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B1 noun #45 le plus courant 16 min de lecture

ladder

Top 45

At the A1 level, a ladder is a very simple and useful object. Think of it as a tool you use when you want to reach something high. For example, if your cat is on the roof of your house, you need a ladder to get the cat. A ladder is made of wood or metal. It has many steps. We call these steps 'rungs'. You put your feet on the rungs to go up. You also use your hands to hold the sides of the ladder. This is very important for safety.

In your house, you might have a small ladder. This is called a 'stepladder'. You use it to change a lightbulb or to reach a high shelf in the kitchen. It is usually small and easy to carry. When you are finished, you can fold it and put it away in a closet. A big ladder is used outside. Painters use big ladders to paint the walls of a house. Firefighters use very long ladders to help people in tall buildings.

When we talk about a ladder at this level, we use simple verbs. You can climb a ladder. You can carry a ladder. You can see a ladder. You can say, 'The ladder is tall' or 'The ladder is blue.' It is a countable noun, so we say 'one ladder' or 'two ladders.' Always remember to be careful. A ladder can be dangerous if you are not careful. You should always have a friend hold the bottom of the ladder for you. This makes it safe.

You might see a ladder in a garden. Maybe someone is picking apples from a tree. They put the ladder against the tree and climb up. Then they put the apples in a basket. This is a very common way to use a ladder. In English class, you will learn that 'ladder' starts with the letter 'L'. It sounds like 'lad-der'. It is an easy word to remember because it looks like the object it describes—two long lines with small lines between them. Just remember: ladder = climbing up!

At the A2 level, you can start to use the word ladder in more detailed sentences. You know that a ladder is a tool for reaching high places, but now you can describe how to use it more accurately. For example, you 'lean' a ladder against a wall. The word 'against' is very important here. You don't just put it on the wall; it must be at an angle so you can climb it safely. You might say, 'I leaned the ladder against the garage to fix the roof.'

You can also talk about different types of ladders. A 'stepladder' is the one that looks like a triangle and stands by itself. An 'extension ladder' is the one that can become longer. You might hear someone say, 'We need the extension ladder to reach the second floor.' At this level, you should also know the word 'rung.' The rungs are the horizontal parts you step on. You can say, 'He climbed up three rungs and then stopped because he was afraid of heights.'

Ladders are not just for work; they are also for play. Many children have a 'rope ladder' in their treehouse or on a playground. A rope ladder is not hard; it is made of rope and wood, and it moves when you climb it. It is more difficult to climb than a metal ladder. You can also use 'ladder' to talk about a simple ranking. In a school game, there might be a 'challenge ladder.' If you win a game, you move up the ladder. This is the beginning of understanding the metaphorical use of the word.

Another interesting thing to know at A2 is that in the UK, people use 'ladder' to talk about their clothes. If you are wearing thin stockings or tights and they get a hole that grows into a long line, that is called a 'ladder.' You might hear a friend say, 'Oh no! I have a ladder in my tights!' This is a very common everyday expression. So, at A2, 'ladder' is a tool, a ranking, and sometimes a problem with your clothes. It's a very versatile word!

At the B1 level, you are expected to understand both the literal and the metaphorical meanings of ladder. While you still use it to describe the physical tool used by painters and builders, you will now encounter it frequently in the context of careers and social status. The most common phrase is the 'corporate ladder.' This refers to the series of jobs from the bottom to the top of a company. When someone says they want to 'climb the corporate ladder,' they mean they want to get promotions and eventually become a manager or a director.

You will also hear about the 'social ladder.' This describes a person's position in society. Someone might be 'at the bottom of the social ladder' if they are poor or have a low-status job. If they work hard and become successful, people say they are 'climbing the social ladder.' This metaphorical use is very common in news articles, books, and professional conversations. It's a way of visualizing success as a vertical journey where each step represents a new achievement.

In terms of grammar and collocations, you should know that we often 'steady' a ladder to keep it from shaking. You might say, 'Could you please steady the ladder for me while I'm up here?' You should also be familiar with the 'property ladder.' In many English-speaking countries, especially the UK, people talk about 'getting a foot on the property ladder.' This means buying your first house or apartment. The idea is that once you own a small property, it is easier to sell it later and buy a bigger one, 'climbing' toward your dream home.

Finally, at B1, you can use 'ladder' in more complex sentence structures. For example, 'Despite starting at the very bottom of the ladder, she eventually became the CEO of the firm.' This sentence uses a concessive clause ('despite...') and a metaphorical 'ladder' to tell a story of success. You are moving beyond simple descriptions and using the word to express abstract ideas about ambition, society, and progress. Whether literal or figurative, a ladder always represents the effort required to move from a lower position to a higher one.

At the B2 level, your understanding of ladder should include idiomatic expressions and more technical applications. You are likely comfortable with the 'corporate ladder' and 'property ladder,' but now you can use them with more nuance. For instance, you might discuss the 'glass ceiling' that prevents some people from climbing the corporate ladder. This shows you can link different metaphors together to describe complex social issues. You understand that 'climbing the ladder' isn't just about working hard; it's about the structure of the system itself.

There are several idioms involving ladders that you should recognize. One is 'to kick away the ladder.' This describes a situation where someone reaches a high position of power or success and then makes it difficult for others to follow them. For example, 'Once he became a billionaire, he supported laws that made it harder for small businesses to grow, effectively kicking away the ladder.' This is a sophisticated way to criticize someone's behavior using a vivid image. Another phrase is 'the first rung of the ladder,' which refers to the very beginning of a long process.

