At the A1 level, 'mount' is most commonly seen as part of a name for a mountain, like 'Mount Everest' or 'Mount Fuji.' You might learn it as a word that means a very high hill. It is important to remember that we use 'Mount' (with a capital M) when we talk about a specific mountain. You might also hear it in very simple stories about horses, where someone 'mounts' a horse to ride it. At this stage, just think of it as a word for 'up' or 'mountain.' You don't need to worry about the complex meanings yet. Just remember: Mount + Name = Mountain.
At the A2 level, you start to see 'mount' as a verb that means 'to get on.' You might read about people mounting their bicycles or mounting a horse. It is a more formal way of saying 'get on.' You might also see it in simple instructions, like 'mount the picture on the wall,' which means to put the picture up so it stays there. You are beginning to see that 'mount' is about putting something in a high or fixed place. It is a useful word to make your English sound a little more advanced than just using 'put' or 'climb.'
At the B1 level, you should understand 'mount' in three main ways. First, as a way to describe something increasing, like 'tensions are mounting' or 'costs are mounting.' This means they are slowly getting bigger or stronger. Second, you see it used for organizing events, like 'mounting an exhibition' or 'mounting a protest.' This means planning and starting something big. Third, you know it as a noun for a support, like a 'camera mount.' You are moving beyond the simple 'mountain' meaning and using the word to describe processes and technical objects in everyday life.
At the B2 level, you can use 'mount' more fluently in professional and academic contexts. You understand that 'mounting evidence' is a strong way to describe a growing case against someone. You can use 'mount' to describe complex organizational efforts, such as 'mounting a corporate takeover' or 'mounting a legal defense.' You also understand the nuance between 'mount' and 'climb' or 'increase.' You know that 'mount' often implies a sense of preparation or a steady, unstoppable build-up. Your use of the word adds precision to your descriptions of trends and actions.
At the C1 level, you are comfortable with the technical and metaphorical subtleties of 'mount.' You might use it in a technical sense, like 'mounting a drive' in computing, or in a scientific sense, like 'mounting a specimen' on a slide. You understand the historical and literary weight of the word. You can use it to describe abstract concepts, like 'mounting a challenge to the status quo.' You recognize that 'mount' often carries a connotation of significant effort or formal structure. You can distinguish between 'mounting pressure' (gradual) and 'escalating pressure' (sudden or intense).
At the C2 level, you use 'mount' with the precision of a native speaker. You might use it in highly specialized fields, such as art curation, engineering, or high-level political analysis. You understand its use in idioms and rare contexts. You can use it to create specific tones in your writing—perhaps using the literal sense of 'mounting a horse' to evoke a sense of tradition, or the abstract sense of 'mounting an argument' to show structural strength. You are aware of the word's etymology and how its various meanings (mountain, support, increase, launch) all stem from the core idea of 'rising' or 'setting up.'

mount in 30 Seconds

  • Mount primarily means to climb onto something, like a horse or a bicycle, or to go up a set of stairs or a platform.
  • It also describes the process of organizing and launching a significant event, such as an exhibition, a campaign, or a legal challenge.
  • Metaphorically, it refers to the gradual increase or accumulation of something, often negative, such as mounting pressure, debt, or evidence.
  • As a noun, it can be a physical support for an object or a specific mountain when used in a proper name.

The word mount is a versatile powerhouse in the English language, acting as both a verb and a noun. At its core, it suggests the idea of upward movement, accumulation, or the act of setting something into a fixed position. When you first encounter it, you might think of climbing, but its applications range from the technical world of photography to the high-stakes environment of political campaigns. Understanding 'mount' requires looking at it through three distinct lenses: physical ascent, organizational launching, and gradual intensification.

Physical Ascent
This is the most literal use. It describes the act of getting onto something, typically a horse, a bicycle, or a platform. It implies a deliberate step upward to take control or position oneself. For example, a knight would mount his steed before a battle, or a cyclist mounts her bike at the start of a race.

The experienced rider showed the children how to safely mount the pony without startling it.

Organizational Launch
In a more abstract sense, to 'mount' something means to organize and initiate a significant effort. This is commonly used with words like 'campaign,' 'exhibition,' 'attack,' or 'defense.' It suggests a process of preparation leading to a public or formal display of action. When a museum mounts an exhibition, they aren't just putting pictures on walls; they are curating, planning, and launching a major event.

