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📕 rednote ID(小红书号)：3881567312

Chain: Definition, Usage & Real-Life Examples (2 meaning)

Meaning 1：a series of connected metal rings (chain)

chain 🔊

/tʃeɪn/

A line of connected metal rings, used for fastening, pulling, or as jewelry.

Close-up diagram of a strong silver metal chain showing interlocked links.

a series of connected metal rings 🔊

➕

/ə ˈsɪriːz əv kəˈnɛktɪd ˈmɛtəl rɪŋz/

Refers to a flexible line of interlocking metal rings, commonly used for fastening, pulling, or as decorative items.

📁 Category：Objects & Materials 🔖 Level：beginner

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'catena', meaning a series of links.

💡 Mnemonic

Imagine interlocking rings forming a continuous link.

📖 Example

He used a heavy chain to lock his bicycle to the fence. 🔊 He used a heavy chain to lock his bicycle to the fence.

🔗 Collocations

gold chain – a chain made of gold, often worn as jewelry

bicycle chain – the chain that transfers power to the wheels of a bicycle

chain link – an individual ring or connection in a chain

🔄 Synonyms

link (n.) – a single ring or connection in a chain

bond (n.) – something that binds or connects elements together

shackle (n.) – a metal ring used to fasten or restrain, often in pairs

🚫 Antonyms

disconnection (n.) – the state of being separated or detached

freedom (n.) – the condition of being free from restraint or confinement

🌱 Derivatives

chain (v.) – to fasten or secure with a chain

chainless (adj.) – without a chain; free or unbound

chainmail (n.) – armor made of interlinked metal rings

📖 Cultural Story

The word 'chain' originates from Latin 'catena', entering English via Old French. It has evolved to denote both physical connections and business networks.

Meaning 2：a group of same-brand businesses (chain)

chain 🔊

/tʃeɪn/

A group of businesses (like stores, restaurants, or hotels) that have the same name and are owned by the same company.

Illustration of a chain of three identical branded storefronts on a street.

a group of same-brand businesses 🔊

➕

/ə ɡruːp əv seɪm brænd ˈbɪznəsɪz/

Refers to a collection of retail outlets, restaurants, or hotels operating under the same brand name and owned by a single company, ensuring standardized offerings.

📁 Category：Social Economy 🔖 Level：intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Example

My favorite coffee shop is part of a large international chain. 🔊 My favorite coffee shop is part of a large international chain.

🔗 Collocations

fast-food chain – a chain of restaurants serving quick meals, such as McDonald's

retail chain – a chain of stores selling goods directly to consumers

hotel chain – a group of hotels under the same management and brand

🔄 Synonyms

franchise (n.) – a business operating under the license of a larger parent company

network (n.) – an interconnected group of businesses or organizations

group (n.) – a number of entities considered together as a unit

🚫 Antonyms

independent store (n.) – a business owned and operated separately, not part of a larger chain

single outlet (n.) – a business with only one physical location

🌱 Derivatives

chainstore (n.) – a retail outlet that is part of a chain of stores

chain (v.) – to organize businesses into a linked network