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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.’]

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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.

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About the Author:BC Kumar

BC Kumar, an English Language Teacher, taught in numerous countries including Ethiopia, Oman and India, shares his knowledge and passion for the English Language. Disclaimer: This is a free educational website and all content has been compiled by the author. All copyrights to images and videos belong to their respective owners.

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