Lesson
Objects and their properties
Text
Learn how to describe objects, products and items clearly and appropriately in different contexts. This lesson focuses on useful expressions, tone, and collocations to make your descriptions precise and natural — especially in professional or business situations.
Table
| Expression | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| state-of-the-art | using the latest technology; very modern | The new model is state-of-the-art and supports 5G. |
| top-notch | of the highest quality | We recommend a top-notch consultant for this project. |
| run-of-the-mill | ordinary; not special | The competitor's product is run-of-the-mill compared to ours. |
| in mint condition | in perfect condition (often for items) | The laptop was sold in mint condition despite being used. |
| high-end | expensive and of high quality | They focus on high-end clients and bespoke solutions. |
| budget-friendly | affordable; inexpensive | We offer a budget-friendly version for small businesses. |
| eye-catching | visually attractive; draws attention | The ad used an eye-catching design to boost engagement. |
| well-made | constructed with care and good materials | This chair is well-made and should last for years. |
Tip
When describing things, choose language that fits your purpose and audience.
Select precise adjectives instead of relying on vague words like 'nice' or 'good'.
Example
The prototype is state-of-the-art and will reduce processing time.
We need a budget-friendly option for small offices.
Her presentation used an eye-catching infographic to highlight key metrics.
The supplier delivered a well-made product that exceeded quality checks.
Tip
Avoid these universal errors to make your descriptions clearer and more natural.
Focus on adjective order, correct collocations, and accurate article use.
Quiz
Choose the most appropriate description for an advanced new smartphone:
Hint: Consider which option highlights modern technology and high performance.
Correct!
State-of-the-art describes the latest technology and is appropriate for an advanced new smartphone.
Incorrect
The correct answer was: A state-of-the-art smartphone with cutting-edge features
State-of-the-art describes the latest technology and is appropriate for an advanced new smartphone.
Quiz
Complete: The presentation included an _____ infographic to draw attention to the data.
Hint: Think of an adjective that means 'visually attractive' without giving the exact word.
Correct!
'Eye-catching' means visually attractive and is commonly used to describe images or designs that attract attention.
Incorrect
The correct answer was: eye-catching
'Eye-catching' means visually attractive and is commonly used to describe images or designs that attract attention.
Quiz
Choose the most natural phrasing:
Hint: Remember the order of adjectives like size then color.
Correct!
In English, when multiple adjectives describe size and color, size comes before color: 'a big red box'.
Incorrect
The correct answer was: A big red box
In English, when multiple adjectives describe size and color, size comes before color: 'a big red box'.
Expression
Using the most recent ideas and methods; very modern.
The lab installed state-of-the-art equipment to speed up testing.
Vocabulary
Of the highest quality; excellent.
We hired a top-notch designer for the campaign.
Expression
Ordinary; not special or unique.
The product felt run-of-the-mill and didn't justify the price.
Expression
In perfect or almost perfect condition, often used for items.
The vintage watch was sold in mint condition at auction.
Vocabulary
Visually attractive; grabbing attention.
The brochure had an eye-catching cover to draw customers in.
Vocabulary
Constructed carefully with good materials; durable.
Clients prefer well-made products even if they cost more.
Expression
Affordable; suitable for limited budgets.
We launched a budget-friendly plan to attract small clients.