ants

word · lemma: ant

/ˈænts/
ants
/ˈænts/
ants

Definition

Ants are very small insects that live together in large groups called colonies. They often work together to find food, build nests, and protect their group.

Usage & Nuances

Usually used as a countable noun: 'an ant', 'ants'. Common collocations include 'a line of ants', 'ant nest', and 'fire ants'. Learners may confuse 'ants' with the feeling in your body in 'ants in your pants', which is an idiom meaning you cannot stay still.

Example Sentences

If you leave cake out, ants will show up in no time.

natural

There were ants all over the picnic blanket.

natural

I sprayed the corners because ants kept coming into the house.

natural

I saw ants near the sugar jar.

basic

The ants are carrying a piece of bread.

basic

We found ants in the kitchen.

basic