful judgment of Mustill L.J. which throws light on the issues presently under consideration.
  • But my frantic, full-beamed Mayday signal only threw light on a de-iced porthole.
  • Epidemiological studies sometimes threw light on preventable causes of cancer.
  • Experiments to throw light on the processes at work must themselves be long-term.
  • Geographical comparison of patterns of lawbreaking sometimes throws light on more general differences in social and economic conditions.
  • It also seeks to throw light on the role assumed by planters and the planting lobby in society at large.
  • Life-positions throw light on why it is that some people tend to be winners and some losers in life.
  • Begin from a fighting stance, perhaps by throwing a light snap punch into the opponent's face from the front hand.
  • But the flames were growing higher, throwing light, casting dancing shadows.
  • Fossils do throw light on the history of the lateral line and tail.
  • Geographical comparison of patterns of lawbreaking sometimes throws light on more general differences in social and economic conditions.
  • He uses relativity to throw light on time and eternity, and indeterminacy to comment on free will.
  • The role of premises is to throw light on a subject; the role of evidences is to give weight to it.
  • Understanding the nature and activities of such organisations helped throw light upon issues of town identity and representation.
  • Where once they flew in such flocks that they threw shadows over the earth, they now survive in a few straggling colonies.
  • Among their routines as they trip the light fantastic at the Dolphin Centre in Darlington are the old time and modern dances.
  • He turned the light out as the clergyman left the room.
  • I take the car up as far as it will go, then turn the lights out.
  • They turned the lights out and sat in fear.
  • Would you mind turning the light out, Robert?
  • But she made light work of polishing off the shopping at a supermarket near her West London home.
  • Carmen would have made short work of Michael too.
  • Fourth placed Guisborough made short work of the opposition at Saltburn.
  • Guernsey made short work of the opposition when they won the event on home soil in 1990.
  • It is fair to warn anglers that thousands of crabs soon make short work of rag and lugworm.
  • It made short work of our Windows performance tests, WinTach, clocking up an impressive index of over 9.3.
  • The second game we pull away early and make short work of it.
  • Willie Thorne made light work of the promising Nottinghamshire youngster, Anthony Hamilton, as he eased into the last 16.
Word family
WORD FAMILYnounlightlighterlightinglightnessadjectivelightlightedunlitverblightlightenadverblightlylight
1colour a light colour is pale and not dark:  You look nice in light colours.light blue/green/grey etc She had blue eyes and light brown hair. I wanted a lighter yellow paint for the walls.► see thesaurus at colour2daylight it is/gets light if it is light, there is the natural light of day OPP  dark:  We’ll keep on looking while it’s still light. It was seven o'clock and just starting to get light.3rooms a room that is light has plenty of light in it, especially from the sun OPP  dark:  The kitchen was light and spacious. The office was a big light room at the back of the house.► see thesaurus at bright4not heavy not very heavy:  You can carry this bag – it’s fairly light. You should wear light, comfortable shoes. The truck was quite light and easy to drive. She was as light as a feather (=very light) to carry. → lighten, lightweight25not great if something is light, there is not very much of it or it is not very great OPP  heavy:  Traffic is lighter before 8 a.m. A light rain began to fall. She was wearing only light make-up. people who have suffered only light exposure to radiation6clothes light clothes are thin and not very warm:  She took a light sweater in case the evening was cool. a light summer coat7wind a light wind is blowing without much force OPP  strong:  Leaves were blowing about in the light wind. There was a light easterly breeze.8sound a light sound is very quiet OPP  loud:  There was a light tap at the door. Her voice was light and pleasant.9touch a light touch is gentle and soft:  She gave him a light kiss on the cheek. He felt a light tap on his shoulder.10work/exercise light work is not hard or tiring:  I found him some light work to do. She only has a few light duties around the house. The doctor has advised me to take regular light exercise.11food a)food or drink that is light either does not have a strong taste or does not make you feel full very quickly, for example because it does not contain very much fat, sugar, or alcohol OPP  rich:  We had a light white wine with the fish. a light, refreshing dessert a new light cheese spread with virtually no fat b)a light meal is a small meal OPP  big:  I had a light lunch in town. a delicious light snack c)food that is light contains a lot of air:  a type of light, sweet bread Beat the mixture until it is light and fluffy.12punishment a light punishment is not very severe OPP  harsh:  a fairly light sentence13a light smoker/drinker/eater etc someone who does not smoke etc very much14light sleep/doze a sleep from which you wake up easily:  I fell into a light sleep.15a light sleeper someone who wakes up easily if there is any noise etc:  She’s quite a light sleeper.16not serious not serious in meaning, style, or manner, and only intended to entertain people:  His speech gradually became lighter in tone. an evening of light music It’s a really good book if you want a bit of light reading. The show looks at some of the lighter moments from the world of politics.17light relief something that is pleasant and amusing after something sad or serious:  I’m glad you’ve arrived – we could all do with a little light relief!18make light of something to joke about something or treat it as not being very serious, especially when it is important:  She tried to make light of the situation, but I could tell that she was worried.19on a lighter note/in a lighter vein used when you are going to say something less sad or serious:  On a lighter note, the concert raised over £300 for school funds.20make light work of something to do something or deal with something quickly and easily:  A freezer and microwave oven can make light work of cooking.21be light on your feet to be able to move quickly and gracefully:  She’s very agile and light on her feet.22a light heart literary someone who has a light heart feels happy and not worried:  I set off for work with a light heart. → light-hearted23soil light soil is easy to break into small pieces OPP  heavy:  Carrots grow well in light soils.—lightness noun [uncountable]:  a lightness of touch
light1 nounlight2 adjectivelight3 verblight4 adverb
lightlight3 ●●● S2 W3 verb (past tense and past participle lit or lighted) Word Origin
WORD ORIGINlight3
Origin:
Old English lihtan
Verb Table
VERB TABLE
light
Simple Form
PresentI, you, we, theylight
he, she, itlights
PastI, you, he, she, it, we, theylit, lighted
Present perfectI, you, we, theyhave lit, lighted
he, she, ithas lit, lighted
Past perfectI, you, he, she, it, we, theyhad lit, lighted
FutureI, you, he, she, it, we, theywill light
Future perfectI, you, he, she, it, we, theywill have lit, lighted
Continuous Form
PresentIam lighting
he, she, itis lighting
you, we, theyare lighting
PastI, he, she, itwas lighting
you, we, theywere lighting
Present perfectI, you, we, theyhave been lighting
he, she, ithas been lighting
Past perfectI, you, he, she, it, we, theyhad been lighting
FutureI, you, he, she, it, we, theywill be lighting
Future perfectI, you, he, she, it, we, theywill have been lighting
Examples
EXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
  • I leaned forward to light her cigarette.
