A1noun1K

Object

UK /["/ˈɒbdʒɪkt//ˈɒbdʒekt/"]/US /["/ˈɑːbdʒɪkt//ˈɑːbdʒekt/"]/

Definition

a thing that can be seen and touched, but is not alive

In simple words: A thing you can see or touch.

Examples

  • The teacher placed an object on the desk for the students to examine.
  • This shiny object caught my eye as we walked past the store.
  • In art class, we learned how to create a sculpture from an everyday object.
  • The main object of the game is to collect all the coins.
  • He had a clear object in mind when he started the project.

Usage notes

The word 'object' can refer to physical things or concepts. In formal writing, it's often used in philosophical or scientific contexts. Avoid using it in casual conversation where simpler words like 'thing' or 'item' might be more appropriate.

Grammar pattern

object + verb (like 'see')

Memory hint

Think of an 'object' like an 'ob-ject': something you can 'ob'serve or 'ject' in your hand.

Collocations

  • inanimate
  • solid
  • three-dimensional
  • main
  • primary
  • principal
  • lesson
  • the object of the exercise
  • the object of the game

Synonyms

  • item
  • thing
  • entity
  • artifact
  • component

Antonyms

  • subject
  • idea

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'subject' — an object is a thing, while a subject is what a sentence is about.
  • Using 'object' when referring to emotions or ideas, which can be vague.
  • Confusing the verb form 'to object' with the noun 'object'.