A2noun2K

Hole

UK /["/həʊl/"]/US /["/həʊl/"]/

Definition

a hollow space in something solid or in the surface of something

In simple words: An opening or empty space in something.

Examples

  • I found a hole in my shirt.
  • The rabbit dug a hole in the ground.
  • There was a hole in the wall after the accident.
  • He accidentally dropped his phone down a hole.
  • I made a hole in the paper with a pencil.

Usage notes

Used to describe physical openings, like a hole in the ground or in clothing. Can also be used metaphorically, such as feeling an emotional hole. Avoid using in very formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'hole' as something you can see through, like a window to the 'ole' world.

Collocations

  • big
  • deep
  • gaping
  • bore
  • create
  • cut
  • down a/​the hole
  • in a/​the hole
  • through a/​the hole
  • full of holes
  • riddled with holes
  • big
  • deep
  • gaping
  • bore
  • create
  • cut
  • down a/​the hole
  • in a/​the hole
  • through a/​the hole
  • full of holes
  • riddled with holes

Synonyms

  • dump

Antonyms

  • solid
  • full

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'whole' (the complete amount)
  • Using 'hole' instead of 'hollow' when describing a shape
  • Saying 'holl' instead of 'hole'