shoelace

Everyday

A shoelace is a thin string or cord that goes through holes in a shoe and is tied in a bow to fasten it. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life and safety, learning to tie your shoelaces is an important skill; loose or undone shoelaces can make you trip on stairs, get caught in escalators or bike chains. In maths and science shoelaces can be used to measure curved lines or make knots. Phrases: «tie your shoelaces», «undone shoelaces», «double knot».

Examples

• Your shoelace is undone. tree →
• I learned to tie my shoelaces when I was six. tree →
• Tie a double knot so your shoelaces don't come loose. tree →
• He tripped over his shoelace on the stairs. tree →
• My shoelace snapped during PE. tree →
• Tuck in your shoelaces when you ride your bike. tree →
• We measured the curve with a shoelace and a ruler. tree →
• These trainers have Velcro instead of shoelaces. tree →

Note

Countable: «a shoelace». One word. Also just «lace» or, in the USA, «shoestring». «On a shoestring» means with very little money. Safety: tie laces before escalators and bikes.