Words / B1

PENSLK-ays/ˈpensl keɪs/

A pencil case (id: pencil-case) is a small case for pens, pencils, and a rubber. A pencil is one tool; a rucksack is the big bag. Exams: a clear pencil case is for the hall; a bulky tin still goes in the bag at the front.

Meaning

A small case for pens, pencils, and a rubber.

Examples

• “A clear pencil case is for the exam; a bulky tin still goes in the bag at the front.”
• “A pencil case in Year 7 still needs a name; a tin of felt tips is art, not the English pen.”

Good to know

a pencil case. Contrast: a pencil / a rucksack. Exams / class. Countable cases. Mix-up: a case can mean a box or a legal case; a pencil case is the stationery pouch.

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