Words / B1

NUMB-uh-playt/ˈnʌmbə pleɪt/

A number plate (id: number-plate) is the sign on a vehicle that shows its registration number (UK; US license plate). An MOT is the safety test; insurance is the policy. Trips: the minibus number plate goes on the form; a nickname on a private car is not an ID.

Meaning

The sign on a vehicle that shows its registration number (UK; US license plate).

Examples

• “The minibus number plate goes on the trip form; a nickname on a private car is not an ID.”
• “A dirty number plate still fails an ANPR car-park camera; wiping it is not vandalism — hiding it is.”

Good to know

a number plate (UK). US: a license plate. Contrast: an MOT / insurance. Trips / car parks. Countable plates. Mix-up: a plate in the canteen is for food.

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