Language Research

soul · noun

/səʊl/Full view

soul (MUSIC)

A2 U popular music which expresses deep feelings, originally performed by African Americans

Dictionary example:

Their records are a mixture of soul and jazz.

Learner example:

I really like listen[ing] to Hip Hop, R'n'B, soul and love songs. (Key English Test; A2; German)

soul (SPIRIT)

B2 C the part of a person which is not their body, which some people believe continues to exist after they die

Dictionary example:

She suffered greatly while she was alive, so let us hope her soul is now at peace.

Learner example:

Finally, two very old and serious aunts, a friend of the[irs], my Grandma and a [retired] couple from our neighbourhood were ready to call any soul from heaven to talk to us. (First Certificate in English; B2; Polish)

soul (PERSON)

B2 C a person

Dictionary example:

I didn't see a soul when I went out.

Learner example:

Unlike a year ago, she did not tell a soul. (First Certificate in English; B2; Chinese)

body and soul ()

C2 used to emphasize that someone does something with all their effort and energy

Dictionary example:

They entered into the relationship body and soul.

Learner example:

If nowadays women are, for [the] vast majority, working, it occurs to me that some of them are not willing to devote themselves body and soul to their work. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; French)

keep body and soul together

C2 to be able to pay for your food, clothing and somewhere to live

Dictionary example:

His wages are barely enough to keep body and soul together.

Learner example:

Not only does he keep body and soul together, but he is [o]n good terms with his wife. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; French)