B2verb 1K

Cast

UK /["/kɑːst/","/kɑːsts/","/ˈkɑːstɪŋ/"]/ US /["/kæst/","/kæsts/","/ˈkæstɪŋ/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

to look, smile, etc. in a particular direction

Listen to definition

In simple words: To throw something or to put it somewhere.

Examples

• She decided to cast her line into the lake hoping to catch some fish.
• The director will cast the lead role in the upcoming movie next week.
• The sun began to cast long shadows as it set behind the mountains.
• He was excited to cast his vote in the election.
• The actor was cast in a popular television series after auditioning for several weeks.
• During the play, the magician will cast a spell that astonishes the audience.
• The team must cast its doubts aside and focus on the task at hand.
• A large cast was used to mold the sculpture from bronze.

Usage notes

Used in various contexts, like throwing a fishing line or acting in a play. Not usually used in very casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

cast + object

Memory hint

Think of 'cast' like throwing a fishing line — you cast it out into the water.

Collocations

• cast a spell
• cast a vote
• cast a net
• cast doubt
• cast a shadow

Synonyms

• shed

Antonyms

• catch
• receive

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'caused' in pronunciation.
• Used with incorrect verbs, e.g., saying 'cast a picture' instead of 'cast a role'.
• Misunderstanding the past tense; the past form is 'cast', not 'casted'.