Concrete: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to a strong, solid building material made by mixing cement, sand, gravel, and water, commonly used for constructing foundations, roads, and buildings.

• The workers poured the concrete to create the building's foundation.
• The new bridge is made entirely of reinforced concrete.

Refers to the powdery substance made from limestone and clay that acts as a binder when mixed with water to form concrete or mortar.

• We need to buy cement for the construction project.
• The mason uses cement to bind the bricks.

Often used to describe the mixture of cement, lime, sand, and water used to bond bricks or stones together.

• The bricks are held in place with mortar.
• The wall was repaired with fresh mortar.

Refers to a pasty substance made from a mixture of lime or gypsum, water, and sand, used for coating walls and ceilings.

• The walls were covered in a smooth layer of plaster.
• She applied plaster to the cracks in the ceiling.

When you need to describe something that is real and tangible, not abstract or theoretical.

• The building was made of concrete.
• She provided concrete evidence to support her claim.

Useful when referring to something particular or when being detailed about something.

• She had a specific reason for leaving early.
• Can you be more specific about what you need?

When you need to indicate something that is clearly defined or precise without any ambiguity.

• We need a definite answer by tomorrow.
• There is a definite plan in place.

Used to emphasize the reality of something, often in contrast to what was expected or assumed.

• The actual cost was much higher than we anticipated.
• I was surprised by the actual size of the room.