squeeze

Everyday

1. To squeeze means to press something hard, often from the sides: squeeze a lemon. tree →
2. To squeeze means to push yourself or something into a small space: squeeze into the car. tree →
3. To squeeze someone's hand means to press it gently to show love or comfort. tree →
4. A squeeze is the act of pressing, or a small amount got by pressing: a squeeze of lemon. tree →
5. A tight squeeze is a space that is almost too small. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life you squeeze toothpaste, lemons and oranges for juice. In science squeezing a ball or a sponge shows changing shape and how materials react to force; squeezing a bottle of air shows air pressure. In safety lessons, never squeeze into small spaces where you could get stuck, like old fridges or gaps in fences, and don't squeeze animals too hard. Phrases: squeeze in, squeeze through, a tight squeeze, squeeze someone's hand, a big squeeze (a hug).

Examples

• Squeeze the lemon to get the juice out. tree →
• Don't squeeze the toothpaste in the middle! tree →
• Five of us squeezed into the back of the car. tree →
• Mum squeezed my hand to make me feel brave. tree →
• The cat squeezed through the gap in the fence. tree →
• Add a squeeze of lemon to the fish. tree →
• It was a tight squeeze to fit everyone at the table. tree →
• Hold the hamster gently; don't squeeze it. tree →
• I really cannot squeeze myself through!” tree →

Note

Regular verb: squeezed, squeezing (drop the final «e»). Spelling: double «e» before «z», and an «e» at the end: squeeze. «Squeeze in» can also mean finding time for something: «Can you squeeze in a short practice?»