ADJ
precision sophisticated reliable crude blunt The autopsy revealed that the deceased had been hit with a blunt instrument. (figurative) Even though it was a somewhat blunt instrument (= not very precise) , our questionnaire provided us with some interesting ideas sharp small delicate appropriate research drawing, measuring, writing astronomical, flight, flying, mathematical, medical, navigation, navigational, optical, scientific, surgical cockpit
QUANT
set a set of mathematical instruments
VERB + INSTRUMENT
use All pupils should learn to use drawing instruments check, read to read the instruments and make a note of the wind speed and direction design, develop, devise, invent build, make All the instruments are made from glass capillary tubing
INSTRUMENT + VERB
measure sth an instrument that measures light intensity
INSTRUMENT + NOUN
check The pilot did his instrument checks and taxied towards the runway maker panel There was a warning light flashing on the instrument panel
PHRASES
an instrument of torture medieval instruments of torture such as the rack and the wheel
ADJ
musical beautiful, fine classical modern period baroque music played on period instruments solo orchestral brass, keyboard, percussion, string/stringed, wind, woodwind acoustic, electric, electronic
VERB + INSTRUMENT
play (on) She plays three musical instruments. The score was written to be played on a keyboard instrument learn, learn (how) to play tune Ensure the instrument is tuned to concert pitch make an instrument made by a woman guitar maker in Canada
INSTRUMENT + VERB
sound The instrument sounds like a cello
ADJ
chief, key, main, major, prime, principal good, great They agreed that the UN was the best instrument for reaching agreement ideal important, valuable powerful useful effective flexible mere Some cynics say that sport is a mere instrument of capitalist domination chosen The despot claimed to be the chosen instrument of divine providence divine political
VERB + INSTRUMENT
perceive sb/sth as, regard sb/sth as, see sb/sth as, view sb/ sth as They saw criminal law as an instrument for improving public morals use sb/sth as make sb/sth
PREP
~ for Criminal law is not the best instrument for dealing with family matters ~ of She was accused of making a public service an instrument of private advantage
