B2noun1K

Trap

UK /["/træp/"]/US /["/træp/"]/

Definition

a piece of equipment for catching animals

In simple words: A device or situation designed to catch or trick someone.

Examples

  • a fox with its leg in a trap
  • A trap was laid, with fresh bait.
  • She had **set a trap** for him and he had walked straight into it.
  • the unemployment trap
  • Some women see marriage as a trap.
  • a pony and trap
  • Shut your trap! *(= a rude way of telling somebody to be quiet)*
  • to keep your trap shut *(= to not tell a secret)*
  • Parents often fall into the trap of trying to do everything for their children.
  • The movie avoids the trap of spending too much time explaining things.

Usage notes

Used in both literal and figurative contexts. In informal speech, it can refer to being caught in a difficult situation. Avoid using in overly formal writing.

Grammar pattern

trap + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'trap' as a 'clap' - trapping something when it claps shut.

Collocations

  • animal
  • bear
  • mouse
  • be caught in
  • get caught in
  • free something from
  • hidden
  • obvious
  • potential
  • lay
  • set
  • set up
  • hidden
  • obvious
  • potential
  • lay
  • set
  • set up

Synonyms

  • gob

Antonyms

  • free
  • release
  • liberate

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'snare' or 'catch', thinking they mean exactly the same.
  • Using 'trap' without an object, e.g., 'I trap' instead of 'I trap animals'.
  • Mistaking 'trap' as solely a physical object rather than a situation.