Language Research

stuff · noun U

/stʌf/Full view

stuff

B1 used to refer to a substance or a group of things, ideas, etc., without saying exactly what they are

Dictionary examples:

There's sticky stuff all over the chair.

We'll have to carry all our camping stuff.

This week in class, we're discussing articles about industrial pollution, global warming, and stuff like that.

Do you want help bringing your stuff in from the van?

I’ve got a lot of stuff to do this weekend.

Learner example:

Talking about acces[s]ories, I like using caps, jewelry, belts, purses and all that stuff. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Spanish)

know your stuff

C2 to know a lot about a subject, or to be very good at doing something

Dictionary example:

She's an excellent teacher - she really knows her stuff.

Learner example:

The thing was that she should have been be able to tell them what to do; she never doubted her own abilities. She knew "her stuff" all right. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Swedish)

stuff · verb T

/stʌf/

stuff sth in/into/behind, etc.

C to push something into a small space, often quickly or in a careless way

Dictionary examples:

He stuffed the papers into his briefcase and left.

This box is absolutely full - I can't stuff another thing into it.

Learner example:

A casserole stood on the stove waiting for his arrival and the freeze[r] and fridge were stuffed full with food for the week he would be here. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Swedish)