English Profile

design · noun

/dəˈzɑɪn/Full view

design (PLANNING)

B1 U the way in which something is planned and made

Dictionary examples:

I don't like the design of this kettle.

The building was originally Victorian in design.

a serious design fault

The car has some excellent design features.

Learner example:

I was looking to find a good bicycle with a nice design. (First Certificate in English; B2; German)

design (PROCESS)

B1 U the art of making plans or drawings for something

Dictionary examples:

She's an expert on kitchen/software design.

He's studying design in college.

Learner example:

You know that my subject is design. (First Certificate in English; B2; Korean)

design (DECORATION)

B1 C a pattern or decoration

Dictionary example:

a floral design

Learner example:

Last year I made and sold more than 200 pairs of knitted socks and because of that I got a prize from The Swedish Handcraft Company for [the] wonderful and original design on my socks. (First Certificate in English; B2; Swedish)

design (DRAWING)

C1 C a drawing which shows how an object, machine, or building will be made

Dictionary example:

Engineers are working on the new designs.

Learner example:

To finish some of your designs on time you could take them home and continue them there or you could work for longer in your office. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Greek)

design · verb

/dəˈzɑɪn/

design

B1 T to draw or plan something before making it

Dictionary examples:

Who designed this building/dress/furniture?

This line of clothing is specially designed for shorter women.

Learner example:

It was built in 1570 and designed by [the] Italian architect Morando. (First Certificate in English; B2; Latvian)

be designed for/to do sth

B2 to have been planned or done for a particular purpose

Dictionary examples:

This dictionary is designed for learners of English.

These measures are designed to reduce pollution.

Learner example:

The end-of-conference party is designed to give rough ideas about many different cultures. (First Certificate in English; B2; Japanese)