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inch

/ɪntʃ/

自動詞他動詞[C] 可算名詞

複数形: inches過去形: inched過去分詞: inched現在分詞: inching

As a measurement, it represents a small, precise unit of length. In common usage, it often implies a degree of exactness or a tiny margin that can make a significant difference (e.g., "an inch of clearance"). When used as a verb, the word evokes a feeling of tension, effort, or extreme caution. It suggests a struggle against resistance—whether physical, like moving furniture, or situational, like navigating a traffic jam. The movement is not just slow, but incremental. There is an image of stop-and-start motion where every tiny bit of progress is deliberate and hard-won.

意味

名詞

A unit of linear measure equal to one twenty-fifth of a foot, or 2.54 centimeters.

"The screw is exactly one inch long."

自動詞

To move slowly and carefully, often in small increments.

"The car began to inch forward through the heavy traffic."

他動詞

To move something slowly and cautiously.

"She managed to inch the heavy sofa across the room."