A2noun1K

Guest

UK /["/ɡest/"]/US /["/ɡest/"]/

Definition

a person that you have invited to your house or to a particular event that you are paying for

In simple words: A person who is invited to visit or stay somewhere.

Examples

  • We have a special guest coming to our party tonight.
  • As a guest, you can take anything from the buffet.
  • The hotel has many guests staying for the conference.
  • It's important to treat your guest with kindness and respect.
  • The artist was a guest on the popular radio show last week.

Usage notes

Use 'guest' for formal and informal occasions. It's appropriate for events like parties, weddings, or in contexts relating to hospitality. Avoid using 'guest' in casual conversations where 'friend' or 'visitor' might be more suitable.

Grammar pattern

guest + noun (e.g., guest room, guest list)

Memory hint

Think of a 'guest' as someone you want to impress; they 'guys-t' you in their home!

Collocations

  • house
  • honoured/​honored
  • welcome
  • be
  • have
  • invite
  • bathroom
  • bed
  • bedroom
  • hotel
  • frequent
  • regular
  • special
  • featured
  • mystery
  • star
  • artist
  • conductor
  • our next guest
  • distinguished
  • important
  • chief
  • greet
  • welcome
  • accommodate
  • arrive
  • attend something
  • book
  • list
  • a guest of honour/​honor
  • somebody’s personal guest

Synonyms

  • visitor
  • attendee
  • invitee
  • patron

Antonyms

  • host
  • enemy

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'guest' with 'host' — remember, a guest is invited, while a host invites.
  • Using 'guests' incorrectly in singular contexts — 'guest' refers to one person, 'guests' to multiple.
  • Omitting the word 'a' before 'guest' in sentences — e.g., 'He is guest' should be 'He is a guest.'