C1noun2K

Tobacco

UK /["/təˈbækəʊ/"]/US /["/təˈbækəʊ/"]/

Definition

the dried leaves of the tobacco plant that are used for making cigarettes, smoking in a pipe, etc.

In simple words: A plant whose leaves can be smoked or chewed.

Examples

  • tobacco smoke
  • The government imposed a ban on tobacco advertising *(= the advertising of cigarettes and all other forms of ).
  • Several different tobaccos are grown on the land.

Usage notes

Used in discussions about health, addiction, and legality. More common in formal contexts when discussing health issues. Avoid using in casual conversation where it may not be relevant.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Tobacco sounds like 'to back a car'. Imagine needing to back your car out of a smoky parking lot.

Collocations

  • strong
  • stale
  • pipe
  • chew
  • smoke
  • use
  • addiction
  • consumption
  • use

Synonyms

  • cigarettes
  • cigars
  • nicotine
  • smoking material

Antonyms

  • non-tobacco
  • herbal
  • non-smoked

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'tabacco', the incorrect spelling.
  • Misused in plural form; 'tobaccos' is not commonly accepted.
  • Omitted context; learners may forget to specify usage like 'smoking tobacco'.