Cool MateLottery
UK //ˈlɒtəri//US //ˈlɑːtəri//
Definition
A game in which players buy tickets for a chance to win prizes.
In simple words: A game where people buy tickets to try to win money.
Examples
- I bought a lottery ticket hoping to win big.
- The lottery generates millions of dollars for education.
- Winning the lottery changed their lives forever.
- Many people play the lottery every week.
- The state runs a lottery to fund public projects.
- Last year's lottery winners were announced on television.
- She dreams of winning the lottery and traveling the world.
- The lottery has strict regulations to ensure fairness.
Usage notes
Commonly used in discussions about gambling and games of chance. Usually seen in a neutral context.
Grammar pattern
standalone noun
Memory hint
Think of 'lottery' as 'lots of money tumbling in'.
Collocations
- buy a lottery ticket
- lottery jackpot
- lottery winnings
Synonyms
- raffle
- sweepstakes
- gambling game
Antonyms
- guarantee
- certainty
Common mistakes
- Confusing 'lottery' with 'raffle' - both involve ticket purchasing but differ in structure and prizes.
- Using 'lottery' when meaning 'sweepstakes' - they are distinct types of games.
- Incorrect pluralization - 'lotteries' is the correct plural, not 'lottery's'.