Words / A1

FLASHL-yt/ˈflæʃlaɪt/

A flashlight is a small electric light that you hold in your hand. Countable: a flashlight, flashlights. Write one word: flashlight. In British English the usual word is torch (same picture). A lamp is often larger and sits on a table; a candle burns with a flame and wax. Mix-up: flashlight vs flash (a sudden light, or a camera flash) + light as two words.

Meaning

A small electric light that you hold in your hand (mainly American; British: torch).

Examples

• “Take a flashlight when you go into the tent.”
• “The flashlight needs new batteries.”
• “Do not shine the flashlight in her eyes.”

Good to know

a flashlight (one word; US). British: torch. Contrast: lamp (table), candle (flame). Mix-up: flash + light.

Near in meaning

torch

New