English

physique

gb/fəzˈik/ us/fəzˈik/
B2 English
Senses
0 senses
Noun B2 property
1

a person's body shape and build

A person’s body shape and the way their body is built.

Usage pattern: [someone]'s physique; a/an [adjective] physique
Common mistake:
Often confused with physics (the science subject). Physique refers to the body/build.
Synonyms
build (Very common and slightly more general than physique.) | figure (Often focuses on shape, especially in everyday talk.) | frame (Emphasizes underlying structure (bones/body size).) | body type (More categorical (e.g., ectomorph/endomorph) and less about fitness.)
Collocations
athletic physique |muscular physique |lean physique |slim physique |fit physique |strong physique |impressive physique |powerful physique |develop a physique |maintain a physique
Themes
body_health |appearance |fitness |sports
Examples
  • Years of swimming gave her a strong, athletic physique.
  • The actor trained for months to get a more muscular physique for the role.
  • He has a lean physique, but he’s stronger than he looks.
Learner examples
  • He has a very fit physique.
  • I want to improve my physique.
Noun formal C1 property
2

someone's physical constitution

A person’s natural physical condition or body makeup.

Usage pattern: [someone]'s physique; [adjective] physique
Common mistake:
In this sense, it’s more formal and general than body/figure, and not limited to muscularity.
Synonyms
constitution (More about overall health/robustness than shape.) | stamina (Related, but focuses on endurance rather than body makeup.)
Antonyms
mentality (Contrasts physical makeup with mental attitude (not a direct opposite).)
Collocations
robust physique |delicate physique |frail physique |sturdy physique |slight physique |his physique and stamina
Themes
health |body_health
Examples
  • The work is demanding and requires a sturdy physique.
  • She has a delicate physique and tires easily in cold weather.
Learner examples
  • He has a strong physique.
  • Her physique is not suited to heavy work.
Grammar
Dictionary form
physique
IPA
GB/fəzˈik/
US/fəzˈik/
Syllables & stress
physique (1 syllable)
Word forms
Noun
  • Base: physique
  • Plural: physique, physiques
Word family
Forms
physiques noun
Core family
physical adjective A2 physically adverb B1
Related words
physics noun B1 physicist noun B2
Advanced or less common
physicality noun C1
Expressions

No expressions linked to this entry yet.

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