In technical fields, 'ladder' has specific meanings. In biology, a 'DNA ladder' is a solution of DNA molecules of different lengths used in electrophoresis to determine the size of unknown DNA fragments. In music, a scale can be thought of as a 'ladder' of notes. In sports, a 'ladder tournament' is a specific type of competition where players move up or down based on their wins and losses. You should be able to understand these contexts when reading specialized texts or listening to experts.

Your vocabulary should also include related words like 'stile' (the vertical sides of a ladder) and 'rung' (the steps). You can describe the safety procedures associated with ladders, such as the 'four-to-one rule' (for every four feet of height, the base of the ladder should be one foot away from the wall). At B2, you are expected to use 'ladder' accurately in professional, academic, and casual settings, showing an awareness of how the word's meaning shifts from a simple tool to a complex symbol of social and professional hierarchy.

At the C1 level, the word ladder becomes a tool for sophisticated analysis and precise description. You should be able to use the word in high-level discussions about sociology, economics, and philosophy. For example, you might analyze the 'ladder of inference,' a psychological model that describes the thinking process we go through to get from a fact to a decision or action. This requires an understanding of how the 'ladder' metaphor can represent cognitive stages, where each 'rung' is a leap in logic or an added layer of interpretation.

In economic discussions, you might use 'ladder' to describe 'tax ladders' or 'investment ladders.' A 'bond ladder,' for instance, is a portfolio of fixed-income securities that mature at different dates. This usage shows a high degree of financial literacy. You can also discuss 'social mobility' by using the ladder metaphor to critique the 'American Dream' or similar concepts. You might argue that the 'rungs of the social ladder' are becoming further apart, making it harder for those at the bottom to ascend. This level of discourse moves far beyond the literal tool and into the realm of systemic critique.

You should also be sensitive to the register and tone of the word. While 'climbing the ladder' is a common idiom, using it in a formal essay might require more precise language like 'vertical professional mobility' or 'hierarchical advancement.' However, 'ladder' remains a powerful rhetorical device. In a speech, you might use the image of a ladder to inspire an audience, or conversely, to warn them about the precariousness of success. You understand that being 'on the ladder' implies a certain level of risk—one can always fall off.

Furthermore, your command of the word should include its use in various dialects and historical contexts. You might know that the word comes from the Old English 'hlæder,' and you can appreciate its use in literature, from Jacob's Ladder in the Bible to modern poetry. At C1, you don't just know what a ladder is; you know what it represents in the human psyche: the eternal desire to transcend our current state and reach for something higher. You can use this understanding to add depth and resonance to your writing and speaking.

At the C2 level, your mastery of the word ladder is complete, encompassing its most abstract, technical, and literary applications. You can use the word to navigate the most complex linguistic environments with ease. In philosophical contexts, you might reference Wittgenstein's ladder—the idea that one must use certain propositions to reach a higher level of understanding, only to 'throw away the ladder' once the summit is reached because the propositions themselves are no longer necessary. This demonstrates a profound grasp of how language can serve as a temporary scaffolding for thought.

In the realm of advanced biology and genetics, you are comfortable discussing 'DNA ladders' and 'protein ladders' as standard laboratory benchmarks, understanding the physics and chemistry behind why these molecules arrange themselves in a ladder-like fashion during gel electrophoresis. You can explain the 'double helix' structure of DNA not just as a 'twisted ladder,' but as a complex arrangement of antiparallel strands and hydrogen-bonded base pairs, using the ladder metaphor as a starting point for a much deeper scientific explanation.

Your use of idioms is flawless and contextually appropriate. You might use 'climbing the ladder' with a touch of irony or cynicism when discussing corporate culture, or use 'the bottom rung' to emphasize the humility of a great person's beginnings. You are also aware of the 'property ladder' and its socio-economic implications in different countries, being able to compare the UK's obsession with homeownership to the rental-heavy markets of Continental Europe. You can discuss 'social stratification' and 'meritocratic hierarchies' using the ladder as a central, unifying image.

Finally, at C2, you possess the creative ability to invent your own metaphors using the concept of a ladder. You might describe a complex argument as a 'ladder of logic' where one weak rung could cause the whole structure to collapse. You can appreciate the word's phonetic qualities in poetry and its structural role in narrative. For you, 'ladder' is no longer just a noun; it is a versatile conceptual framework that you can adapt to any subject, from the most mundane DIY task to the most elevated philosophical inquiry. Your English is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker, characterized by precision, nuance, and a deep cultural resonance.

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

ladder en 30 secondes

A tool for climbing up and down.
A metaphorical hierarchy in careers or society.
A ranking system in sports or games.
A run or snag in stockings (British English).

The word ladder primarily describes a vertical or inclined set of steps. In its most literal sense, it is a tool used for reaching high places. Imagine a painter needing to reach the ceiling or a firefighter rescuing someone from a second-story window; they both rely on the structural integrity of a ladder. A physical ladder consists of two long, upright members called stiles, which are connected by several horizontal crosspieces known as rungs. These rungs provide the surface area for a person's feet and hands as they ascend or descend. Ladders come in various forms: the stepladder, which is self-supporting and shaped like an 'A'; the extension ladder, which can be lengthened to reach great heights; and the rope ladder, often found on ships or in playgrounds, which is flexible and portable.

Physical Utility: Ladders are essential in construction, maintenance, and domestic chores. They allow humans to overcome the limitations of their height safely, provided the ladder is placed on stable ground and at a proper angle.

