Reading Theme:
Is It Machine Washable? Meaning and Usage Guide
Meaning 1：a question about laundry safety (Is it machine washable?)
Is it machine washable?
/ɪz ɪt məˈʃiːn ˈwɒʃəbəl/
phrase
A question asking if an item, especially clothing or fabric, can be safely cleaned in a washing machine without getting damaged.
a question about laundry safety
➕
/ə ˈkwɛstʃən əˈbaʊt ˈlɔːndri ˈseɪfti/
phrase
A direct inquiry used to check whether a fabric or garment can be cleaned in a washing machine without damage.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From 'machine' (mechanical device) + 'washable' (able to be washed). The suffix '-able' means capable of.
💡 Mnemonic
Think of a washing machine with a question mark on it: 'Machine? Washable?' Yes or no?
📖 Example
Before buying the new cotton T-shirt, Lisa asked the shop assistant, "Is it machine washable?" because she hates hand washing clothes.
Before buying the new cotton T-shirt, Lisa asked the shop assistant, "Is it machine washable?" because she hates hand washing clothes.
🔗 Collocations
check if it is machine washable – Examine whether the item can be washed in a machine
label says 'Is it machine washable?' – The tag includes this question as a care instruction
ask 'Is it machine washable?' – Utter this question to determine washing method
🔄 Synonyms
Can you machine wash this? (phrase) – Alternative phrasing asking the same thing
Is this safe for the washing machine? (phrase) – Inquiry about safety in a washing machine
Does this require hand washing? (phrase) – Opposite focus but related to washing method
🚫 Antonyms
Is it hand wash only? (phrase) – Question about opposite washing requirement
Is it dry clean only? (phrase) – Question about professional cleaning requirement
📖 Cultural Story
This phrase became common in the mid-20th century with the rise of automatic washing machines. Clothing labels now routinely include this question as a standard care instruction.
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