Cool MateRail
UK /["/reɪl/"]/US /["/reɪl/"]/
Definition
a wooden or metal bar placed around something as a barrier or to provide support
In simple words: A metal track for trains to move on.
Examples
- The train moved slowly along the rail through the countryside.
- He leaned on the metal rail while waiting for the bus.
- The balcony was protected by a decorative wooden rail.
- Workers inspected the damaged rail to ensure safe passage of trains.
- The cyclist gripped the rail tightly when descending the steep stairs.
Usage notes
Used commonly in discussions about transportation and infrastructure. Less common in casual conversation. Avoid using in slang contexts.
Grammar pattern
rail + object
Memory hint
Think of a 'railroad' where trains run along tracks.
Collocations
- guard
- safety
- curtain
- grab
- grasp
- grip
- on a/the rail
- over a/the rail
- guard
- safety
- curtain
- grab
- grasp
- grip
- on a/the rail
- over a/the rail
- run along rails
- run on rails
- along (the) rails
- between the rails
- on (the) rails
- come off the rails
- go off the rails
- ride the rails
- high-speed
- light
- commuter
- fare
- ticket
- network
- by rail
Synonyms
- track
- railway
- line
- guideline
Antonyms
- road
- path
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'trail' — make sure to differentiate between tracks for trains and paths for walking.
- Using 'rail' as a verb incorrectly, instead of its noun form.