Beyond the physical tool, 'ladder' is a powerful metaphor in the English language. It represents a hierarchy or a series of stages through which one can progress. The most common metaphorical use is the corporate ladder or career ladder. This refers to the structured path of promotion within a company or profession. Starting at the 'bottom rung' implies beginning in an entry-level position with low pay and little responsibility. 'Climbing the ladder' signifies achieving success, gaining promotions, and moving toward executive or leadership roles. This concept is deeply ingrained in the Western idea of meritocracy and professional growth.

After ten years of hard work, Sarah finally reached the top of the corporate ladder as the new CEO.

In the world of fashion and textiles, particularly in British English, a 'ladder' refers to a vertical hole or a snag in a pair of tights or stockings where the knit has come undone and run down the length of the fabric. This is known as a 'run' in American English. If a woman says, 'Oh no, I have a ladder in my tights,' she means there is a visible line of unraveled thread. This usage highlights the word's versatility across different dialects and contexts.

Ladders also appear in sports and gaming. A 'tournament ladder' is a ranking system where players or teams are arranged in a list. To move up the ladder, a lower-ranked player must challenge and defeat a higher-ranked player. This system is common in tennis, squash, and many online competitive video games. It provides a clear, visual representation of skill levels and progress within a community. Whether you are talking about a wooden tool in a garage, a career path in an office, or a ranking in a game, the core concept remains the same: a structured way to go from a lower point to a higher one.

Social Mobility: The 'social ladder' refers to the different classes or status levels in society. Climbing the social ladder means improving one's social standing through wealth, education, or marriage.

Historically, the ladder has been a symbol of aspiration. In various mythologies and religious texts, ladders connect the earthly realm to the divine. Jacob's Ladder in the Bible is a famous example, representing a bridge between Heaven and Earth. This cultural history reinforces the word's association with improvement, reaching for goals, and the transition between different states of being. Even in modern science, the structure of DNA is often described as a 'twisted ladder' or a double helix, where the sugar-phosphate backbones are the stiles and the base pairs are the rungs. This shows how the fundamental shape of the ladder is used to explain complex biological structures.

The scientist explained that DNA looks like a spiral ladder carrying our genetic code.

Safety is a major theme when discussing physical ladders. Because they involve height, they are inherently risky. There are specific rules for ladder safety, such as the 'three-point contact' rule (always having two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, on the ladder). This practical aspect of the word often appears in workplace manuals and safety training. In summary, the word 'ladder' is a bridge between the physical world of tools and the abstract world of human ambition and social structure.

Using the word ladder correctly requires understanding whether you are referring to a physical object or a metaphorical concept. When used as a physical noun, it often follows verbs of movement or placement. For example, you 'set up' a ladder, 'climb up' a ladder, or 'lean' a ladder against a wall. The preposition 'against' is crucial here; you don't just put a ladder on a wall, you lean it against the wall to ensure it doesn't fall backward. If the ladder is self-supporting, like a stepladder, you 'open' it or 'unfold' it.

Verb Collocations: Common verbs used with ladder include: climb, scale, descend, steady, hold, carry, and position. Example: 'Please steady the ladder while I climb to the top.'

In metaphorical contexts, the word 'ladder' is frequently paired with adjectives that describe the type of hierarchy. You will often see 'career ladder,' 'corporate ladder,' 'social ladder,' or 'property ladder.' The 'property ladder' is a specifically British term referring to the process of buying a small, cheap house with the intention of eventually selling it to buy a larger, more expensive one. Sentences using these terms often focus on the effort required to move upward. For instance, 'It is difficult for young people to get onto the property ladder these days due to high prices.'

She spent twenty years climbing the corporate ladder, only to realize she preferred a simpler life.

Grammatically, 'ladder' is a countable noun. This means it has a plural form, 'ladders,' and requires an article (a, an, the) or a possessive pronoun (my, his, their) in the singular. You would say, 'I need a ladder,' not 'I need ladder.' When describing the parts of a ladder, we use specific terminology: 'He gripped the rungs tightly.' The rungs are the horizontal steps. If you are talking about the height, you might say, 'The ladder is ten feet tall' or 'It is a ten-step ladder.'

Another common sentence pattern involves the 'bottom' and 'top' of the ladder. These terms describe the extremes of a hierarchy. 'Starting at the bottom of the ladder' is a common idiom for beginning a career at the lowest level. Conversely, 'reaching the top of the ladder' means achieving the highest possible status. You can also 'fall off' the ladder, which metaphorically means losing your position or status. For example, 'The scandal caused the politician to fall off the social ladder entirely.'

Prepositional Phrases: Use 'on' for position: 'He is on the ladder.' Use 'up/down' for direction: 'She went up the ladder.' Use 'at' for specific points: 'He is at the bottom of the ladder.'

In technical or scientific writing, 'ladder' might appear in the context of 'DNA ladder' or 'protein ladder.' These are standards used in laboratories to identify the size of molecules. A sentence might look like this: 'The researcher compared the sample to the DNA ladder to determine its molecular weight.' Here, the word maintains its sense of a measured, step-by-step scale. In all these cases, the word 'ladder' provides a clear mental image of a vertical progression, making it a highly effective word for both literal description and abstract explanation.

The firemen quickly extended the ladder to reach the trapped residents on the fourth floor.

