chain · noun /tʃeɪn/
chain (METAL RINGS)
A2 C or U a line of metal rings connected together
Dictionary examples:
a bicycle chain
She wore a gold chain around her neck.
The hostages were kept in chains.
Learner example:
My best friend, Clara, gave me a silver chain. I like [it] a lot!!! (Key English Test; A2; Spanish)
chain (BUSINESS)
B1 C a number of similar stores, restaurants, etc. owned by the same company
Dictionary examples:
a chain of hotels/stores/supermarkets
a fast-food chain
Learner example:
These days children [have] grown up with McDonalds and other fast-food chains. (First Certificate in English; B2; Dutch)
chain (EVENTS)
B2 C a series of things that happen one after the other
Dictionary examples:
a chain reaction
His arrival set off a surprising chain of events.
Learner example:
The problem began to increase because all her friends knew her secret. It was like a "chain reaction." (First Certificate in English; B2; Spanish)
