Cool MateAct
UK /["/ækt/","/ækts/","/ˈæktɪd/","/ˈæktɪŋ/"]/US /["/ækt/","/ækts/","/ˈæktɪd/","/ˈæktɪŋ/"]/
Definition
to do something for a particular purpose or in order to deal with a situation
In simple words: To do something or take action.
Examples
- She decided to act in the school play this year.
- He didn't know how to act in such a tense situation.
- The committee will act on the proposal next week.
- They act as if they own the place.
- Can you act out the scene from the movie for us?
Usage notes
Use 'act' in both formal and informal contexts when referring to behavior. Avoid using it in overly casual settings when describing serious actions.
Grammar pattern
act + on (something), act + like (someone/something)
Memory hint
Think of an 'actor' — they 'act' in a play.
Collocations
- at once
- immediately
- promptly
- against
- for somebody
- on behalf of somebody
- act as if
- act in somebody’s best interests
- act in good faith
- at once
- immediately
- promptly
- against
- for somebody
- on behalf of somebody
- act as if
- act in somebody’s best interests
- act in good faith
- brilliantly
- well
- badly
- brilliantly
- well
- badly
Synonyms
- perform
- execute
- conduct
- behave
- react
Antonyms
- ignore
- neglect
- refrain
Common mistakes
- 'Act' is sometimes confused with 'take action', which has a slightly different connotation.
- Learners often omit the preposition when using 'act on' phrases.
- 'Act' may be incorrectly used as a noun instead of a verb.