Useful English Word or Phrase to Boost Your English: Shades

What does it mean?

This is an informal noun used as a short way of saying sunglasses. It refers to the dark eyewear used to protect the eyes from the sun.

Is it positive or negative?

It is neutral, used as a casual alternative to the formal term 'sunglasses.'

When do you use it?

You use it in casual conversation, particularly when talking about summer, fashion, or needing to protect your eyes. It is common in both the US and UK.

Examples

Example 1: It's really bright outside; I should have brought my shades with me.

Example 2: I bought a great new pair of designer shades on my last holiday.

Question for you

Do you find it more challenging to learn informal words like shades or grammatical tools like the suffix -ish?

Are you looking for English speaking practice online?

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