The opposition party decided to mount a legal challenge against the new environmental regulations.

Gradual Intensification
Perhaps the most common metaphorical use is to describe the slow but steady increase of something, usually something negative like pressure, tension, or debt. Imagine water rising behind a dam; the pressure is mounting. It conveys a sense of building momentum that might eventually lead to a breaking point.

As the deadline approached, the pressure on the engineering team began to mount significantly.

She bought a heavy-duty mount to ensure the telescope remained stable during the long exposure.

The climber's ultimate dream was to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro before his fiftieth birthday.

In summary, 'mount' is about building up—whether you are building up a campaign, building up tension, or building up your position by climbing onto something. It is a word of action and accumulation, essential for describing both physical movements and abstract developments in professional and personal life.

Using 'mount' correctly depends heavily on the context, as it can function as an intransitive verb (no object), a transitive verb (needs an object), or a noun. Let's explore these structures through detailed examples and explanations to ensure you can use it naturally in your writing and speech.

Intransitive Use: Increasing Intensity
When 'mount' means to increase, it often stands alone without a direct object. The subject is usually the thing that is growing. Common subjects include tension, excitement, costs, losses, and evidence. This usage highlights the automatic or inevitable nature of the increase.

Concerns about the company's financial stability mounted after the CEO suddenly resigned.

Transitive Use: Organizing and Fixing
When you 'mount' something, you are the agent performing the action. This can mean fixing an object to a support (like mounting a picture on a wall) or launching an activity (like mounting a search operation). Here, the verb requires a direct object to complete the meaning.

The police decided to mount a full-scale investigation into the missing artifacts.

Noun Use: Supports and Geography
As a noun, 'mount' can be a physical object. In photography, a 'lens mount' is the interface between the camera body and the lens. In interior design, a 'picture mount' is the cardboard border around a photo. In geography, it is used as a title for specific mountains, always capitalized when followed by a name.

He adjusted the camera on its tripod mount to get a better angle of the sunset.

They spent three days trekking toward the base of Mount Sinai.

The gallery used archival-quality mounts to protect the delicate sketches from acidity.

Whether you are describing the mounting excitement of a crowd or the act of mounting a new television on your living room wall, the word conveys a sense of stability, growth, or preparation. It is a sophisticated alternative to 'get on,' 'increase,' or 'organize,' adding a layer of precision to your English.

'Mount' is not just a word for textbooks; it is frequently heard in news broadcasts, technical discussions, and historical narratives. By identifying the specific domains where it appears, you can better understand its nuances and start using it with confidence in appropriate settings.

News and Journalism
Journalists love 'mount' because it conveys drama and progression. You will often hear about 'mounting pressure' on a politician to resign, or 'mounting evidence' in a criminal trial. It suggests a story that is developing and reaching a climax. In international relations, countries might 'mount a defense' or 'mount an offensive' in a conflict.

News Anchor: 'With the election only days away, both candidates are mounting a final, desperate push for undecided voters.'

Technology and DIY
If you watch tech reviews or home improvement videos, 'mount' is a technical term. It refers to how components are attached. A computer's motherboard has 'mounting points,' and a smart home enthusiast might talk about 'mounting a smart display' in the kitchen. In software, 'mounting a drive' means making a storage device accessible to the operating system.

Tech Reviewer: 'The new smartphone features a magnetic mount system that makes it incredibly easy to attach accessories.'

History and Literature
In historical novels or period dramas, 'mount' is used for its literal sense of riding. A general might 'mount his horse' to lead a charge. It carries a sense of formality and tradition that 'get on' lacks. Similarly, in literature, a character might 'mount the stairs' to a mysterious attic, adding a sense of weight and effort to the action.

Narrator: 'The knight mounted his charger and rode out into the misty morning, never to be seen again.'

The scientist carefully placed the slide on the microscope mount to examine the bacteria.

Public anger began to mount as the city failed to address the ongoing water crisis.

By paying attention to these contexts, you'll notice that 'mount' is a word that signifies importance. Whether it's the physical importance of a mountain, the structural importance of a mount, or the psychological importance of mounting pressure, this word always points toward something significant.

While 'mount' is a useful word, it has several pitfalls that can lead to awkward phrasing or confusion. Most mistakes stem from using it when a simpler word is required, or from confusing its different meanings. Let's break down the most common errors to help you avoid them.

