Let Tom teach you 5 different uses of ‘flat’ in this English In A Minute.
Tom
Let’s look at some different ways to use the word flat.
As an adjective, flat can mean level – something that doesn’t go up or down.
This table is flat.
We can also use flat as adverb. It refers to something which is lying horizontally.
The book is lying horizontally!
Or: It’s lying flat.
When we feel sad, or dull, or we lack emotion, we can say that we feel flat.
I feel flat because I can’t go outside today!
As a noun, a flat is also a place we live.
We could also say apartment.
I live in a flat in London.
We can also use flat after a period of time to emphasise how quickly something can be done.
5 uses of ‘flat’
1. As an adjective, flat can means something that doesn’t go up or down.
- This table is flat.
- The roof is flat.
2. As an adverb, it refers to something which is lying horizontally.
- The dog is lying flat.
- The book is flat on the table.
3. When we feel sad, we can say we feel flat.
- I feel flat because my phone doesn’t work.
- She left me feeling flat with her harsh words.
4. Flat can also mean apartment.
- I live in a flat.
- I’d rather live in a house than a flat.
5. We can also use flat after a period of time to emphasise how quickly something can be done.
- You can drive to my house in five minutes flat.
- He cooks pancakes in a minute flat.