Finally, consider the use of 'ladder' in idiomatic expressions like 'kick away the ladder.' This describes someone who has reached a high position and then prevents others from doing the same. 'Having reached the top, he kicked away the ladder by cutting the training budget for new employees.' This vivid imagery helps convey complex social behaviors through the simple concept of a climbing tool. By mastering these patterns, you can use 'ladder' to describe everything from home repairs to complex sociological phenomena.

The word ladder is ubiquitous in daily life, but the context in which you hear it changes depending on the environment. If you are at a construction site or around people doing home improvement, you will hear it constantly as a literal tool. A contractor might shout, 'Pass me the extension ladder!' or a neighbor might ask, 'Can I borrow your stepladder to clean my gutters?' In these settings, the word is practical, functional, and often associated with safety warnings. You might hear a foreman say, 'Don't stand on the top rung of that ladder; it's not safe!'

Workplace Context: In professional offices, 'ladder' is almost always metaphorical. During performance reviews, a manager might say, 'You've shown great potential for moving up the career ladder.' In business news, you'll hear about 'climbing the corporate ladder' or 'the first rung of the management ladder.'

In the UK and Commonwealth countries, you will hear 'ladder' in the context of clothing. If someone is getting ready for a party and says, 'I've got a ladder in my stockings,' they aren't talking about equipment; they are frustrated about a tear in their hosiery. This is a very common everyday usage that might confuse American English speakers, who would use the word 'run.' You might hear this in a clothing store or among friends discussing their outfits.

'I need to buy a new pair of tights; I just noticed a huge ladder going all the way up my leg.'

In the real estate market, especially in news reports or financial podcasts, the 'property ladder' is a frequent topic of conversation. Experts might discuss how 'first-time buyers are struggling to get a foot on the property ladder.' This phrase is so common that it has become a standard way to talk about the housing market and social mobility. You'll hear it in bank advertisements, government policy discussions, and dinner party conversations about the cost of living.

In competitive gaming and sports, 'ladder' refers to the ranking system. On platforms like Twitch or in Discord servers, gamers will talk about 'grinding the ladder' or 'climbing the ranked ladder.' This means they are playing many matches to improve their standing. You might hear a commentator say, 'He's currently at the top of the European ladder for StarCraft II.' This usage has exploded with the rise of e-sports and online matchmaking systems.

Emergency Services: Firefighters use specialized ladders. You might hear 'ladder truck' or 'aerial ladder' in news reports about a fire. These are large, vehicle-mounted ladders used for high-rise rescues.

Finally, in academic or scientific settings, 'ladder' is used as a technical term. In a biology lab, a student might ask, 'Where is the 1kb DNA ladder?' In music theory, a teacher might describe a musical scale as a 'ladder of notes.' In philosophy, you might hear about the 'ladder of inference,' which describes how people move from data to action. These varied contexts show that 'ladder' is a fundamental concept used to organize and explain verticality, progression, and structure in almost every field of human endeavor.

The coach told the team that every win takes them one step higher on the tournament ladder.

Whether you are listening to a DIY YouTube tutorial, a corporate keynote speech, or a sports broadcast, the word 'ladder' will appear. It is a bridge between the physical and the conceptual, making it one of the most versatile nouns in the English language. Understanding these different 'worlds' where the word lives will help you recognize its meaning instantly, no matter who is speaking.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing ladder with stairs or steps. While all three are used for going up and down, they are not interchangeable. A ladder is usually a portable piece of equipment that you have to lean against something or unfold. Stairs are a permanent part of a building's structure. You 'walk up' stairs, but you 'climb' a ladder. If you say, 'I walked up the ladder to the second floor,' it sounds strange because climbing a ladder requires using both hands and feet in a way that walking does not.

Ladder vs. Stairs: Mistake: 'The house has a wooden ladder to the bedroom.' Correct: 'The house has wooden stairs to the bedroom.' (Unless it's a tiny house or a loft with an actual ladder).

Another common error involves the metaphorical use of the word. Some learners use 'ladder' when they should use 'path' or 'route.' While 'ladder' implies a vertical, hierarchical progression, 'path' is more general. You 'climb the career ladder,' but you 'follow a career path.' If you say, 'I am walking the corporate ladder,' it mixes metaphors. You must climb a ladder. Using the wrong verb with the metaphor can make your English sound unnatural.

Incorrect: He is walking the social ladder. Correct: He is climbing the social ladder.

In British English, the confusion between 'ladder' and 'run' in tights is a classic pitfall. American speakers might not understand what a 'ladder' in clothing is, while British speakers might find 'run' slightly less common. If you are in the US and say, 'I have a ladder in my stockings,' people might look for a piece of construction equipment near your feet! It is important to know your audience when using this specific meaning.

Grammatically, some students forget that 'ladder' is a countable noun. You cannot say, 'I need some ladder' or 'There is ladder in the garage.' You must use 'a ladder' or 'the ladder.' Also, when referring to the steps of the ladder, the word is 'rungs.' Calling them 'ladder steps' is understandable but less precise. Using 'rungs' shows a higher level of vocabulary proficiency.

Preposition Errors: Mistake: 'He is climbing in the ladder.' Correct: 'He is climbing up the ladder.' Mistake: 'Put the ladder to the wall.' Correct: 'Lean the ladder against the wall.'

A more subtle mistake is using 'ladder' for a single step. If you are talking about a small platform used to reach a high shelf, that is a 'step stool,' not usually a 'ladder,' though a 'stepladder' is a valid term for a small folding ladder. Using 'ladder' for a single step can be an overstatement. Finally, avoid the 'ladder' vs. 'leader' pronunciation trap. In some accents, these can sound similar, but 'ladder' has a short /æ/ sound like 'cat,' while 'leader' has a long /i:/ sound like 'see.' Mispronouncing this can lead to significant confusion in a business context!

