A1noun1K

Chair

UK /["/tʃeə(r)/"]/US /["/tʃer/"]/

Definition

a piece of furniture for one person to sit on, with a back, a seat and four legs

In simple words: A piece of furniture for sitting on, usually with four legs and a back.

Examples

  • I need a chair to sit on while I work.
  • The chair in the living room is very comfortable.
  • Can you bring me that chair from the other room?
  • She was elected as the chair of the committee.
  • The chair called the meeting to order.
  • We need to find a new chair for the kitchen table.
  • The professor is the chair of the department at the university.
  • I found a beautiful antique chair at the flea market.

Usage notes

Used in everyday conversation. Appropriate in both casual and formal settings, but avoid using it in technical discussions where a more specific type of seating might be relevant.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'chair' as a 'seat of care' where you rest.

Collocations

  • comfortable
  • comfy
  • cushioned
  • row
  • set
  • draw up
  • pull up
  • pull out
  • be placed
  • stand
  • swivel
  • arm
  • back
  • leg
  • into a/​the chair
  • in a/​the chair
  • on a/​the chair
  • the arm of a chair
  • the back of a chair
  • the edge of a chair
  • acting
  • deputy
  • honorary
  • occupy
  • take
  • address (something to)
  • in the chair
  • professorial
  • hold
  • occupy
  • appoint somebody to

Synonyms

  • seat
  • stool
  • armchair
  • bench
  • recliner

Antonyms

  • stand
  • shuffle

Common mistakes

  • Confusing it with 'stool', which lacks a back.
  • Using 'chair' to refer to a soft seat like a sofa.
  • Saying 'a chair' instead of 'the chair' in specific contexts.