  • Osborn's Christmas display is lighted by some 30,000 colored bulbs.
  • Ricky sat down and lit a cigarette.
  • The fire won't light.
  • The old man lit a cigarette and took a puff.
  • The old man struck a match and lit his pipe.
  • The room was lit by dozens of candles.
  • We searched around for twigs and fallen branches, so we could light a fire.
  • What are you going to use to light the stage?
EXAMPLES FROM THE CORPUS
  • From the other, funnels of smoke poured with flames licking behind them, lighting the dark smoke garishly.
  • She waved for them to start and felt her face flush as she sat down and lit the candle.
  • The airline clearly agrees and is resolved to defend the freedom to light up.
  • The corridor inside was a grey conduit for numerous pipes and fittings, lit by plain white bulbs.
  • They could light no fire, and Ratagan prophesied gloomily that their camp that night would be cheerless.
Thesaurus
Longman Language Activatorlight from the sun, a fire, an electric light etc
· Light was coming into the room through a crack in the door.· a gas lamp that gives as much light as a 100 watt bulbthe light (=the amount of natural light in a place) · The light was fading, and I was afraid we wouldn't be home before dark.good/strong/bright light · The light isn't good enough to take a photograph.poor/dim/fading light · In the fading light she could just make out the shape of a tractor.soft/warm light · The valley was bathed in the soft light of dawn.cold/harsh light · the cold blue light of the Arcticblinding/dazzling light (=very strong light that hurts your eyes) · a sudden flash of blinding lightby the light of the moon/the fire/a candle (=with only the moon etc to give light) · She sat reading by the light of the fire.
spoken use this to say that there is natural daylight, so that you can see easily enough to do something: · Let's go now while it's still light.· It's not light enough to play outside.
the natural light of day: in daylight: · I'd like to look at the house again in daylight.daylight hours (=the time when it is light): · The park is open during daylight hours.
the light from the sun: · Her long blonde hair was shining in the sunlight.· We emerged from the dark forest into the sunlight. direct sunlight: · Keep the plant out of direct sunlight.
the light from the moon: · The trees looked strangely white in the moonlight.· Moonlight came in through the curtains, lighting up the children's sleeping faces.
a very bright and unpleasant light that makes you want to close your eyes or turn your head away: glare of: · the glare of the car's headlights· The heat and glare of the furnace is immense.
a soft pleasant light, especially from something that is burning: · Candles give a warm glow to the room.glow of: · the orange glow of the sunset
a line of light shining from something such as a lamp: · We could see the beams of searchlights scanning the sky.beam of light: · Maggie stumbled across the field with only a narrow beam of light from her flashlight to help her.
a line of light, especially one shining from the sun: · Use a sunscreen to protect your skin against the sun's harmful rays.· The first rays of the sun pierced the canopy of leaves above us, and the forest began to wake up.
to make a place light
to shine lights on a place so that people can see it well, or so that it looks attractive: light up something/light something up: · Fireworks lit up the night sky.· Their garden was lit up by dozens of coloured lamps.
to put lights in a place so that people can see what is happening there: · What are you going to use to light the stage?be lit by/with something: · The room was lit by dozens of candles.
to turn or press a control to make an electric light produce light: · Can you put the light on? I can't see anything!· When I turned on the light, I realized the room was in chaos.
to make a place light or shine light on something so that you can see it, especially in order to draw attention to something: illuminate something: · Small lights illuminate different points on the map.· The blazing fire illuminated the china ornaments above the hearth.be illuminated by/with something: · A small path was illuminated by low orange lamps concealed in the flower beds.
when the lights in a place are on
· Although the lights were on, nobody answered the door.· The lights are still on in a couple of the offices.
if a room, house, building etc is lit up , the lights are on inside or outside: · People were getting ready for dinner, and the house was all lit up.· In the town centre, the streets are all lit up for Christmas.be lit up by/with: · The mosque is lit up by floodlights at night.
if a place or set of lights is ablaze , there is a lot of bright light because all the lights are turned on - used especially in literature: · The yacht passed us, its cabin lights ablaze.ablaze with: · Every shop window is ablaze with bright Christmas lights.
not heavy
· You can carry this bag -- it's fairly light.· Modern tennis rackets are much lighter than old-fashioned wooden ones.· Heat rises because hot air is lighter than cold air.light as a feather (=extremely light) · She was light as a feather to carry, and her hands were cold as ice.
lightweight clothes, materials, or equipment are specially made so that they weigh very little: · a lightweight summer suit· a strong, lightweight material such as titanium· Today's baby buggies are lightweight, compact, and easy to fold.
if someone or something is weightless , they seem to weigh much less than usual, especially because they are floating in space or water: · Astronauts have problems moving around in the spacecraft because they are virtually weightless.
to make something lighter
· They had taken out all the drawers to make it lighter, before carrying it down the stairs.· Many parts are now made from plastic instead of steel, making cars lighter and more fuel-efficient.
to make something lighter, especially in order to make it easier to move or carry: · I'm sure you could lighten that suitcase a little if you only packed what you need.lighten the load: · As weather conditions got worse, Watts and Peters abandoned their photographic equipment in order to lighten the load.
to make something start burning
to make something start to burn, so that it gets damaged: · Vandals set fire to an empty warehouse near the docks last night.· Teresa wondered if the burning log might set fire to the curtains.· The Vikings attacked villages along the coast and set them on fire.· The heat from the stove almost set the wallpaper on fire.
: light a cigarette/fire/candle etc to make a cigarette, fire etc start to burn: · Ricky sat down and lit a cigarette.· We searched around for twigs and fallen branches, so we could light a fire.
informal to deliberately make something start to burn in order to destroy it: · It looked to me like someone had torched the place.
to make something start to burn, especially something that burns easily such as a gas or chemical: · The gas is ignited by an electrical spark.· If the mixture proves difficult to ignite, increase the proportion of ethylene.
to make or start a fire
· He made a fire out of old rags and newspapers.· There isn't enough wood here to build a fire.
to deliberately make a fire start burning, especially in order to provide heat or to cook something: · It was her job to light a fire every morning before the family got up.· In such a strong wind it was almost impossible to light a fire.
to make a fire start burning, especially in a place where it might cause damage: · The kids accidentally started a fire in the garage.· The fire was started by a carelessly tossed cigarette.
the crime of deliberately starting a fire in order to damage a building or property: · Police are treating the fire as a case of arson.· Brooks was arrested for arson in North Carolina.
to light a cigarette, pipe etc
to make a cigarette, cigar, or pipe start burning: · The old man struck a match and lit his pipe.· I leaned forward to light her cigarette.
to light a cigarette, pipe etc for yourself: · They're not allowed to smoke at work, so they all light up as soon as they leave.· She lit up another cigarette.
to give someone a match or let them use your lighter so that they can light their cigarette: · Give us a light, will you?· Henry will give you a light.
