library

noun/ˈlaɪbrəri/ 🔊 listen

library is a trap: in many languages a similar word means “bookshop”, but a library is where you borrow books, not buy them. (To buy books → bookshop / bookstore.)

📖 Meanings

1a library (you borrow books)
"I study at the library." — (borrow)
2a collection (e.g. of music)
"a large music library" — (collection)
3TRAP: NOT 'bookshop' → use bookshop
"I bought it at a bookshop. (NOT library)" — (bookshop = buy)

🔄 Often confused

library vs bookshop →borrow vs buy →library vs bookstore →

💬 Phrases

public libraryat the librarylibrary card
❓ What does “at the library” mean?