terrain

Definitions

terr (land, from terra) + -ain (noun suffix) = a piece of land. But terrain doesn't just mean 'land' in general — it focuses on the shape and surface of the ground: whether it's flat, hilly, rocky, or boggy. That's why we talk about 'rough terrain' or an 'all-terrain vehicle.' The figurative use keeps the image: 'unfamiliar terrain' is ground that's hard to cross.

Common Collocations

• 1.rough terrain崎岖地形
• 2.mountainous terrain山地地形
• 3.all-terrain vehicle全地形车
• 4.navigate the terrain穿越地带
• 5.rugged terrain崎岖不平的地形

Example Sentences

• 1.

  The hikers struggled across the rough, rocky terrain.

• 2.

  This vehicle is designed to handle steep mountainous terrain.

• 3.

  Negotiating a salary is unfamiliar terrain for many graduates.