1. As a Noun:
* A device for igniting a flame: This is the most common meaning of "lighter." It refers to the familiar tool used for lighting cigarettes, candles, etc.
* Examples: "I need a lighter to start the bonfire." "Can I borrow your lighter?"
* Something that is less heavy or dense: This meaning refers to the physical lightness of an object.
* Examples: "This suitcase is much lighter than the last one I used." "The new material is lighter and more durable."
2. As an Adjective:
* Less heavy: This describes the weight of something.
* Examples: "The lighter suitcase is easier to carry." "The lighter shade of paint is more appealing."
* Having less intensity or seriousness: This describes a less severe or powerful form of something.
* Examples: "The lighter version of the game is more suitable for children." "The music has a lighter, more cheerful tone."
* Pale or less dark: This refers to the color of something.
* Examples: "She wore a lighter shade of lipstick today." "The sky is lighter now that the sun is up."
3. As a Verb:
* To make something lighter: This refers to the act of reducing the weight or intensity of something.
* Examples: "He lightered the load by removing some unnecessary items." "The company lightered the cost of the product by using cheaper materials."
4. Figurative Meanings:
* Less serious or burdensome: This meaning refers to a less stressful or demanding situation.
* Example: "I'm going to take a lighter approach to my work this week."
* More positive or optimistic: This meaning refers to a more hopeful or cheerful outlook.
* Example: "She has a lighter perspective on life."
To understand the specific meaning of "lighter," you need to consider the context in which it is used.
For example:
* "He took out his lighter and lit the candle." Here, "lighter" clearly refers to the tool used for ignition.
* "The lighter suitcase made travel much easier." Here, "lighter" describes the weight of the suitcase.
* "She has a lighter, more carefree personality." Here, "lighter" refers to her less serious and more optimistic outlook.
By examining the surrounding words and phrases, you can usually determine the precise meaning of "lighter."