A2adverb1K

Straight

UK /["/streɪt/"]/US /["/streɪt/"]/

Definition

not in a curve or at an angle; in a straight line

In simple words: Not bent or curved; in a direct line.

Examples

  • She walked straight to the store without stopping.
  • He looked straight into her eyes while speaking.
  • The path goes straight through the forest.
  • He told a straight answer to her question.
  • Please stay straight on this road for two miles.

Usage notes

Use 'straight' to describe something that is not curved, and can refer to lines, paths, or even honesty. It's suitable in most contexts, including informal conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Sounds like 'straight' — think of a straight road going directly ahead.

Collocations

  • straight line
  • straight ahead
  • straight answer
  • straight path

Synonyms

  • at once

Antonyms

  • curved
  • crooked
  • bent

Common mistakes

  • 'Straight' confused with 'strait' (narrow passage); they have different meanings.
  • 'Straight' incorrectly used with non-physical concepts, like 'straight answer' referring to a direct response rather than something geometric.
  • Mispronouncing 'straight' as 'strate' instead of 'streɪt'.