A2noun1K

Mail

UK /["/meɪl/"]/US /["/meɪl/"]/

Definition

the official system used for sending and delivering letters, packages, etc.

In simple words: A system for sending letters and packages.

Examples

  • I received a letter in the mail today.
  • She checks her mail every morning.
  • Please send the documents by mail.
  • He works at the post office, handling mail.
  • The mail arrived late due to the storm.

Usage notes

Use 'mail' when referring to traditional postal services or electronic mail (email). It is generally appropriate in both casual and formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

send + mail

Memory hint

Think of a 'mail' box where all your letters go.

Collocations

  • certified
  • registered
  • express
  • item
  • piece
  • sackful
  • post
  • send
  • get
  • come
  • go
  • delivery
  • order
  • message
  • by mail
  • in the mail
  • certified
  • registered
  • express
  • item
  • piece
  • sackful
  • post
  • send
  • get
  • come
  • go
  • delivery
  • order
  • message
  • by mail
  • in the mail
  • certified
  • registered
  • express
  • item
  • piece
  • sackful
  • post
  • send
  • get
  • come
  • go
  • delivery
  • order
  • message
  • by mail
  • in the mail

Synonyms

  • post
  • dispatch
  • correspondence
  • mailings

Antonyms

  • ignore
  • neglect

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'male' sound.
  • Using 'mail' as a countable noun incorrectly (e.g., saying 'two mails' instead of 'two pieces of mail').
  • Overusing 'mail' in casual conversations when 'send' is more natural.