package
B1Neutral (used across formal and informal contexts)
Definition
Meaning
A wrapped or boxed object, typically for transport or sale.
A set of proposals, items, services, or software grouped and offered as a single unit; to put something into a parcel or to present it as a combined deal.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The noun 'package' is a general-purpose word covering physical parcels, software bundles, and abstract deals. The verb 'package' implies a deliberate act of combining, presenting, or wrapping for a purpose.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
UK: 'Parcel' is a common synonym for a physical item sent by post. US: 'Package' is more dominant for postal items; 'parcel' is less frequent and can sound formal.
Connotations
Both varieties use 'package' for software deals and abstract sets. In business, 'package' (salary/benefits) is equally common. In retail, 'special offer package' is used in both.
Frequency
Higher frequency in US English for postal contexts; in UK English, 'parcel' and 'package' compete, with 'parcel' being slightly more traditional for mail.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
Package [OBJECT] (as something)Package [OBJECT] togetherPackage [OBJECT] into [SOMETHING]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “package deal”
- “part of the package”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
A complete benefits package was offered to the new executive.
Academic
The statistical analysis was performed using the R software package.
Everyday
I need to post this package to my sister.
Technical
The installer manages dependencies for the Python package.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- They will package the books for shipment.
- The holiday firm packages flights and hotels together.
American English
- The company packages its software with a user manual.
- They packaged the proposal to make it more appealing.
adverb
British English
- The goods are sold package-free to reduce waste. (Note: 'package-free' as compound adjective)
- N/A
American English
- Software is often distributed package-ready. (Note: 'package-ready' as compound adjective)
- N/A
adjective
British English
- Package holiday sales have increased.
- We offer a package rate for the conference.
American English
- Package delivery services are in high demand.
- The package deal includes insurance.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The postman delivered a package.
- I put the gift in a small package.
- We booked a package holiday to Spain.
- She received a care package from home.
- The government announced a new economic stimulus package.
- The software package requires an update.
- The negotiators attempted to package the contentious clauses with more popular measures.
- His remuneration package included stock options and a performance bonus.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'pack' of items 'aged' together → PACK-AGED → PACKAGE. Items are packed and aged (stored/grouped) into one unit.
Conceptual Metaphor
IDEAS/SERVICES ARE PHYSICAL OBJECTS ('package of reforms', 'package holiday').
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct translation of 'пакет' for plastic bag; 'package' refers to a parcel or deal, not a carrier bag. 'Software package' is 'пакет программ', but a shopping bag is 'plastic bag' or 'carrier'.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'packet' (small container, e.g., crisps) instead of 'package' for larger parcels or deals.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'package' LEAST appropriate?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Parcel' is very common for items sent by post. 'Package' is also used, often interchangeably, but can imply something larger or more formally wrapped. In US English, 'package' is standard.
Yes. It means to wrap or box something (e.g., 'package the goods'), or more abstractly, to present several things as a single unit (e.g., 'package the services together').
Not usually. A 'packet' is typically a small container or envelope for items like sugar, seeds, or crisps. A 'package' is generally larger, like a box for posting, or refers to an abstract bundle.
It means something is included as a standard, often unavoidable, component of a deal or situation (e.g., 'Long hours are part of the package in this job.').
Collections
Part of a collection
Food and Cooking
A2 · 50 words · Cooking methods, kitchen tools and recipes.