Hobbies / B1

INSTR-uh-m-uh-nt/ˈɪnstrəmənt/

An instrument is a tool or device for a particular job, especially a musical one: a musical instrument; play an instrument; surgical instruments. A tool is everyday and practical (a hammer); a device is any invented object; equipment is uncountable for a set. Instrumental (adjective) can mean important in causing something: she was instrumental in the change. Play the piano / guitar — the before many instruments. Instrument panel is the dashboard of controls.

Meaning

A tool or device for a particular job, especially a musical one.

Examples

• “The piano is her favourite instrument.”
• “Children are encouraged to play an instrument at school.”
• “The surgeon laid out the instruments before the operation.”

Good to know

a musical instrument. play an instrument. Practical everyday: tool. Set: equipment. Adjective: instrumental in. Favourite UK spelling.

Near in meaning

tool

Topics

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