Mistake: 'He is the corporate leader.' (when you mean he is high on the ladder). Correct: 'He is high up the corporate ladder.'

To avoid these mistakes, always visualize the object. If it's something you carry and lean, it's a ladder. If it's a hierarchy you are ascending, you are climbing a ladder. If it's a hole in your tights, it's a ladder (in London) or a run (in New York). Keeping these distinctions in mind will ensure your usage is accurate and professional.

When you want to describe reaching a higher place or a structured hierarchy, ladder is a great word, but there are many alternatives depending on the nuance you want to convey. For physical objects, stairs and steps are the most common. Stairs are fixed and permanent, while steps can refer to individual rungs or a small, portable platform (a step-stool). If the structure is for workers to stand on while building something, the word is scaffolding. Scaffolding is much more complex and stable than a simple ladder.

Physical Alternatives: - Stairs: Permanent, built-in. - Stepladder: A self-supporting, portable ladder. - Scaffolding: A temporary structure for construction. - Escalator: A moving staircase.

In a metaphorical or professional sense, hierarchy is the most direct synonym for a 'ladder.' While 'ladder' is a visual metaphor, 'hierarchy' is a more formal, academic term. You might say, 'The company has a rigid hierarchy,' which means the same as 'The corporate ladder is hard to climb.' Another alternative is progression. This focuses on the movement forward or upward rather than the structure itself. 'Career progression' is a common phrase used in job descriptions.

The hierarchy of the Catholic Church is often compared to a celestial ladder.

If you are talking about social status, you might use the word echelon. This refers to a level or rank in an organization, a profession, or society. 'The upper echelons of government' is a more sophisticated way of saying 'the top of the political ladder.' Similarly, ranking or standing can be used in sports or social contexts. 'He has a high social standing' implies he is high on the social ladder.

In the context of a competition, a bracket or table can sometimes replace 'ladder.' In UK football, they use a 'league table,' whereas in tennis, they might use a 'tournament ladder.' Both describe the relative positions of competitors. If you are describing a series of stages in a process, you might use phases or tiers. A 'tiered system' is very similar to a 'ladder system,' implying that each level is distinct and must be reached in order.

Metaphorical Comparisons: - Ladder: Implies individual effort and climbing. - Pyramid: Implies a broad base and a single point at the top. - Chain: Implies connected links (e.g., 'chain of command').

Finally, for the specific British meaning of a 'ladder' in tights, the American alternative is run. You might also hear snag or tear, though these are slightly different. A snag is a small pull in the fabric, while a ladder/run is the long line that follows. Understanding these synonyms allows you to be more precise and adapt your language to the formality of the situation and the dialect of your listeners.

Instead of climbing the corporate ladder, he chose to build his own business from the ground up.

By choosing between 'ladder,' 'hierarchy,' 'echelon,' or 'stairs,' you can control the imagery you project. 'Ladder' is a hardworking, active word that suggests movement and effort. 'Hierarchy' is a structural word that suggests a fixed system. Both are useful, but they paint different pictures in the mind of the reader.

How Formal Is It?

Formel

"The candidate has ascended the organizational ladder with remarkable speed."

Neutre

"He used a ladder to paint the window frame."

Informel

"I'm finally on the property ladder!"

Child friendly

"The fireman climbed the tall ladder to save the kitty."

Argot

"He's just grinding the ladder in League of Legends."

Le savais-tu ?

The word is related to the Greek word 'klimax', which also means 'ladder' or 'climax' (the top of a ladder).

Guide de prononciation

UK /ˈlæd.ə(r)/

US /ˈlæd.ər/

The stress is on the first syllable: LAD-der.

Rime avec

madder sadder bladder adder gladder badder padder shadder

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing it like 'leader' (/ˈliːdər/).
Forgetting the 'd' sound in the middle.
Confusing the /æ/ sound with /e/ as in 'letter'.
Adding an extra syllable.
Misplacing the stress on the second syllable.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

The literal meaning is easy, but metaphorical uses require some cultural context.

Écriture 3/5

Using the correct collocations (like 'climb' or 'against') is important.

Expression orale 2/5

Easy to pronounce, but avoid confusing it with 'leader'.

Écoute 2/5

Clearly audible, though flap-T in US English might be tricky for some.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

climb step high wall work

Apprends ensuite

hierarchy promotion echelon status attain

Avancé

ontological meritocracy stratification electrophoresis ascent

Grammaire à connaître

Countable Nouns

I have two ladders in my garage.

Prepositions of Place

The cat is on the ladder.

Prepositions of Direction

She is going up the ladder.

Verbs of Motion

He climbed the ladder carefully.

Compound Nouns

The stepladder is in the closet.

Exemples par niveau

I use a ladder to reach the tall shelf.

J'utilise une échelle pour atteindre l'étagère haute.

'A ladder' is a singular countable noun.

The cat is on the ladder.

Le chat est sur l'échelle.

Use 'on' to describe position.

Is the ladder big or small?

L'échelle est-elle grande ou petite ?

Adjectives like 'big' and 'small' describe the noun.

He has a metal ladder in the garden.

Il a une échelle en métal dans le jardin.

'Metal' acts as an adjective here.

Please do not fall off the ladder.

S'il vous plaît, ne tombez pas de l'échelle.

'Fall off' is the phrasal verb for losing balance.

I can see five rungs on the ladder.