Overusing 'Mount' for Simple Climbing
A common mistake is using 'mount' when 'climb' or 'get on' is more natural. You 'climb' a ladder, but you 'mount' a horse. 'Mount' implies a certain level of formality or a specific type of platform. Saying 'I mounted the chair to reach the shelf' sounds overly dramatic or technical; 'I stood on the chair' is better.

Incorrect: He mounted the tree to get the cat. (Better: He climbed the tree.)

Confusing 'Mount' and 'Mountain'
While 'Mount' is used in names (Mount Everest), you cannot use it as a general noun for a mountain in a sentence. You wouldn't say, 'The mount was very high.' You must say, 'The mountain was very high.' 'Mount' as a noun only refers to a specific named peak or a support/frame.

Incorrect: We went hiking on a local mount. (Correct: We went hiking on a local mountain.)

Incorrect Prepositions
When using 'mount' as a verb for fixing something, people often use the wrong preposition. You mount something 'on' or 'to' a surface. You don't mount something 'into' a wall unless you are embedding it. For example, 'Mount the TV on the wall,' not 'Mount the TV at the wall.'

Incorrect: The technician mounted the sensor into the ceiling. (Better: The technician mounted the sensor on the ceiling.)

Incorrect: My debts are mounting up to a high level. (Better: My debts are mounting.)

Finally, be careful with the register. 'Mount' is often more formal than its synonyms. If you are in a casual setting, 'build up' or 'set up' might be more appropriate. Using 'mount' correctly shows a high level of English proficiency, but using it in the wrong place can make your speech feel stiff or unnatural.

To truly master 'mount,' you need to know how it compares to its synonyms. Depending on whether you mean 'to climb,' 'to increase,' or 'to organize,' different alternatives might be more precise. Let's look at these comparisons to help you choose the right word for the right moment.

Mount vs. Ascend
Both mean to go up, but 'ascend' is much more formal and often used for stairs, mountains, or social status. 'Mount' is more specific to getting onto a vehicle, animal, or platform. You 'ascend' a throne (symbolically), but you 'mount' a podium (physically).
Mount vs. Escalate
When describing an increase, 'escalate' usually implies a situation getting more intense or dangerous, often involving conflict. 'Mount' describes a gradual accumulation or building of pressure. Tensions 'mount' before a war 'escalates.'

While the costs mount steadily, the conflict between the two departments has begun to escalate into open hostility.

Mount vs. Organize/Launch
'Organize' is a general term for planning. 'Launch' is about the start. 'Mount' combines both; it implies the preparation and the ongoing execution of a large-scale effort. You 'mount' a production of a play, which includes the rehearsals and the actual performances.

The museum will mount a retrospective of the artist's work, whereas a smaller gallery might simply organize a small sale.

Instead of just saying the pressure is 'getting higher,' try saying the pressure is mounting to sound more sophisticated.

By diversifying your vocabulary with these alternatives, you can express yourself with greater nuance. Use 'mount' when you want to emphasize the build-up, the stability of a support, or the formal launch of an initiative. It is a word that carries weight and authority in both professional and creative writing.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"The institution will mount a comprehensive inquiry into the matter."

Neutral

"He mounted the new shelves in the garage."

Informal

"The excitement is really mounting for the party!"

Child friendly

"The knight mounted his horse and said 'Giddy up!'"

Slang

"He's mounting a comeback after that fail."

Fun Fact

The word 'amount' is actually a relative of 'mount.' It originally meant 'to mount up' or 'to reach a total.'

Pronunciation Guide

UK /maʊnt/
US /maʊnt/
Single syllable word; the stress is on the entire word.
Rhymes With
Count Amount Account Surmount Dismount Fount Recount Discount
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing the 'ou' like 'oo' (moont).
  • Dropping the final 't' completely.
  • Confusing the vowel sound with 'mount' and 'month'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize in names, but metaphorical uses require more focus.

Writing 4/5

Requires knowledge of specific collocations like 'mounting pressure'.

Speaking 3/5

Natural in many contexts, but don't over-formalize simple actions.

Listening 2/5

Clear pronunciation and usually distinct from context.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

Mountain Climb Increase Fix Support

Learn Next

Surmount Escalate Accumulate Initiate Framework

Advanced

Tantamount Paramount Rostrum Breach Inquiry

Grammar to Know

Transitive vs. Intransitive

Transitive: 'Mount the TV.' Intransitive: 'The pressure mounted.'

