previous / next
light ~ light
[the same pronunciation -- the letters 'li' rhyme with the word "lie", and the letter 'gh' are silent]
“Light”, as a noun, means ‘the natural or artificial force (from the sun or a lamp) that makes things visible so that we can see with our eyes (opposite of dark)’; and as a verb, it is ‘to cause to begin to burn or to give out light’ — light – lit/lighted – lit/lighted – lighting’,
e.g.
You need more light to read this small print.
There is a light on in his room, so he must still be in his room.
He lit up his cigarette and drew a long puff.
Can I have a light, please?
[i.e. asking for a match box or cigarette lighter to light one’s cigarette or cigar; not ‘Can I have a fire, please?’]
[In British English the usual past and past participle form of ‘light’ is ‘lit’. And ‘lighted is mainly used as an adjective before a noun. COMPARE: ‘It was dark inside the cave, so I lit a match.’ & ‘She was holding a lighted candle to show him the way.’]
____________________
“Light” (adjective & the opposite of ‘heavy’) is ‘(of something or someone) having little weight; (of something) easy to do; not serious; (of food) without much fat or oil, or spices, such as pepper; (the opposite of dark colour) pale; not gaudy, or too thick or too dark or bright in colour’,
e.g.
This suitcase is very light; even a child can lift it.
e.g.
His doctor advised him to take light food.
e.g.
She likes to wear light colour dresses, whereas her younger sister likes dark colour dresses.
<<< Back to List L / Next loan ~ lone >>>
<<< Back to main page
