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space
/speɪs/
an empty or available area
There's plenty of space in the garage for another car.
This means there is enough room in the garage to fit another vehicle.
general
an empty or available area
The park has a large open space for picnics.
This means the park has a big area where people can sit and eat.
In everyday usage, 'space' refers to physical areas that are unoccupied or available for use.
astronomy
the physical universe beyond Earth's atmosphere
NASA is exploring the mysteries of outer space.
This means NASA is studying the universe beyond Earth.
In astronomy, 'space' refers to the vast region beyond Earth's atmosphere, including planets, stars, and galaxies.
general
a period of time or an interval
She took some space between meetings to relax.
This means she took a break or a period of time to rest.
In this sense, 'space' can refer to a gap or interval in time.
Collocations
outer spacethe region beyond Earth's atmospherepersonal spacethe area around a person that they consider privatespace traveltraveling to or through outer space
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Context Matters
The meaning of 'space' changes based on whether it refers to physical areas, the universe, or time intervals.
Gold Rule
Astronomy vs. Everyday Use
In astronomy, 'space' refers to the universe, while in everyday language, it often means an empty area.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'space,' from Old French 'espace,' from Latin 'spatium,' meaning 'room, area, or interval.'
Usage Notes
The word 'space' can refer to physical areas, the universe, or intervals of time. Its meaning depends on the context.
Word Breakdown
space
an area or interval
rootEnglish Dictionary