Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/ɡlæs pleɪt/

Meaning and Usage

A "glass plate" refers to a flat, typically round or rectangular piece of glass used for various purposes, ranging from serving food to scientific applications, such as photography or microscopy. In terms of frequency, the term is relatively common in both written and spoken contexts, though it may more frequently appear in written form in specific fields like cooking, art, or laboratory settings.

Example Sentences: 1. I placed the cake on a beautiful glass plate for the party.
(Puse la tarta en un hermoso plato de vidrio para la fiesta.)

1. The artist used a glass plate to create a unique print.
   (El artista usó una placa de vidrio para crear una impresión única.)

2. Be careful with that glass plate; it's very delicate.
   (Ten cuidado con esa placa de vidrio; es muy delicada.)

Idiomatic Expressions

Although "glass plate" itself may not be frequently used within idiomatic expressions, the term "glass" is commonly associated with various idiomatic phrases in English. Here are some idiomatic expressions involving "glass":

1. "Can't see the glass for the trees"
   This means being unable to see a situation clearly because of distractions.
   (No puedo ver el cristal por los árboles.)

2. "Glass is half full/half empty"
   This phrase reflects a person's outlook on life, whether optimistic or pessimistic.
   (El vaso está medio lleno/medio vacío.)

3. "Throw glass at someone"
   This expression means to criticize someone harshly or to express disapproval.
   (Lanzar cristal a alguien significa criticar a alguien duramente.)

4. "Glass house"
   Refers to a situation where one's vulnerabilities or mistakes are exposed.
   (Casa de cristal se refiere a una situación donde las vulnerabilidades de uno están expuestas.)

5. "Walk on broken glass"
   This idiom signifies going through a difficult or painful situation.
   (Caminar sobre cristales rotos significa pasar por una situación difícil o dolorosa.)

Etymology

The term "glass" originates from the Old English glæs, which means a transparent substance, while "plate" comes from Middle English plat and Old French platte, which means flat, level, or a slab. Together, "glass plate" combines these roots to describe a flat piece made of glass.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms:
- Glass disc
- Glass panel
- Glass slab

Antonyms:
- Plastic plate
- Metal plate
- Ceramic plate