British /do you have a light? American spoken say this to ask someone for a match or a lighter to light your cigarette: · Excuse me, do you have a light?
Collocations
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRY
 The porch is always well lit at night.
 The kitchen was warm and brightly lit.
 a poorly lit car park
COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES
 This design is light years ahead (=much more advanced) in performance and comfort.
 All the hotel’s bedrooms are light and airy.
· Energy is being wasted by using artificial lighting when daylight is adequate.
especially American English (=lower in alcohol or calories than normal beer)· He claims light beer has no flavor.
 the desert with its strange twisted plants and its blinding light
 a dark blue raincoat
· She ate a light breakfast of toast and coffee.
· The curtains lifted in the light breeze.
 She closed her eyes against the brilliant light.
· a light brown jacket
· She lit a candle in the church.
· A procession moved through the village carrying lighted candles.
(=lights in the streets at Christmas, or on the Christmas tree)· We went to see the Christmas lights in New York.
· Will went outside and lit a cigarette.
· Someone dropped a lit cigarette and started the fire.
(=something that produces a flame for lighting cigarettes)· Does anyone have a match or a cigarette lighter?
(=made from thin materials)· You’ll only need light clothing during the day.
· She was wearing a heavy coat and a thick scarf.
(=not dark or strong)· Light colours make a room look larger.
(=about subjects that are not very serious)· He is clearly talented at light comedy.
· a thin cotton dress
(=with only candles for lighting)· Chris treated his girlfriend to a candle-lit dinner.
(=not involving hard physical work)· He'd been wounded, sent home and put on light duties.
 the heat from a small electric fire
(=shows etc that are funny and easy to understand rather than serious)· He believes that children can appreciate more than just light entertainment.
(=not involving too much physical effort)· Try to do some gentle exercise as part of your daily routine.
(=become excited)· His eyes lit up when I mentioned the word money.
(=they start to look happy)· Denise’s face lit up when she heard the news.
 the faint light of dawn
· It was too damp to light a fire.
 the glaring light of high noon
 a dark green dress
 dark grey trousers
(=feeling happy)· Paul left for home with a light heart.
(=industries that involve the production of small goods)· Jobs in light industry are increasing.
· Elizabeth lit the lamps and started rebuilding the fire.
· Lightning lit up the room briefly.
(=not much or a lot of work) Hans has a heavy teaching load this semester.
(=a small lunch)· After a light lunch, he would take a nap each afternoon.
(=with not a lot of food)· a light meal of salad
· A fine mist began to settle on the water.
· The clouds blocked out the light of the moon.
· the warmth of the morning sun
(=ones that use neon) the neon lights of Las Vegas
· 2,000 barrels of heavy oil are produced a day.· The oil corporation announced the discovery of another field of light oil.
 The article painted him in a bad light (=described him in a way that made him seem bad).
(=with many or few people voting)
(=see or present something as good)· If you spend a year travelling after school, employers often see this in a positive light.· The merger was presented to the world in a positive light.
· The punishment seemed very light.
(=with little water coming down)· A light rain began to fall.
 a bit of light reading (=things that are easy and enjoyable to read) for my holiday
 light-sensitive photographic paper
(=a short time in prison)· We’re hoping that he gets off with a light sentence.
(=a sleep from which you can easily be woken)· I fell into a light sleep.
(=someone who wakes easily)
 Drinks and light snacks are served at the bar.
(=when only a small amount falls)· A light snow had begun to fall.
(=containing a lot of sand)· Some plants prefer sandy soils.
(=something that produces light)· The statue is illuminated by a hidden light source.
· It was getting dark, and the street lamps were already on.
· He reached for the light switch.
· There was a gentle tap on the door.
(=a lot of trading or a little trading) Shares dropped 10% in heavy trading.
· The traffic is fairly light at this time of day.
(=not take many things with you)· The idea was to travel light, so Travis allowed her to pack only one change of clothing.
 At first he thought someone was coming towards him, but it was just a trick of the light.
(=someone who uses something only a little)· Light users of the service will receive a reduction in their bill.
 the sun's harmful UV rays
 poems in a lighter vein
 Two thousand demonstrators held a candle-lit vigil outside the embassy.
· Red warning lights were flashing.
 He had only a weak light to see by.
(=not strong)· Winds tomorrow will be light.
(=without a lot of alcohol)· The wine is light and refreshing.
(=work that is not physically hard)· He had been ill, but she found him some light work to do.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSADVERB
· The castle was brightly lit, she saw.· They are surrounded by high metal fences, guarded by police all day, and brightly lit by spotlights through the night.· Some other species are easily fooled by artificial light. Brightly lit city areas can give songbirds insomnia.· The room was quite brightly lit by two gas brackets, one at each side of a shining black stove.· The platform is brightly lit and filled with people waiting for the train to pull in.· In the dressing room afterwards, brightly lit by the new Tantallum electric lamps, the atmosphere was just as electric.· Instead, patronize brightly lit all-night delicatessens.
· Some streets are dimly lit by smoking torches, but the houses have only the shadowy light of candles and oil-lamps.· An old wood stove decorates the center of the dimly lit hall.· The stack swung in farther, revealing a long, damp passageway, dimly lit with strip lights.· In her dimly lit living-room she had a gumball machine welcoming Kenny and me and the many other children who visited often.· The room was dimly lit by indirect illumination.· Mira Sorvino stars in this dim-witted, dimly lit monster flick about gigantic cockroaches living in the New York subway system.· The sonar room was heavily insulated against all outside noise and dimly lit by subdued yellow lighting.· Finally, you arrive in the paint scraper aisle, a dimly lit gulag in the rear of the store.
· Balancing awkwardly on her elbows, she lit up.· Finally they turned out the lights and the screen lit up.· Neighbours raised the alarm when they saw flames light up the early-hours darkness in Ferry Road, Edinburgh.· He is outspoken, witty, occasionally vulgar, and when he smiles his whole face lights up.· I had lit up a cigarette on leaving aunt's house, without realising it.· Only when she mentions the name Miranda do their eyes light up with respect.· Only long-stay patients will be able to light up after May 31.· And the fog lighting up around him.
