B1adjective1K

Fixed

UK /["/fɪkst/"]/US /["/fɪkst/"]/

Definition

staying the same; not changing or able to be changed

In simple words: Something that is not changed or is repaired.

Examples

  • These fixed prices give farmers a degree of financial security.
  • These accounts offer a **fixed rate** of interest over a defined period.
  • Older people living on **fixed incomes** are especially vulnerable to energy cost increases.
  • Speeders risk a **fixed penalty** of £95.
  • The money has been invested for a fixed period.
  • My parents had **fixed ideas** about what I should become.
  • Many parents have quite fixed views as to what schools they want their children to attend.
  • He greeted all his guests with a fixed smile on his face.
  • How are you fixed for cash?
  • How are we fixed for Saturday *(= have we arranged to do anything)*?

Usage notes

Use 'fixed' when something has been repaired or when it's stable and unchanging. Avoid in casual conversations unless referring to repairs or adjustments.

Grammar pattern

fixed + object

Memory hint

Think of 'fixed' like a picture that is stuck on the wall, it doesn’t move.

Collocations

  • be
  • seem
  • become
  • very
  • firmly
  • securely
  • be
  • seem
  • become
  • very
  • firmly
  • securely

Synonyms

  • repaired
  • secured
  • stable
  • determined

Antonyms

  • broken
  • loose
  • unsteady

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'fixed' with 'fixated', which means to be obsessed.
  • Using 'fixed' in the wrong tense, like saying 'I fix the problem' instead of 'I fixed the problem.'
  • Misplacing 'fixed' in a sentence, leading to unclear meaning.