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chain

[tʃeɪn]

chain Definition

  • 1a series of connected metal rings or links used for fastening or securing objects and pulling or lifting heavy loads
  • 2a sequence of stores, hotels, or restaurants owned by the same company
  • 3a group of establishments such as hotels, stores, or restaurants owned by the same company

Using chain: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "chain" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The bike was secured with a chain.

  • Example

    The prisoner was in chains.

  • Example

    The hotel chain has locations all over the world.

  • Example

    The restaurant chain is known for its fast food.

  • Example

    The store chain offers a variety of products.

chain Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for chain

Antonyms for chain

Idioms Using chain

  • yank someone's chain

    to tease or fool someone

    Example

    Don't take him seriously, he's just yanking your chain.

  • to do everything possible to achieve a goal

    Example

    We need to pull out all the stops to finish this project on time.

  • to stop a negative pattern or habit

    Example

    She decided to break the chain of unhealthy eating habits.

Phrases with chain

  • ball and chain

    a heavy metal ball secured to a prisoner's leg by a chain, used to prevent escape

    Example

    He felt like he was carrying a ball and chain after getting married.

  • a series of events, each caused by the previous one

    Example

    The accident on the highway caused a chain reaction of collisions.

  • the sequence of processes involved in the production and distribution of a commodity

    Example

    The company is working to improve its supply chain to reduce costs.

Origins of chain

from Old English 'cǣġen', from Proto-Germanic 'kaikinō' meaning 'chain'

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Summary: chain in Brief

The term 'chain' [tʃeɪn] refers to a series of connected metal rings or links used for fastening or securing objects and pulling or lifting heavy loads. It also denotes a sequence of stores, hotels, or restaurants owned by the same company, and a group of establishments such as hotels, stores, or restaurants owned by the same company. Phrases like 'ball and chain' and 'chain reaction' are commonly used, while idioms like 'yank someone's chain' and 'break the chain' are also prevalent.

How do native speakers use this expression?