B1noun2K

Tube

UK /["/tjuːb/"]/US /["/tuːb/"]/

Definition

a long, hollow pipe made of metal, plastic, rubber, etc., through which liquids or gases move from one place to another

In simple words: A long round container or pipe.

Examples

  • I took the Tube to work this morning and it was packed with commuters.
  • The artist created a stunning sculpture made from a large metal tube.
  • The Tube in London is an efficient way to get around the city.
  • He squeezed the toothpaste from the tube until it was empty.
  • The musician used a tube to amplify the sound of the horn.

Usage notes

Use 'tube' when referring to physical objects like containers, pipes, or transportation systems (e.g., subway). Avoid using it in very formal contexts without clarification.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Imagine a tube of toothpaste — it’s long and round!

Collocations

  • fine
  • narrow
  • thin
  • down a/​the tube
  • in a/​the tube
  • into a/​the tube
  • fine
  • narrow
  • thin
  • down a/​the tube
  • in a/​the tube
  • into a/​the tube
  • fine
  • narrow
  • thin
  • down a/​the tube
  • in a/​the tube
  • into a/​the tube
  • London
  • catch
  • go on
  • take
  • line
  • network
  • station
  • by tube
  • on the tube

Synonyms

  • pipe
  • cylinder
  • container
  • vessel
  • canister

Antonyms

  • block
  • solid
  • cube

Common mistakes

  • 'Tube' used to refer to unrelated objects or meanings.
  • Confusing 'tube' (the object) with 'tub' (a bathtub).
  • Using 'tube' in non-physical contexts without proper qualifiers.