C1noun10K+

Bass

UK //bɑːs//US //bæs//

Definition

A type of fish found in freshwater, or a low sound in music.

In simple words: A type of fish or a low sound in music.

Examples

  • I caught a big bass while fishing in the lake.
  • The bassist played a deep bass line that shook the room.
  • We saw a bass swimming near the surface of the water.
  • Her voice has a rich bass quality that captivates the audience.
  • During the concert, the bass speaker vibrated with powerful music.

Usage notes

Use 'bass' to refer to the fish in conversational contexts. In music, it often describes low-frequency sounds. Be cautious with pronunciation; 'bass' (the fish) is pronounced like 'mass', while 'bass' (the sound) rhymes with 'face'.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Remember 'bass' as the fish that swims 'low' and the sound that is 'deep' in music.

Collocations

  • catch a bass
  • play bass
  • bass guitar
  • bass line
  • deep bass

Synonyms

  • bass fish
  • low-frequency sound
  • basso

Antonyms

  • treble
  • alto

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'base' which means foundation or bottom layer.
  • Mispronounce 'bass' when referring to music, saying it like the fish.
  • Mixing up the types of 'bass' in art and music contexts.