window
/ˈwɪndəʊ/ (bre, ipa) · /ˈwɪndəʊ/ (ame, ipa) · /ˈwin-(ˌ)dō/ (ame, mw)
window — noun
- windowsingular
- windowsplural
1. A glass-covered opening in a wall, door, or vehicle that brings light and air in
A glass-covered opening in a wall, door, or vehicle that brings light and air into a space and lets people look out at the world beyond.
Rohan opened the bedroom window to let in some fresh air.
open + window to let in air
The kitchen window had a crack running from one corner to the other.
Rain water was leaking through the old wooden window frame near the roof.
Jisoo pressed her nose against the car window to see the ocean.
用法筆記
Often used with the prepositions 'through', 'out of', and 'from': look through the window, climb out of the window, watch from the window.
常見錯誤
2. Something that allows you to observe, learn about, or understand a different sit
Something that allows you to observe, learn about, or understand a different situation, culture, or way of life that you would not normally experience directly.
The documentary gave viewers a window into life in rural Mongolia.
window into + noun phrase
Reading novels from other countries can be a window into unfamiliar cultures.
Mayumi's photo collection offered a window into her childhood in Osaka.
The museum exhibition was designed as a window into the daily life of ancient Egypt.
- glimpse
A brief or partial view, less thorough than 'window'.
- insight
Focuses on the understanding gained rather than the means of gaining it.
- perspective
Emphasises a particular point of view rather than a way of learning.
用法筆記
Always followed by 'into' + noun phrase. This sense describes a way of gaining understanding, not a physical object you can touch.
3. A clear panel built into an envelope so the recipient information printed on the
A clear panel built into an envelope so the recipient information printed on the enclosed document is visible through it.
The utility bill arrived in an envelope with a transparent window.
envelope with a transparent window
Christopher could read his name through the window of the envelope.
The company printed its logo next to the window on each mailing envelope.
Hoa folded the letter so the address showed clearly through the envelope window.
4. The front glass area of a store together with the products arranged behind it to
The front glass area of a store together with the products arranged behind it to attract the attention of people passing by on the street.
The children pressed their faces against the toy shop window.
press face against + shop window
Élise admired the elegant wedding dresses displayed in the shop window.
The bakery changed its window display every morning to feature fresh cakes.
A hand-painted sign in the shop window announced a closing-down sale.
- display case
A closed container with products inside, not necessarily part of a store front.
- storefront
Refers to the whole front area of a shop, including the entrance.
用法筆記
This sense refers to both the glass itself and the space behind it where products are shown. When describing just the physical glass of a store front, 'shop window' can also be used.
5. A rectangular section of a computer or phone display that shows the contents of
A rectangular section of a computer or phone display that shows the contents of a program, file, or website and allows a person to reposition, enlarge, shrink, or close it.
Wren opened a new browser window to search for cheap flights.
open a new browser window
A warning window appeared when Sade tried to delete the folder.
warning window appeared
Hamza had too many windows open on his screen and the computer slowed down.
Yael dragged the chat window to the left side of the screen.
- dialog box
A smaller window that asks the user to make a choice or enter information.
- panel
A section of the screen within a program that cannot usually be moved independently.
用法筆記
Different operating systems may use related terms such as 'panel', 'dialog box', or 'tab'. A 'pop-up window' opens automatically, often for advertisements or alerts.
常見錯誤
6. A limited stretch of time in which a particular action is possible or a favourab
A limited stretch of time in which a particular action is possible or a favourable chance is present, after which the chance is no longer there.
The team had a narrow window of opportunity to launch the product before Christmas.
narrow window of opportunity
Jason knew the window of opportunity for buying cheap shares would not last long.
There is only a short window for submitting applications to the scholarship program.
If you miss the weather window, the sailing trip will have to be cancelled.
- opportunity
A general term; 'window' emphasises that the opportunity is time-limited.
- opening
Suggests a chance to start something, often less time-pressured than 'window'.
- slot
A specific scheduled period, often used for appointments or bookings.
用法筆記
Most commonly used in the fixed collocation 'window of opportunity'. Can also appear as 'window for [action]' followed by a gerund: 'window for applying', 'window for booking'.