dates

word · lemma: date

/ˈdeɪts/
dayts
/dˈeɪts/
dayts

Definition

'Dates' can mean sweet fruits from a palm tree, particular days on a calendar, or social meetings with someone you are romantically interested in. The meaning depends on the context.

Usage & Nuances

Be careful: the singular form 'date' has the same three common meanings. With calendar meaning, common phrases are 'the date of birth' and 'set a date'. For romance, 'go on a date' is much more common than just 'have a date'. For the fruit, it is usually countable: 'eat some dates'.

Example Sentences

These dates are very sweet.

basic

Please write the dates on the form.

basic

They went on two dates last month.

basic

He keeps talking about his weekend dates, but never gives any details.

natural

I always mix up the dates for family birthdays.

natural

We brought dates and nuts to share after dinner.

natural