Je peux voir cinq échelons sur l'échelle.

'Rungs' are the steps of a ladder.

The painter carries a long ladder.

Le peintre porte une longue échelle.

'Carries' is the third-person singular of 'carry'.

The ladder is against the wall.

L'échelle est contre le mur.

'Against' indicates the ladder is leaning.

You need a stepladder to change the lightbulb.

Tu as besoin d'un escabeau pour changer l'ampoule.

'Stepladder' is a specific type of self-supporting ladder.

He climbed up the ladder to fix the roof.

Il est monté à l'échelle pour réparer le toit.

'Climb up' is a common verb phrase.

The fire truck has a very long ladder.

Le camion de pompiers a une très longue échelle.

'Fire truck' is the subject.

She noticed a ladder in her new tights.

Elle a remarqué une maille filée dans ses nouveaux collants.

In the UK, 'ladder' means a run in fabric.

Always hold the ladder with both hands.

Tenez toujours l'échelle à deux mains.

'Both hands' emphasizes safety.

The rope ladder was swinging in the wind.

L'échelle de corde se balançait au gré du vent.

'Rope ladder' is a compound noun.

He is at the bottom of the ladder.

Il est au bas de l'échelle.

'At the bottom' is a prepositional phrase.

Can you help me move this heavy ladder?

Peux-tu m'aider à déplacer cette échelle lourde ?

'Move' is the infinitive after 'help me'.

She is working hard to climb the corporate ladder.

Elle travaille dur pour gravir les échelons de l'entreprise.

'Corporate ladder' is a common metaphor for career progress.

It's hard for young people to get on the property ladder.

Il est difficile pour les jeunes d'accéder à la propriété.

'Property ladder' refers to buying your first home.

He started at the bottom rung of the company.

Il a commencé au bas de l'échelle de l'entreprise.

'Bottom rung' means the lowest entry-level position.

The scientist used a DNA ladder for the experiment.

Le scientifique a utilisé une échelle d'ADN pour l'expérience.

'DNA ladder' is a technical term in biology.

You must steady the ladder before anyone climbs it.

Vous devez stabiliser l'échelle avant que quelqu'un n'y monte.

'Steady' is used here as a verb meaning to make stable.

The tournament ladder shows who is playing next.

Le tableau du tournoi montre qui joue ensuite.

'Tournament ladder' is a ranking system.

She has a successful career but is still on the middle rung.

Elle a une carrière réussie mais elle est encore au milieu de l'échelle.

'Middle rung' suggests a mid-level position.

The library has a rolling ladder to reach the top books.

La bibliothèque a une échelle roulante pour atteindre les livres du haut.

'Rolling ladder' is a specific functional type.

The government is trying to help people off the social ladder's bottom.

Le gouvernement essaie d'aider les gens à sortir du bas de l'échelle sociale.

'Social ladder' refers to class and status.

He kicked away the ladder once he reached the top.

Il a retiré l'échelle une fois arrivé au sommet.

This idiom means preventing others from succeeding.

The extension ladder must be secured at the top for safety.

L'échelle à coulisse doit être fixée au sommet pour plus de sécurité.

'Secured' is a formal word for 'fastened'.

Her promotion was a significant step up the career ladder.

Sa promotion a été une étape importante dans sa carrière.

'Step up' emphasizes the movement.

The athlete climbed the world rankings ladder quickly.

L'athlète a rapidement gravi les échelons du classement mondial.

'Rankings ladder' is common in sports journalism.

Don't let a small mistake knock you off the ladder.

Ne laissez pas une petite erreur vous faire perdre votre place.

'Knock off' is a phrasal verb meaning to remove.

The attic ladder folds into the ceiling when not in use.

L'échelle du grenier se replie dans le plafond lorsqu'elle n'est pas utilisée.

'Attic ladder' is a specific domestic feature.

The organization has a very steep hierarchical ladder.

L'organisation a une échelle hiérarchique très raide.

'Steep' implies it is difficult to get promoted.

The 'ladder of inference' explains how we form beliefs.

L'échelle d'inférence explique comment nous formons des croyances.

This is a psychological and business model.

He navigated the political ladder with extraordinary skill.

Il a gravi les échelons politiques avec une habileté extraordinaire.

'Navigate' suggests a complex and strategic movement.

The disparity between the rungs of the social ladder is widening.

L'écart entre les échelons de l'échelle sociale se creuse.

'Disparity' and 'widening' are formal academic terms.

She felt that the glass ceiling was a barrier on her ladder.

Elle sentait que le plafond de verre était une barrière sur son échelle.

Combines two metaphors: 'glass ceiling' and 'ladder'.

The bond ladder strategy helps manage interest rate risk.

La stratégie de l'échelle d'obligations aide à gérer le risque de taux d'intérêt.

'Bond ladder' is a specific financial investment term.

The poet used the ladder as a symbol of spiritual ascension.

Le poète a utilisé l'échelle comme symbole d'ascension spirituelle.

'Ascension' is a formal, often religious or spiritual term.

He was accused of pulling up the ladder behind him.

Il a été accusé d'avoir retiré l'échelle derrière lui.

Similar to 'kicking away the ladder', implying selfishness.

The laddering effect in the market caused a rapid price increase.

L'effet d'échelle sur le marché a provoqué une augmentation rapide des prix.

'Laddering' can be used as a gerund/noun in economics.

Wittgenstein famously suggested throwing away the ladder after climbing it.

Wittgenstein a suggéré de jeter l'échelle après l'avoir gravie.