NOUN
· The first candles were being lit, and the stars were out.· A smoke candle was lit inside the test chamber.· Last night Lois put a candle inside and lit up a happy mouth of three significant teeth.· In a moment the candle was lit again, and I recognized my attacker.· We groped around in the darkness, found a fat tallow candle and I lit it with my tinder.· The candle was then lit by her partner, and placed between her lips.· She was smiling and her whole face shone as if candles had been lit inside her.
· He lit one of the cigars which he smoked nonstop and blew rich smoke upwards.· In the fresh air I light my first cigar of the day, and break the match before I drop it.· He shouldn't be lighting a cigar.· His own father would lie down after dinner, light a cigar, and listen to classical music.· In a sullen silence he lit a cigar and helped himself to a stiff measure of brandy.· Hill lit his first cigar of the afternoon and thought how popular his investigation should be.· He shifted in his seat, half at his ease, and lit a cigar.
· He declined the cigarette, he lit for himself a small cigar.· She flopped down on an unmade king-sized bed, staring at me as she took up a cigarette and lit it.· Dexter looked up expectantly, a loop of ash dangling from the end of the cigarette he had lit in her absence.· He took out a cigarette and lit it, finding it hard to look into her probing eyes.· Dunne rolled another cigarette and lit it.
· Once the fire is lit, it has to be kept going and refuelled as necessary.· His house looked mysterious by candlelight, as if small votive fires had been lit for some ritual.· There was a scrape as she brought a taper forth from a tin box and leaned towards the fire to light it.· When the fire was lit, the sorcerer threw a powder on the flames and said a magic charm.· The fire was lit and our group won.· In the morning, she rose early and already the fires were lit and breakfast cooking on the range.· The hearth was drifted up with cinders that had been left uncleared when today's fire was lit.
· The night sky was lit by flames from burning cars, the smoky air stinging with tear gas.
· Last month it lit the fuse on one of the biggest news stories of the year.· United lit the fuse for a quality cup tie by giving everything they had against the big boys from the premier league.· Increases light a fuse for smokers Cigarettes, beer and wine all go up.· Pat Nevin lit the fuse by making it 2-0.
· He lit the gas mantle and light beamed.· Stephan lit the gas lantern and placed it near the door.· The room was quite brightly lit by two gas brackets, one at each side of a shining black stove.· She lit the gas and filled the kettle, then warmed her hands over the lid while the water boiled.· He also lit the portable gas fire.· She was able to light the gas and make tea in the big brown family teapot.· She lights the gas stove, and makes herself a breakfast of muesli, wholemeal toast and decaffeinated coffee.· He lit one of the gas mantles above the fireplace.
· I find her some matches and try and light one, but it won't light.· Eulah Mae saw her sharply strike a match against a square match box to light a cigarette over a fresh beer.· Thus my belief that striking the match will light it is justified inferentially.· Louis struck a match and lit his pipe.· The little match girl lit another match.
· Louis struck a match and lit his pipe.· More solemn shadows flared as he lit his pipe, the sound of the drawing air strained and high.· He lights a long pipe and draws in the smoke before handing it to me.· He had difficulty sleeping and sometimes would call out in the night for me to help him light his pipe.· Only Donald was moving in the room - lighting his pipe, shaking a paper open.
VERB
· The chief means of proactive enforcement is routine sampling, which will bring to light or confirm the existence of persistent pollutions.· It brought to light chronic problems with staff and aging equipment.· This programme of research has already brought to light unnoticed phenomena of children's different abilities to communicate in the classroom.· These three cases are instances of a civilization working over its own heritage something rarely brought fully to light.· The film also brings to light the fascinating ideological battles that took place within the party.· Identification Definitions of pollution are bound up with the process by which pollution is formally brought to light and identified.· This brings to light a characteristic which most Constitutions exhibit.· There are still other texts which have yet to be critically edited and brought to light.
Phrases
PHRASES FROM THE ENTRY► light something ↔ up► light something ↔ up
  • A cold grey light made its way round the corners of the curtains and trickled into the room.
  • Fand and Liban came behind, but their spears didn't light the way, only set confusing reflections in the walls.
  • He switched off the kitchen light on his way out.
  • He went upstairs, moving slowly in his light and silent way.
  • I look for the planktonic lanterns that sometimes light our way, but this night I do not see any bioluminescence.
  • Stripes of rock tilted and shimmered in the midday light.
  • They went through, moving slowly, cautiously, side by side, using their lamps to light the way ahead of them.
PHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES
  • Homeothermy or Homoiothermy Temperature regulation in tachymetabolic species in which core temperatures remain roughly steady despite ambient temperature changes.
  • If you space heat then you will have an ambient temperature of 75-80°F and even higher humidity.
  • It really comes into its own with flash as the metering balances the flash against the ambient lighting conditions with great results.
  • Odour emissions are affected by wind direction, temperature inversion, ambient temperatures and humidity.
  • The ambient temperature for each day of the study was determined from local weekly weather statistics.
  • The ambient temperature in Celsius is roughly equal to the number of cricket chirps in 8 seconds plus 5.
  • He threw open a side door off the first-floor hall, and we were bathed in light.
  • First I turned off the brightest lights.
  • He gestured toward the street, the bright lights of Osaka shining before us.
  • In the bright lights of the foyer his face was clearly illuminated.
  • Instead Elizabeth spent a year at business college in St Albans before joining the bright lights of London's magazine world.
  • It had to be the cold air and the bright lights against the darkness.
  • Self- imposed pressure Lately, she has wondered if her message is getting lost in the bright lights of television.
  • Under the bright lights in the train, both boy and man look pale, lifeless.
  • Young Gilbey's passion was cars and he skipped going to university to move to the bright lights of London.
► hide your light under a bushel
  • The convergence of the techniques will cast light on perspectives and how they are controlled.
  • The different ways in which superantigens activate T cells casts light on the pathogenesis of infectious disease.
  • The incident has cast light on the creeping privatisation of the drug war.
  • The investigation explores the possibility of using probate inventories to cast light on this and related questions.
  • We use this to cast light on a metaphor of which we are given no other interpretation.
  • I knew that, in the cold light of day, he held all the aces.
  • Night-time madness isn't appealing, seen in the cold light of day.
► light/fair/dark complected► dim your headlights/lights
  • He put his foot on the accelerator and dipped his headlights.
► drenched in/with light
  • During the time she was living with the Abramses, Katelyn was happy and a big eater, Carter said.
  • While never a big eater, he did tend to snack it through the day and night.
  • They had come in the night and lit a fire under the stage.
  • The search continued at first light.
  • They left camp at first light and were in the mountains by nightfall.
  • A small flock of evening grosbeaks flew over, and at first light I heard chickadees and goldfinches.
  • It was black as night at new moon and white as frost at first light.
