tongs

IPA/tɒŋz/
KK[tˈɑŋz]IPA/tɑːŋz/

tongs — noun

1. a handheld implement with two metal arms that pivot at a hinge, so that squeezin

1.名詞B1
釋義

a handheld implement with two metal arms that pivot at a hinge, so that squeezing the handles brings the tips together to grip objects firmly

例句

The chef used a pair of tongs to lift the hot steak off the grill.

collocation: a pair of tongs

My grandmother reached for the coal tongs to add another lump to the fire.

collocation: coal tongs

同義詞
  • grabbers

    informal; less common than tongs

  • pincers

    for gripping and pulling, not lifting — different action

文法句型

a pair of tongs

tongs + for + noun

用法筆記

Tongs are always referred to in the plural form; use 'a pair of tongs' to refer to a single tool.

常見錯誤

❌I need a tong to pick up the ice.
✅I need a pair of tongs to pick up the ice.
💡'tongs' is always plural, like 'scissors' or 'trousers'.

2. a heated styling tool shaped like a cylinder, used to twist and curl hair into r

2.名詞B1
釋義

a heated styling tool shaped like a cylinder, used to twist and curl hair into ringlets or waves

例句

Lin turned on her curling tongs and waited for the heat before curling her hair.

collocation: curling tongs

The hairdresser used a pair of curling tongs to give the bride soft, bouncy curls.

collocation: a pair of curling tongs

同義詞

文法句型

a pair of curling tongs

curling tongs

用法筆記

In American English, this tool is usually called a 'curling iron' or 'curling wand' rather than 'curling tongs'.

常見錯誤

❌She bought a curling tong.
✅She bought a pair of curling tongs.
💡like all tongs, the word is always in plural form.