Words / A1

KAKT-uh-s/ˈkæktəs/

A cactus is a plant with a thick stem and sharp spines that grows in dry places. Countable: a cactus; plural cactuses or cacti. A flower is soft; a cactus can hurt you. A tree is tall and has leaves; a cactus stores water. Mix-up: cat (the pet) — extra cus.

Meaning

A plant with thick stems and sharp spines that grows in dry places.

Examples

• “Do not touch the cactus — it is sharp.”
• “Water the cactus only once a month.”
• “There are three cactuses on the windowsill.”

Good to know

a cactus / cactuses or cacti. Contrast: tree (leaves), flower (soft). Mix-up: cat.

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