primer

/'praimə/
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Thân thiện
primer

A student reads a primer to learn the alphabet.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • An introductory textbook: A book that provides basic or elementary instruction in a subject, often used by beginners.
    • The first or preliminary coat of paint or size applied to a surface: A preparatory coating used to seal, protect, or create a suitable base for subsequent layers of paint.
    • Any igniter that is used to initiate the burning of a propellant: A device or substance (like a cap or powder) used to ignite an explosive charge or the fuel in an engine.
Examples of Usage
  • Noun (Introductory textbook):
    • She bought a primer on computer programming to learn the basics.
    • This book serves as an excellent primer for students of economics.
  • Noun (Preliminary coat):
    • Apply a coat of primer to the wall before painting it.
    • The wood was treated with a stain-blocking primer.
  • Noun (Igniter):
    • The soldier carefully inserted the primer into the artillery shell.
    • A faulty primer caused the cartridge to misfire.
Advanced Usage
  • "Primer coat": Specifically refers to the initial layer of paint or sealant.
    • The primer coat must be completely dry before applying the finish paint.
  • "Primer sequence" (in genetics): A short strand of nucleic acid that serves as a starting point for DNA synthesis. (Note: This is a specialized scientific compound term, listed here as advanced usage).
    • The experiment required a specific primer sequence to amplify the DNA segment.
Variants and Related Words
  • Prime (verb): To prepare something, often by applying a primer.
    • He primed the canvas before starting the oil painting.
  • Priming (noun): The act or material used in applying a primer.
    • Proper priming is essential for a good paint job.
Synonyms
  • Introduction (for the textbook meaning): A preliminary explanation.
  • Undercoat (for the paint meaning): A first layer of paint.
  • Fuse / Detonator (for the igniter meaning): A device that initiates an explosion.
Related Phrases (Phrasal Verbs)

(Note: "Primer" is primarily a noun and does not commonly form standard English phrasal verbs. The related verb "prime" is used in phrasal constructions.) - Prime for: To prepare someone or something for a particular situation or activity. - The coach primed the team for the championship game.

Related Idioms
  • "In primer": In a basic or introductory state. (This usage is somewhat archaic or specialized).
    • The young scholar's ideas were still in primer, awaiting further development.
primer

A student reads a primer to learn the alphabet.

Noun
  1. the first or preliminary coat of paint or size applied to a surface
  2. any igniter that is used to initiate the burning of a propellant
  3. an introductory textbook