References a specific philosophical concept from the Tractatus.

The ontological ladder of being ranks all forms of existence.

L'échelle ontologique de l'être classe toutes les formes d'existence.

'Ontological' refers to the nature of being.

Her ascent of the academic ladder was marked by prolific research.

Son ascension de l'échelle académique a été marquée par des recherches prolifiques.

'Ascent' is the noun form of 'ascend'.

The intricate structure of the protein ladder was revealed by the scan.

La structure complexe de l'échelle protéique a été révélée par le scanner.

'Intricate' describes something very detailed and complex.

He critiqued the meritocratic ladder as a convenient fiction for the elite.

Il a critiqué l'échelle méritocratique comme une fiction pratique pour l'élite.

'Meritocratic' refers to a system based on ability.

The socio-economic ladder remains stubbornly rigid in many regions.

L'échelle socio-économique reste obstinément rigide dans de nombreuses régions.

'Stubbornly rigid' is a strong adverb-adjective pair.

The ladder of divine ascent is a central theme in Eastern Orthodox asceticism.

L'échelle de l'ascension divine est un thème central de l'ascétisme orthodoxe oriental.

A specific theological reference.

The company's restructuring removed several rungs from the management ladder.

La restructuration de l'entreprise a supprimé plusieurs échelons de l'échelle de direction.

'Restructuring' and 'rungs' are used in a business context.

Collocations courantes

climb the ladder

corporate ladder

property ladder

social ladder

extension ladder

bottom rung

top of the ladder

steady the ladder

rope ladder

DNA ladder

Phrases Courantes

get a foot on the ladder

the first rung of the ladder

move up the ladder

at the bottom of the ladder

reach the top of the ladder

fall off the ladder

kick away the ladder

ladder in your tights

tournament ladder

climb the social ladder

Souvent confondu avec

ladder vs stairs

Stairs are permanent and built into a house; ladders are portable tools.

ladder vs steps

Steps can be part of a ladder (rungs) or a small platform (step-stool).

ladder vs leader

A leader is a person who leads; a ladder is a tool for climbing. They sound similar.

Expressions idiomatiques

"climb the corporate ladder"

To advance in one's career within a company.

He is determined to climb the corporate ladder.

professional

"kick away the ladder"

To reach success and then stop others from doing the same.

He reached the top and then kicked away the ladder.

metaphorical

"on the bottom rung"

Starting at the lowest level of an organization.

She is currently on the bottom rung of the ladder.

neutral

"get a foot on the property ladder"

To buy one's first house or apartment.

It's hard to get a foot on the property ladder in London.

informal/UK

"the ladder of success"

The series of stages to achieve a goal.

Hard work is the key to the ladder of success.

inspirational

"pull up the ladder"

To prevent others from enjoying the same benefits you have.

The older generation is often accused of pulling up the ladder.

critical

"Jacob's ladder"

A connection between heaven and earth.

The light through the clouds looked like Jacob's ladder.

literary/religious

"a ladder in one's hose"

A run in stockings.

She noticed a ladder in her hose just before the meeting.

old-fashioned/UK

"climb the social ladder"

To increase one's social status.

He married into wealth to climb the social ladder.

neutral

"top of the ladder"

The highest point of achievement.

She is at the top of the academic ladder.

neutral

Facile à confondre

ladder vs stairs

Both are used for vertical movement.

Stairs are permanent, fixed structures in a building. Ladders are portable equipment that you usually have to lean or unfold.

I walked up the stairs, but I climbed the ladder to the roof.

ladder vs steps

Ladders have steps.

'Steps' is a general term. A ladder has 'rungs'. A 'step-stool' is a very small ladder. 'Steps' often refers to the individual parts of stairs.

Be careful on the top steps of the ladder.

ladder vs scaffolding

Both are used in construction.

Scaffolding is a large, temporary metal or wooden frame that workers stand on. A ladder is a single piece of equipment for one person to climb.

The painters used scaffolding for the whole building but a ladder for the door.

ladder vs escalator

Both help you go up.

An escalator is a moving staircase powered by electricity, found in malls or stations. A ladder is manual and portable.

I took the escalator to the second floor, but I needed a ladder to fix the light.

ladder vs elevator

Both help you reach high places.

An elevator is a small room that moves up and down in a shaft. A ladder is a simple frame with rungs.

The elevator was broken, so I had to use a ladder to reach the attic.

Structures de phrases

Subject + has + a + ladder.

He has a ladder.

Subject + is + climbing + the + ladder.

She is climbing the ladder.

Subject + wants to + climb + the + [Adjective] + ladder.

He wants to climb the corporate ladder.

It is + adjective + to + get on + the + ladder.

It is hard to get on the property ladder.

Subject + started + at the + bottom rung + of the + ladder.

She started at the bottom rung of the ladder.

The + [Noun] + ladder + is + [Verb-ing].

The social ladder is widening.

Subject + was + accused of + kicking away + the + ladder.

He was accused of kicking away the ladder.

The + [Adjective] + ladder + of + [Noun] + represents...

The ontological ladder of being represents existence.

Famille de mots

Noms

Verbes

Adjectifs

Apparenté

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

High in both literal and metaphorical contexts.

