softback

/ˈsɒft.bæk/ (bre, ipa) · /ˈsɑːft.bæk/ (ame, ipa) · /ˈsȯf(t)-ˌbak/ (ame, mw)

softback — adjective

  • softbackpositive
  • more softbackcomparative
  • most softbacksuperlative

1. describes a book whose outer cover is made from flexible material such as thick

1.形容詞B2
釋義

describes a book whose outer cover is made from flexible material such as thick paper or card, rather than from stiff boards

例句

The public library ordered twenty copies of the novel in softback format for its monthly book club.

collocation: softback format / softback edition

Chen prefers softback books because they are lighter and easier to carry in a school bag.

attributive use before 'books'

同義詞
  • paperback

    far more common; 'paperback' is the everyday word, while 'softback' is less frequent and slightly more technical

  • softcover

    standard term in American English for the same concept

反義詞
  • hardback

    the opposite type of binding, with a stiff, rigid cover

  • hardcover

    American English equivalent of 'hardback'

文法句型

softback + noun (book / edition / copy / version)

用法筆記

Almost always used before a noun such as 'book', 'edition', 'copy', or 'version'. More common in British English than American English, where 'paperback' or 'softcover' are the usual terms.