  • Mountain rescue teams continued the hunt overnight, and a full-scale search resumed at first light.
  • The ambush would leave its position the next morning, at first light, to return.
  • The Caribou took off at first light.
  • We have had trouble at first light with the Khmer Rouge.
  • The board just gave us the green light to begin research.
  • Doctors gave him the green light yesterday to start against New Orleans on Sunday night.
  • Everyone has given it the green light.
  • And that is what Aeneas's young son did under the guiding hand of Alecto.
  • Eddie was his hero, his guiding light.
  • Father Peter, its guiding light, was also its provider of funds and sustenance.
  • That will be the guiding light of the next Labour government.
  • To followers, he is more than just a guiding light - he is the Messiah.
  • Under Mr Yarrow's guiding hand, the reputation of the school was untarnished, these five long years.
► jump a light
  • Another was a leading light opera singer in the local community.
  • By now, Braudel had become one of its leading lights, and from 1956 to 1968 he was virtually its editor.
  • Harrison, a man of simple birth and high intelligence, crossed swords with the leading lights of his day.
  • On renouncing alcohol he was pardoned and he set sail for Darlington where he became a leading light in the Society.
  • She loves gym workouts, swimming and playing netball - she is a leading light in a local women's team.
  • The merchants were the leading lights of the popolo grasso or rich bourgeoisie.
  • This victory may set Stretch up with a world-title elimination fight with Britain's other leading light middleweight, Chris Pyatt.
► light years ahead/better etc than something► light years ago
  • A very powerful naked light bulb hung from the office ceiling.
  • Both men were armed, each carrying a naked sword and dirk.
  • He is like a naked light.
  • Obviously this is untrue - it is not the naked light that Blanche can not stand, it is the truth.
  • She likes to cover up the truth like she covers over the naked light.
  • She turned, all flaxen and pink and white, haloed by the naked light bulbs round the mirror.
  • This gives a double meaning to Blanche's hatred of naked light.
► play a hose/light on something
  • I have a wonderful play of light and shade, and the tungsten light gives a very similar effect.
  • Make notes as you watch the play of light in various areas as the sun tracks east to west across the sky.
  • A pool of light, expanding circles, merging, dragging me down.
  • A guard found him lying in a pool of blood, and a doctor saved him.
  • After they are replaced, the spent fuel rods are cooled for several years in pools of water at the plants.
  • His black telephone sat captive in a pool of light, ready for interrogation.
  • She leaves the coach and wanders through fields for many miles until between trees she sees a deep black pool of water.
  • The kind of pool of light depends on whether the bulb fitted inside is a spot, flood or an ordinary bulb.
  • Then on the fifth day, mid-morning, a pool of light as pale and clear as moonstone appeared on the horizon.
  • There was a pool of blood on the tarmac now, around his head.
► punch somebody’s lights out
  • Amid the crushing disappointment of the general election there was a ray of light for the Conservatives.
  • Besides, today there had been a ray of hope.
  • But only when a ray of light attempts to pierce this darkness does the real, eerie action unroll.
  • But the Red Or Dead catwalk show offered a ray of hope.
  • Each time a ray of light passes through a lens it is slightly weakened.
  • The Government's resignation is a victory, a ray of hope to take into the dark days ahead.
  • After a day's work, it was a bit of light relief to use it.
  • After this beginning some light relief must have been welcome.
  • All we can say is that, between them, the team eventually raises £3,450 for Comic Relief charities.
  • Cold people shake Comic Relief canisters.
  • For comic relief, obviously; but we also suspect a topical reference worth considering as evidence in the dating game.
  • Her only light relief was Tony, who took her out every night.
  • If it afforded the guardians a little light relief, the minutes do not suggest that the complaint was taken anything but seriously.
  • Then, for light relief, this page: murder and murder trials.
  • An old man who worked in a poultry store was stopped for running a light.
  • For every motorist who runs a red light, there are five pedestrians who do it.
  • It was going to sea with only its running lights on.
  • Jones still faces a misdemeanor charge of reckless driving and an infraction for running a red light.
  • Men are more likely to run a red light, forget to signal, or drink and drive.
  • The running lights flashed off and a thick silence filled up the day.
  • The bigger issue is, will San Franciscans still be allowed to run red lights across Market Street?
  • When you run a red light, a few coins save a fine.
  • But soon he could only see the lights of the boat in the distance.
  • Each has attracted his or her share of supporters who could also see the light once it was pointed out to them.
  • Five minutes later he saw the lights of a village pub.
  • From two blocks away you can see the light radiating up into the sky.
  • It was uncanny and Maggie was never so glad to see the light from her own room and get Ana back indoors.
  • One must have experienced deeply, known greatness - seen the light, as he said.
  • Sadly, for it was a lively, largely autobiographical piece, it would never see the light of day.
  • You were sitting in your seat, pressed back by the acceleration, and you saw the light beams curve.
  • Business contracts go through armies of lawyers before they see the light of day.
  • Most observers predict the bill won't see the light of day until at least January.
  • And eventually, Guinness as we know it, rich subtle and dark, is ready to see the light of day.
  • Get to the back of the drawers and cupboards - areas which don't often see the light of day.
  • I am not too worried about the new council tax because I doubt whether it will see the light of day.
  • I never sold a garment or got an order from this source, I wonder if they saw the light of day.
  • Many of Brindley's ideas were regarded as the hair-brained schemes of a madman which would never see the light of day.
  • Sadly, for it was a lively, largely autobiographical piece, it would never see the light of day.
  • The implication must be that a lot of bids are being planned but never see the light of day.
  • There's so much good stuff that has never seen the light of day.
  • A fretful wind was not enough to open them and shed light on the ruptured earth in which they lay.
  • An analysis of the results should shed light on the workings of the Northern Ireland labour market.
  • Brophy said the man was not considered a suspect, but investigators hope he can shed light on what started the blaze.
  • Eastin and her task force hope to shed light on the challenge by early next year.
  • Podesta's role sheds light on both questions.
  • The extent of Hygeberht's authority perhaps sheds light on Offa's principal area of interest.
  • Therefore they shed light on the comparative institutional questions with which we are concerned.
► show somebody in a good/bad etc light
  • A streak of lightning split the sky.
  • Sometimes there is hope, a streak of light, a blur on a piece of film.
  • The three women were wreaking havoc with their guns that fired streaks of light.
  • There was another streak of lightning overhead.
  • A string of lights on the prom Dancing mad in the storm Who lives in such a place?
  • A string of pearls was around her neck, and the bones of her right hand clutched a Bible.
  • Beads can choke babies if swallowed, and long strings of beads can also half-strangle older children.