Erreurs courantes

I walked up the ladder. → I climbed the ladder.
You walk up stairs, but you climb a ladder because it requires using your hands and feet.
He is on the top of the stairs ladder. → He is at the top of the ladder.
'Stairs' and 'ladder' are different things. Don't combine them unless you mean a specific 'stepladder'.
I have a run in my ladder. → I have a ladder in my tights.
In the UK, the hole is the 'ladder'. In the US, the hole is the 'run'. Don't mix them.
He is walking the corporate ladder. → He is climbing the corporate ladder.
The metaphor for a ladder always uses the verb 'climb', not 'walk'.
Put the ladder on the wall. → Lean the ladder against the wall.
'Against' is the correct preposition for an object that is supported by a vertical surface.

Astuces

The 4-to-1 Rule

For every four feet of height you need to reach, place the base of the ladder one foot away from the wall. This ensures the ladder is at a safe angle and won't tip over.

Countable Noun

Remember that 'ladder' is countable. You must use 'a' or 'the' or a number. You cannot say 'I have ladder'; you must say 'I have a ladder'.

Career Context

When talking about your job, use 'climb the ladder' to show ambition. It is a very common and professional way to describe your desire for promotion.

Parts of a Ladder

Learn the word 'rung'. Instead of saying 'the steps of the ladder', say 'the rungs of the ladder'. This makes your English sound more natural and advanced.

Property Ladder

If you are moving to the UK, learn the phrase 'property ladder'. You will hear it in every conversation about housing and money.

Three-Point Contact

Always keep three points of contact with the ladder (two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand). This is the standard safety advice for climbing.

Superstition

In many English-speaking countries, it is considered bad luck to walk under a ladder. People will often walk around a ladder to avoid this.

Double 'D'

Don't forget the double 'd' in the middle of 'ladder'. If you use only one 'd', it's not a word, and it might be confused with 'later'.

Ladder vs. Leader

Practice the short 'a' sound. 'Ladder' should rhyme with 'sadder'. 'Leader' has a long 'ee' sound. Mispronouncing this can change the meaning of your sentence.

Vivid Imagery

Use 'ladder' in your writing to create a strong visual of hierarchy. It's more descriptive than just saying 'levels' or 'ranks'.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

L-A-D-D-E-R: Look At Dad Doing Every Repair (on a ladder).

Association visuelle

Imagine the letter 'H' but with many more horizontal lines; that looks like a ladder.

Word Web

climb rung career property step height safety metal

Défi

Try to use 'ladder' in three different ways today: once for a tool, once for a career, and once for a ranking.

Origine du mot

Derived from the Old English word 'hlæder', which comes from a Germanic root.

Sens originel : A frame with steps for climbing.

Germanic (Indo-European).

Contexte culturel

Be careful when using 'climbing the social ladder' as it can sometimes sound like you are calling someone a 'social climber' (a negative term).

The 'property ladder' is a very common topic in UK media.

Jacob's Ladder (Bible) Wittgenstein's Ladder (Philosophy) Stairway to Heaven (Song - similar concept)

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Home Improvement

set up the ladder
lean it against the wall
climb the rungs
steady the base

Career Development

climb the corporate ladder
move up the ladder
the first rung
career progression

Real Estate

get on the property ladder
climb the property ladder
first-time buyer
housing market

Sports/Gaming

tournament ladder
climb the rankings
grind the ladder
top of the ladder

Clothing (UK)

ladder in my tights
run in my stockings
snagged my hose
tore a ladder

Amorces de conversation

"Do you think it's still possible to climb the corporate ladder in one company today?"

"Have you ever used a ladder to do something dangerous?"

"Is the property ladder a big topic of conversation in your country?"

"What is the first rung of the ladder in your dream career?"

"Do you prefer using a ladder or stairs when you have a choice?"

Sujets d'écriture

Describe a time you felt you were at the bottom of a ladder. How did you feel?

Write about the metaphorical ladder you are currently climbing.

If you could design a perfect ladder for a specific job, what would it look like?

Discuss the pros and cons of the 'property ladder' concept.

Reflect on the idiom 'kicking away the ladder.' Have you ever seen this happen?

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

A ladder usually needs to be leaned against a wall to be used. A stepladder is self-supporting, meaning it has four legs and stands on its own in an 'A' shape. Stepladders are often used indoors for smaller tasks like reaching a high shelf.

This is a metaphor for getting promotions and moving into higher positions within a company. It suggests that a career is like a ladder where you start at the bottom and work your way up to the top (management or executive levels).

Yes. In the UK, a 'ladder' can also mean a long tear or run in a pair of tights or stockings. In the US, this is called a 'run'. Both countries use the word 'ladder' for the climbing tool and the career metaphor.

The horizontal parts that you step on are called 'rungs'. The vertical side pieces that hold the rungs are called 'stiles'. Knowing these terms is helpful for technical or safety discussions.

The 'property ladder' is a term used mainly in the UK to describe the process of buying a small, affordable home first, and then eventually selling it to buy a larger, more expensive one as your wealth increases.

In British English, 'ladder' can be used as a verb meaning to cause a run in a pair of tights. For example, 'I've laddered my stockings.' In most other contexts, it is only used as a noun.

The correct preposition is 'on'. You are 'on the ladder' when you are climbing it. You can also be 'at the top' or 'at the bottom' of the ladder.

A rope ladder is a flexible ladder where the sides are made of rope. It is often used on ships, in playgrounds, or for emergency escapes because it can be rolled up and carried easily.

In biology, a DNA ladder is a mixture of DNA fragments of known lengths. It is used as a reference to help scientists identify the size of unknown DNA samples during an experiment.

This idiom describes someone who has become successful and then does things to prevent other people from achieving the same success. It's like reaching the top of a wall and then pushing the ladder down so no one else can follow you.