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ply

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /plaɪ/

KK: /plaɪ/

intransitive verb
Definition

To travel regularly along a specific route or to work against the wind in a zigzag manner.


Example

The ferry plies between the two islands every day.


Tense Forms

Past: plied

Past Participle: plied


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever seen that boat ply between the islands?
Sloth B
Yeah, I saw it last weekend while we were at the beach!
Sloth A
It must be nice to ply that route regularly.
Sloth B
Definitely! I’d love to take a trip on it someday.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
sail
navigate
travel
Antonyms
drift
idle
remain
noun
Definition

A layer or thickness of material, such as fabric, wood, or rubber, often used in construction or manufacturing.


Example

The tire was made of a strong ply to ensure durability on the road.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you know that this tire has a special ply design for better grip?
Sloth B
Really? I had no idea that ply could affect performance like that.
Sloth A
Yeah, it’s important for safety and handling on the road.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To offer or provide something repeatedly or abundantly, often in a vigorous manner.


Example

The waiter plied the customers with drinks throughout the evening.


Tense Forms

Past: plied

Past Participle: plied


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you notice how often they ply that route during the summer?
Sloth B
Yeah, I saw those boats going back and forth all day long.
Sloth A
It must be great for the local economy when they ply those waters.
Root Explanation

Ply → The word 'ply' originates from the Old English 'pliġan', meaning to fold or bend. It refers to the action of folding or bending something, often in layers or thickness.

Memory Tip

Think of the action of 'folding' or 'bending' something, which helps you remember that 'ply' relates to layers or thickness.

Visually Confused Words
puly
poly
ploy
play
pily
paly
ly
Is this page helpful?
I should pay more attention to these details when buying new tires!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
layer
strand
bias
Antonyms
uniformity
disinclination
flatness
Sloth B
Definitely! It brings in a lot of tourists, which helps everyone.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
assail
offer
navigate
Antonyms
neglect
withhold
avoid