C1noun3K

Cabinet

UK /["/ˈkæbɪnət/"]/US /["/ˈkæbɪnət/"]/

Definition

a group of senior members of a government that is responsible for advising and deciding on government policy

In simple words: A piece of furniture with shelves and doors used to store things.

Examples

  • The president announced a reshuffling of his cabinet to include more diverse voices.
  • She carefully organized the kitchen cabinet to maximize storage space.
  • The cabinet approved the new policy unanimously after hours of debate.
  • He displayed his collection of rare artifacts in a glass cabinet.
  • The cabinet members are scheduled to meet every week to discuss ongoing issues.

Usage notes

Use 'cabinet' when talking about storage furniture in homes or offices. Avoid using it in very casual conversations where simpler terms like 'box' might be more appropriate.

Grammar pattern

cabinet + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'cab' where you put your 'net' of things!

Collocations

  • full
  • inner
  • shadow
  • appoint
  • choose
  • form
  • meet
  • discuss something
  • appointee
  • member
  • minister
  • glass
  • maple
  • oak
  • door
  • drawer
  • in a/​the cabinet

Synonyms

  • cupboard
  • locker
  • closet
  • case

Antonyms

  • open space
  • chaos

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'drawers' when referring to storage.
  • Use 'cabinet' instead of 'closet' when referring to a built-in space.