B2noun2K

Cliff

UK /["/klɪf/"]/US /["/klɪf/"]/

Definition

a high area of rock with a very steep side, often at the edge of the sea or ocean

In simple words: A high, steep rock face or edge.

Examples

  • the **cliff edge/top**
  • the chalk cliffs of southern England
  • a castle perched high on the cliffs above the river
  • We set off along the cliff path.
  • Steep cliffs towered above the river.
  • The cliffs fall away to the north.
  • The hotel was perched high on a cliff overlooking the ocean.
  • a long line of cliffs surrounding the bay
  • crumbling cliffs
  • Sales fell off a cliff in the first quarter of the year.

Usage notes

Used when describing geographical features. Not used in a metaphorical sense like 'cliffhanger' which is more casual.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'cliff' as a 'clip' of rock cut high into the sky.

Collocations

  • high
  • towering
  • low
  • line
  • climb
  • scale
  • descend
  • fall
  • fall away
  • rise
  • edge
  • face
  • ledge
  • be perched on a cliff
  • the base of the cliff
  • the bottom of the cliff

Synonyms

  • bluff
  • crag
  • precipice
  • escarpment
  • overhang

Antonyms

  • valley
  • plain

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'cliff' with 'ridge' which is a smaller elevation.
  • Using 'cliff' when referring to a flat shoreline.
  • Saying 'steep cliff' instead of just 'cliff', as 'cliff' typically implies steepness.