A1nounhigh_frequency_chunk

Air

UK /["/eə(r)/"]/US /["/er/"]/

Definition

the mixture of gases that surrounds the earth and that we breathe

In simple words: The invisible substance we breathe.

Examples

  • The air is fresh in the mountains.
  • I love to feel the air on my face during a walk.
  • There is not enough air in this balloon.
  • He likes to play music in the air at the park.
  • You can see the birds flying in the air.

Usage notes

Used in both formal and informal contexts. It's common in discussions about the environment, health, and science. Typically not used in slang or vulgar contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of the word 'air' as something that fills a balloon.

Collocations

  • hot
  • warm
  • chill
  • blast
  • gust
  • rush
  • breathe
  • breathe in
  • gulp in
  • blow
  • circulate
  • flow
  • pollution
  • quality
  • pressure
  • in the air
  • into the air
  • through the air
  • in the open air
  • hot
  • warm
  • chill
  • blast
  • gust
  • rush
  • breathe
  • breathe in
  • gulp in
  • blow
  • circulate
  • flow
  • pollution
  • quality
  • pressure
  • in the air
  • into the air
  • through the air
  • in the open air
  • travel
  • fare
  • traffic
  • by air
  • from the air
  • have
  • retain
  • add
  • with an/​the air
  • air of

Synonyms

  • atmosphere
  • aeration
  • oxygen

Antonyms

  • vacuum

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'air' as in to broadcast (e.g., 'to air a show').
  • Mixing up 'air' with 'are'.
  • Incorrectly using 'air' in plural form.