book
/bʊk/ IELTSAcademic
noun
A set of written or printed pages fastened together inside a cover. A book usually tells a story or gives information.
- I borrowed a book from the library.
- She finished the book in two days.
- This book explains basic grammar clearly.
verb
To arrange or reserve something for a future time. This is common for travel, hotels, and appointments.
- We booked a train ticket online.
- They booked the meeting room for Friday.
- Please book a table for six.
Adinary Nuance
Book is the everyday word for a printed or digital work with pages. It is more specific than text, volume, or publication in many casual uses. As a verb, book means to reserve, not to write down or record in general. For example, you book a hotel room, but you do not usually book a classroom or a bus plan.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- sách
- Spanish
- libro
- Chinese
- 书
- Japanese
- 本
- Korean
- 책
Etymology
The noun comes from Old English bōc, from a Germanic word for a written work. The verb sense became common later, in the 19th century, from keeping records in a book.
Common phrases
a book of poemsbook reviewbook coverbook a room
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is 'book' formal or informal?
- It is a very common neutral word. It works in everyday speech, school writing, and business writing.
- What is the difference between 'book' and 'reserve'?
- They are very close when you talk about arranging something for later. 'Book' is more common in everyday English, especially for travel and services.
- Can 'book' mean something digital?
- Yes. It can mean an ebook or any long written work, printed or digital.
- Is 'book' used as a verb in IELTS writing?
- Yes, especially in topics about travel, hotels, or appointments. It is clear and natural.