  • Careful inspection of the image showed what looked like a string of pearls embedded in a bright haze.
  • There was a cavity beneath with a string of pearls in it.
  • When the harbor across the bay becomes a string of lights, foghorns take up the bass.
  • The negotiations were not all sweetness and light.
  • A comparison of the two will throw light on the crisis of conscience on both occasions.
  • But I have not found anything in the careful judgment of Mustill L.J. which throws light on the issues presently under consideration.
  • But my frantic, full-beamed Mayday signal only threw light on a de-iced porthole.
  • Epidemiological studies sometimes threw light on preventable causes of cancer.
  • Experiments to throw light on the processes at work must themselves be long-term.
  • Geographical comparison of patterns of lawbreaking sometimes throws light on more general differences in social and economic conditions.
  • It also seeks to throw light on the role assumed by planters and the planting lobby in society at large.
  • Life-positions throw light on why it is that some people tend to be winners and some losers in life.
  • Begin from a fighting stance, perhaps by throwing a light snap punch into the opponent's face from the front hand.
  • But the flames were growing higher, throwing light, casting dancing shadows.
  • Fossils do throw light on the history of the lateral line and tail.
  • Geographical comparison of patterns of lawbreaking sometimes throws light on more general differences in social and economic conditions.
  • He uses relativity to throw light on time and eternity, and indeterminacy to comment on free will.
  • The role of premises is to throw light on a subject; the role of evidences is to give weight to it.
  • Understanding the nature and activities of such organisations helped throw light upon issues of town identity and representation.
  • Where once they flew in such flocks that they threw shadows over the earth, they now survive in a few straggling colonies.
  • Among their routines as they trip the light fantastic at the Dolphin Centre in Darlington are the old time and modern dances.
  • He turned the light out as the clergyman left the room.
  • I take the car up as far as it will go, then turn the lights out.
  • They turned the lights out and sat in fear.
  • Would you mind turning the light out, Robert?
  • But she made light work of polishing off the shopping at a supermarket near her West London home.
  • Carmen would have made short work of Michael too.
  • Fourth placed Guisborough made short work of the opposition at Saltburn.
  • Guernsey made short work of the opposition when they won the event on home soil in 1990.
  • It is fair to warn anglers that thousands of crabs soon make short work of rag and lugworm.
  • It made short work of our Windows performance tests, WinTach, clocking up an impressive index of over 9.3.
  • The second game we pull away early and make short work of it.
  • Willie Thorne made light work of the promising Nottinghamshire youngster, Anthony Hamilton, as he eased into the last 16.
Word family
WORD FAMILYnounlightlighterlightinglightnessadjectivelightlightedunlitverblightlightenadverblightlylight
1[intransitive, transitive] to start to burn, or to make something start to burn:  He stopped to light a cigarette. I lit the fire and poured a drink. I couldn’t get the candles to light.2[transitive] to provide light for a placebe lit by/with something The room was lit by one large, central light. The porch is always well lit at night. The kitchen was warm and brightly lit. a poorly lit car parkGRAMMAR Light is usually passive in this meaning.3light the/somebody’s way to provide light for someone while they are going somewhere:  We had only a few torches between us to light the way.light on/upon something phrasal verb literary1to notice or find something by chance:  His eye lit on a ruby ring. I thought I might have lit upon an ancient manuscript.2if a bird or insect lights on something, it stops flying and stands on itlight out phrasal verb American English informal to run away, especially because you are afraidlight up phrasal verb1light something ↔ up to give light to a place or to shine light on something:  The flames lit up the sky. The fountain is lit up at night.2to become bright with light or colour:  At night the harbour lights up. As the screen lit up, he typed in his password.3a)if someone’s face or eyes light up, they show pleasure, excitement etclight up with His eyes lit up with laughter. Her face lit up with pleasure. b)light something ↔ up to make someone’s face or eyes show pleasure or excitement:  Suddenly a smile lit up her face. A mischievous gleam lit up her eyes.4informal to light a cigarette:  I watched Paul light up again.
light1 nounlight2 adjectivelight3 verblight4 adverb
lightlight4 adverb Collocations
COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES
 This design is light years ahead (=much more advanced) in performance and comfort.
 All the hotel’s bedrooms are light and airy.
· Energy is being wasted by using artificial lighting when daylight is adequate.
especially American English (=lower in alcohol or calories than normal beer)· He claims light beer has no flavor.
 the desert with its strange twisted plants and its blinding light
 a dark blue raincoat
· She ate a light breakfast of toast and coffee.
· The curtains lifted in the light breeze.
 She closed her eyes against the brilliant light.
· a light brown jacket
· She lit a candle in the church.
· A procession moved through the village carrying lighted candles.
(=lights in the streets at Christmas, or on the Christmas tree)· We went to see the Christmas lights in New York.
· Will went outside and lit a cigarette.
· Someone dropped a lit cigarette and started the fire.
(=something that produces a flame for lighting cigarettes)· Does anyone have a match or a cigarette lighter?
(=made from thin materials)· You’ll only need light clothing during the day.
· She was wearing a heavy coat and a thick scarf.
(=not dark or strong)· Light colours make a room look larger.
(=about subjects that are not very serious)· He is clearly talented at light comedy.
· a thin cotton dress
(=with only candles for lighting)· Chris treated his girlfriend to a candle-lit dinner.
(=not involving hard physical work)· He'd been wounded, sent home and put on light duties.
 the heat from a small electric fire
(=shows etc that are funny and easy to understand rather than serious)· He believes that children can appreciate more than just light entertainment.
(=not involving too much physical effort)· Try to do some gentle exercise as part of your daily routine.
(=become excited)· His eyes lit up when I mentioned the word money.
(=they start to look happy)· Denise’s face lit up when she heard the news.
 the faint light of dawn
· It was too damp to light a fire.
 the glaring light of high noon
 a dark green dress
 dark grey trousers
(=feeling happy)· Paul left for home with a light heart.
(=industries that involve the production of small goods)· Jobs in light industry are increasing.
· Elizabeth lit the lamps and started rebuilding the fire.
· Lightning lit up the room briefly.
(=not much or a lot of work) Hans has a heavy teaching load this semester.
(=a small lunch)· After a light lunch, he would take a nap each afternoon.
(=with not a lot of food)· a light meal of salad
· A fine mist began to settle on the water.
· The clouds blocked out the light of the moon.
· the warmth of the morning sun
(=ones that use neon) the neon lights of Las Vegas
· 2,000 barrels of heavy oil are produced a day.· The oil corporation announced the discovery of another field of light oil.
 The article painted him in a bad light (=described him in a way that made him seem bad).
