lists: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Neutral to formal. Common in spoken and written contexts. The verb form is slightly more formal.
Quick answer
What does “lists” mean?
Multiple instances of the plural noun 'list'—a series of items, names, or data written consecutively, often for reference, organization, or enumeration.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Multiple instances of the plural noun 'list'—a series of items, names, or data written consecutively, often for reference, organization, or enumeration.
Can also be the third-person singular present tense of the verb 'to list', meaning to make or enter items into a list, or to tilt/slant. In historical/archaic contexts, 'the lists' refers to a barrier or enclosed field for tournaments.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Minor spelling differences in related compounds (e.g., 'mailing list' vs. 'mailing list', identical). The verb 'to list' (tilt) is more common in nautical/maritime contexts universally.
Connotations
In both varieties, 'lists' implies order and enumeration. In UK academic contexts, 'reading lists' are standard.
Frequency
The noun plural is extremely high-frequency in both. The verb form is medium frequency.
Grammar
How to Use “lists” in a Sentence
compile + lists + of + [NP]add + [NP] + to + listslists + include + [NP]put + [NP] + on + listsVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “lists” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- She lists all the required ingredients before going to the shop.
- The vessel lists heavily to starboard in the rough seas.
American English
- The website lists all available job openings.
- The old tower lists slightly to the south after the earthquake.
adjective
British English
- A list-based approach helps with organisation.
- The list-making software is intuitive.
American English
- The list-making feature is very popular.
- He prefers a list-oriented workflow.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used for task management, contact databases, and priority rankings (e.g., 'Please review the lists of quarterly targets').
Academic
Common in bibliographies, data sets, and enumerated arguments (e.g., 'The study compares lists of linguistic features').
Everyday
Ubiquitous for shopping, chores, and planning (e.g., 'I have three separate lists for the party').
Technical
In computing, a fundamental data structure (e.g., 'The program sorts the linked lists efficiently').
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “lists”
- Using a singular verb with 'lists' as a plural noun (e.g., 'The lists is long' – incorrect).
- Confusing 'lists' (plural noun) with 'list's' (possessive).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
As a noun, 'list' is singular; 'lists' is the plural. The verb 'lists' is the third-person singular present tense (he/she/it lists).
A list is a simple series of items. A catalogue is typically a more formal, complete, and systematically ordered list, often published or used for reference.
Yes. It primarily means to make a list of items, or to tilt to one side (like a ship). The context clarifies the meaning.
It's pronounced /s/ + /t/ + /s/, which can be tricky. The 't' is fully pronounced. Practice: 'lis-ts'. It does not rhyme with 'fists' (/fɪsts/).
Multiple instances of the plural noun 'list'—a series of items, names, or data written consecutively, often for reference, organization, or enumeration.
Lists is usually neutral to formal. common in spoken and written contexts. the verb form is slightly more formal. in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “enter the lists (archaic: to join a competition or argument)”
- “off the list (excluded)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'LISTen' – you make a list so you don't forget items, just like you listen so you don't miss information.
Conceptual Metaphor
LISTS ARE CONTAINERS FOR IDEAS/ITEMS; MAKING A LIST IS IMPOSING ORDER ON CHAOS.
Practice
Quiz
In which context does 'lists' most likely refer to a historical/archaic meaning?