(=with many or few people voting)
(=see or present something as good)· If you spend a year travelling after school, employers often see this in a positive light.· The merger was presented to the world in a positive light.
· The punishment seemed very light.
(=with little water coming down)· A light rain began to fall.
 a bit of light reading (=things that are easy and enjoyable to read) for my holiday
 light-sensitive photographic paper
(=a short time in prison)· We’re hoping that he gets off with a light sentence.
(=a sleep from which you can easily be woken)· I fell into a light sleep.
(=someone who wakes easily)
 Drinks and light snacks are served at the bar.
(=when only a small amount falls)· A light snow had begun to fall.
(=containing a lot of sand)· Some plants prefer sandy soils.
(=something that produces light)· The statue is illuminated by a hidden light source.
· It was getting dark, and the street lamps were already on.
· He reached for the light switch.
· There was a gentle tap on the door.
(=a lot of trading or a little trading) Shares dropped 10% in heavy trading.
· The traffic is fairly light at this time of day.
(=not take many things with you)· The idea was to travel light, so Travis allowed her to pack only one change of clothing.
 At first he thought someone was coming towards him, but it was just a trick of the light.
(=someone who uses something only a little)· Light users of the service will receive a reduction in their bill.
 the sun's harmful UV rays
 poems in a lighter vein
 Two thousand demonstrators held a candle-lit vigil outside the embassy.
· Red warning lights were flashing.
 He had only a weak light to see by.
(=not strong)· Winds tomorrow will be light.
(=without a lot of alcohol)· The wine is light and refreshing.
(=work that is not physically hard)· He had been ill, but she found him some light work to do.
Phrases
PHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES
  • Homeothermy or Homoiothermy Temperature regulation in tachymetabolic species in which core temperatures remain roughly steady despite ambient temperature changes.
  • If you space heat then you will have an ambient temperature of 75-80°F and even higher humidity.
  • It really comes into its own with flash as the metering balances the flash against the ambient lighting conditions with great results.
  • Odour emissions are affected by wind direction, temperature inversion, ambient temperatures and humidity.
  • The ambient temperature for each day of the study was determined from local weekly weather statistics.
  • The ambient temperature in Celsius is roughly equal to the number of cricket chirps in 8 seconds plus 5.
  • He threw open a side door off the first-floor hall, and we were bathed in light.
  • First I turned off the brightest lights.
  • He gestured toward the street, the bright lights of Osaka shining before us.
  • In the bright lights of the foyer his face was clearly illuminated.
  • Instead Elizabeth spent a year at business college in St Albans before joining the bright lights of London's magazine world.
  • It had to be the cold air and the bright lights against the darkness.
  • Self- imposed pressure Lately, she has wondered if her message is getting lost in the bright lights of television.
  • Under the bright lights in the train, both boy and man look pale, lifeless.
  • Young Gilbey's passion was cars and he skipped going to university to move to the bright lights of London.
► hide your light under a bushel
  • The convergence of the techniques will cast light on perspectives and how they are controlled.
  • The different ways in which superantigens activate T cells casts light on the pathogenesis of infectious disease.
  • The incident has cast light on the creeping privatisation of the drug war.
  • The investigation explores the possibility of using probate inventories to cast light on this and related questions.
  • We use this to cast light on a metaphor of which we are given no other interpretation.
  • I knew that, in the cold light of day, he held all the aces.
  • Night-time madness isn't appealing, seen in the cold light of day.
► light/fair/dark complected► dim your headlights/lights
  • He put his foot on the accelerator and dipped his headlights.
► drenched in/with light
  • During the time she was living with the Abramses, Katelyn was happy and a big eater, Carter said.
  • While never a big eater, he did tend to snack it through the day and night.
  • They had come in the night and lit a fire under the stage.
  • The search continued at first light.
  • They left camp at first light and were in the mountains by nightfall.
  • A small flock of evening grosbeaks flew over, and at first light I heard chickadees and goldfinches.
  • It was black as night at new moon and white as frost at first light.
  • Mountain rescue teams continued the hunt overnight, and a full-scale search resumed at first light.
  • The ambush would leave its position the next morning, at first light, to return.
  • The Caribou took off at first light.
  • We have had trouble at first light with the Khmer Rouge.
  • The board just gave us the green light to begin research.
  • Doctors gave him the green light yesterday to start against New Orleans on Sunday night.
  • Everyone has given it the green light.
  • And that is what Aeneas's young son did under the guiding hand of Alecto.
  • Eddie was his hero, his guiding light.
  • Father Peter, its guiding light, was also its provider of funds and sustenance.
  • That will be the guiding light of the next Labour government.
  • To followers, he is more than just a guiding light - he is the Messiah.
  • Under Mr Yarrow's guiding hand, the reputation of the school was untarnished, these five long years.
► jump a light
  • Another was a leading light opera singer in the local community.
  • By now, Braudel had become one of its leading lights, and from 1956 to 1968 he was virtually its editor.
  • Harrison, a man of simple birth and high intelligence, crossed swords with the leading lights of his day.
  • On renouncing alcohol he was pardoned and he set sail for Darlington where he became a leading light in the Society.
  • She loves gym workouts, swimming and playing netball - she is a leading light in a local women's team.
  • The merchants were the leading lights of the popolo grasso or rich bourgeoisie.
  • This victory may set Stretch up with a world-title elimination fight with Britain's other leading light middleweight, Chris Pyatt.
► light years ahead/better etc than something► light years ago
  • A very powerful naked light bulb hung from the office ceiling.
  • Both men were armed, each carrying a naked sword and dirk.
  • He is like a naked light.
  • Obviously this is untrue - it is not the naked light that Blanche can not stand, it is the truth.
  • She likes to cover up the truth like she covers over the naked light.
  • She turned, all flaxen and pink and white, haloed by the naked light bulbs round the mirror.
  • This gives a double meaning to Blanche's hatred of naked light.
► play a hose/light on something
  • I have a wonderful play of light and shade, and the tungsten light gives a very similar effect.
  • Make notes as you watch the play of light in various areas as the sun tracks east to west across the sky.
  • A pool of light, expanding circles, merging, dragging me down.
  • A guard found him lying in a pool of blood, and a doctor saved him.
  • After they are replaced, the spent fuel rods are cooled for several years in pools of water at the plants.
  • His black telephone sat captive in a pool of light, ready for interrogation.
  • She leaves the coach and wanders through fields for many miles until between trees she sees a deep black pool of water.
  • The kind of pool of light depends on whether the bulb fitted inside is a spot, flood or an ordinary bulb.
  • Then on the fifth day, mid-morning, a pool of light as pale and clear as moonstone appeared on the horizon.
  • There was a pool of blood on the tarmac now, around his head.
► punch somebody’s lights out
  • Amid the crushing disappointment of the general election there was a ray of light for the Conservatives.
  • Besides, today there had been a ray of hope.
  • But only when a ray of light attempts to pierce this darkness does the real, eerie action unroll.
  • But the Red Or Dead catwalk show offered a ray of hope.
  • Each time a ray of light passes through a lens it is slightly weakened.
  • The Government's resignation is a victory, a ray of hope to take into the dark days ahead.
  • After a day's work, it was a bit of light relief to use it.
  • After this beginning some light relief must have been welcome.
  • All we can say is that, between them, the team eventually raises £3,450 for Comic Relief charities.
  • Cold people shake Comic Relief canisters.
  • For comic relief, obviously; but we also suspect a topical reference worth considering as evidence in the dating game.
  • Her only light relief was Tony, who took her out every night.
  • If it afforded the guardians a little light relief, the minutes do not suggest that the complaint was taken anything but seriously.
  • Then, for light relief, this page: murder and murder trials.
  • An old man who worked in a poultry store was stopped for running a light.
  • For every motorist who runs a red light, there are five pedestrians who do it.
  • It was going to sea with only its running lights on.
  • Jones still faces a misdemeanor charge of reckless driving and an infraction for running a red light.
  • Men are more likely to run a red light, forget to signal, or drink and drive.
  • The running lights flashed off and a thick silence filled up the day.
  • The bigger issue is, will San Franciscans still be allowed to run red lights across Market Street?
  • When you run a red light, a few coins save a fine.
  • But soon he could only see the lights of the boat in the distance.
  • Each has attracted his or her share of supporters who could also see the light once it was pointed out to them.
  • Five minutes later he saw the lights of a village pub.
  • From two blocks away you can see the light radiating up into the sky.
  • It was uncanny and Maggie was never so glad to see the light from her own room and get Ana back indoors.
  • One must have experienced deeply, known greatness - seen the light, as he said.
  • Sadly, for it was a lively, largely autobiographical piece, it would never see the light of day.
  • You were sitting in your seat, pressed back by the acceleration, and you saw the light beams curve.
  • Business contracts go through armies of lawyers before they see the light of day.
  • Most observers predict the bill won't see the light of day until at least January.
  • And eventually, Guinness as we know it, rich subtle and dark, is ready to see the light of day.
  • Get to the back of the drawers and cupboards - areas which don't often see the light of day.
  • I am not too worried about the new council tax because I doubt whether it will see the light of day.
  • I never sold a garment or got an order from this source, I wonder if they saw the light of day.
  • Many of Brindley's ideas were regarded as the hair-brained schemes of a madman which would never see the light of day.
  • Sadly, for it was a lively, largely autobiographical piece, it would never see the light of day.
  • The implication must be that a lot of bids are being planned but never see the light of day.
  • There's so much good stuff that has never seen the light of day.
  • A fretful wind was not enough to open them and shed light on the ruptured earth in which they lay.
  • An analysis of the results should shed light on the workings of the Northern Ireland labour market.
  • Brophy said the man was not considered a suspect, but investigators hope he can shed light on what started the blaze.
  • Eastin and her task force hope to shed light on the challenge by early next year.
  • Podesta's role sheds light on both questions.
  • The extent of Hygeberht's authority perhaps sheds light on Offa's principal area of interest.
  • Therefore they shed light on the comparative institutional questions with which we are concerned.
► show somebody in a good/bad etc light
  • A streak of lightning split the sky.
  • Sometimes there is hope, a streak of light, a blur on a piece of film.
  • The three women were wreaking havoc with their guns that fired streaks of light.
  • There was another streak of lightning overhead.
  • A string of lights on the prom Dancing mad in the storm Who lives in such a place?
  • A string of pearls was around her neck, and the bones of her right hand clutched a Bible.
  • Beads can choke babies if swallowed, and long strings of beads can also half-strangle older children.
  • Careful inspection of the image showed what looked like a string of pearls embedded in a bright haze.
  • There was a cavity beneath with a string of pearls in it.
  • When the harbor across the bay becomes a string of lights, foghorns take up the bass.
  • The negotiations were not all sweetness and light.
  • A comparison of the two will throw light on the crisis of conscience on both occasions.
  • But I have not found anything in the careful judgment of Mustill L.J. which throws light on the issues presently under consideration.
  • But my frantic, full-beamed Mayday signal only threw light on a de-iced porthole.
  • Epidemiological studies sometimes threw light on preventable causes of cancer.
  • Experiments to throw light on the processes at work must themselves be long-term.
  • Geographical comparison of patterns of lawbreaking sometimes throws light on more general differences in social and economic conditions.
  • It also seeks to throw light on the role assumed by planters and the planting lobby in society at large.
  • Life-positions throw light on why it is that some people tend to be winners and some losers in life.
  • Begin from a fighting stance, perhaps by throwing a light snap punch into the opponent's face from the front hand.
  • But the flames were growing higher, throwing light, casting dancing shadows.
  • Fossils do throw light on the history of the lateral line and tail.
  • Geographical comparison of patterns of lawbreaking sometimes throws light on more general differences in social and economic conditions.
  • He uses relativity to throw light on time and eternity, and indeterminacy to comment on free will.
  • The role of premises is to throw light on a subject; the role of evidences is to give weight to it.
  • Understanding the nature and activities of such organisations helped throw light upon issues of town identity and representation.
  • Where once they flew in such flocks that they threw shadows over the earth, they now survive in a few straggling colonies.
  • Among their routines as they trip the light fantastic at the Dolphin Centre in Darlington are the old time and modern dances.
  • He turned the light out as the clergyman left the room.
  • I take the car up as far as it will go, then turn the lights out.
  • They turned the lights out and sat in fear.
  • Would you mind turning the light out, Robert?
  • But she made light work of polishing off the shopping at a supermarket near her West London home.
  • Carmen would have made short work of Michael too.
  • Fourth placed Guisborough made short work of the opposition at Saltburn.
  • Guernsey made short work of the opposition when they won the event on home soil in 1990.
  • It is fair to warn anglers that thousands of crabs soon make short work of rag and lugworm.
  • It made short work of our Windows performance tests, WinTach, clocking up an impressive index of over 9.3.
  • The second game we pull away early and make short work of it.
  • Willie Thorne made light work of the promising Nottinghamshire youngster, Anthony Hamilton, as he eased into the last 16.
Word family
WORD FAMILYnounlightlighterlightinglightnessadjectivelightlightedunlitverblightlightenadverblightlylight
 → travel light at travel1(1)
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更新时间：2024/11/13 9:26:24