Passive Voice with Mounting

The camera is mounted on a tripod.

Proper Noun Capitalization

We climbed Mount Rainier.

Gerund as Noun

The mounting of the exhibition took three weeks.

Infinitive of Purpose

He used a bracket to mount the speaker.

Examples by Level

1

Mount Everest is the highest mountain in the world.

Mount Everest is the highest mountain.

Proper noun usage.

2

He wants to see Mount Fuji in Japan.

He wants to see the mountain.

Proper noun.

3

The boy will mount the horse.

The boy gets on the horse.

Simple present verb.

4

Look at that big mount!

Look at that big mountain.

Noun usage (informal).

5

Mount Cook is in New Zealand.

A mountain in New Zealand.

Proper noun.

6

She likes to mount her bike.

She gets on her bike.

Infinitive verb.

7

The cat will mount the wall.

The cat climbs the wall.

Future tense.

8

Mount Rushmore has faces on it.

A famous mountain in the USA.

Proper noun.

1

Please mount the photo on the wall.

Put the photo on the wall.

Imperative verb.

2

He mounted his bicycle and rode away.

He got on his bike.

Past tense.

3

The rider mounted the horse quickly.

The rider got on the horse.

Past tense.

4

We need a mount for the new TV.

We need a support for the TV.

Noun.

5

She mounted the stairs to the second floor.

She went up the stairs.

Past tense.

6

The soldier mounted the guard post.

The soldier went to his post.

Past tense.

7

They are mounting a new sign today.

They are putting up a sign.

Present continuous.

8

The camera mount is broken.

The camera holder is broken.

Noun phrase.

1

Tensions began to mount between the two countries.

Tensions started to increase.

Infinitive after 'began'.

2

The museum is mounting a special exhibition.

The museum is organizing a show.

Present continuous.

3

Costs are mounting as the project continues.

Costs are increasing.

Present continuous.

4

He bought a special mount for his telescope.

He bought a support.

Noun.

5

The police mounted a search for the missing child.

The police started a search.

Past tense.

6

Excitement is mounting for the concert tonight.

People are getting more excited.

Present continuous.

7

You should mount the speakers at ear level.

Fix the speakers at a certain height.

Modal verb 'should'.

8

The pressure to succeed began to mount.

The pressure started to build up.

Infinitive.

1

Evidence is mounting that the climate is changing rapidly.

There is more and more proof.

Present continuous.

2

The company decided to mount a hostile takeover bid.

The company started an aggressive buy-out.

Infinitive phrase.

3

Public anger is mounting over the new tax laws.

People are getting angrier.

Present continuous.

4

The engine is mounted on rubber blocks to reduce vibration.

The engine is fixed on blocks.

Passive voice.

5

They are mounting a defense against the allegations.

They are preparing to fight the charges.

Present continuous.

6

The losses mounted to over a million dollars.

The losses reached a high total.

Past tense.

7

She mounted a successful campaign for mayor.

She ran a good campaign.

Past tense.

8

The jewels were mounted in a gold setting.

The jewels were fixed in gold.

Passive voice.

1

The researcher mounted the specimen on a glass slide.

The researcher prepared the sample.

Past tense.

2

Pressure is mounting on the government to change its policy.

There is increasing demand for change.

Present continuous.

3

The software allows you to mount virtual drives easily.

The software makes virtual disks accessible.

Infinitive.

4

He mounted a spirited challenge to the incumbent leader.

He started a strong competition.

Past tense.

5

The camera features a universal lens mount.

The camera has a standard connector.

Noun phrase.

6

Debts continued to mount despite the austerity measures.

Debts kept growing.

Infinitive after 'continued'.

7

The exhibition was mounted with great attention to detail.

The show was organized very carefully.

Passive voice.

8

The tension in the room was mounting by the second.

The atmosphere was getting very tense.

Past continuous.

1

The general mounted a counter-offensive to reclaim the territory.

The general launched a return attack.

Past tense.

2

Criticism of the project has mounted in recent weeks.

There has been more and more criticism.

Present perfect.

3

The diamonds were exquisitely mounted in platinum.

The diamonds were set in platinum.

Passive voice.

4

He mounted the rostrum to deliver his final address.

He went up to the stage.

Past tense.

5

The evidence against the theory is mounting rapidly.

Proof against the theory is growing.

Present continuous.

6

The play was mounted by a world-renowned theater company.

The play was produced by a famous group.

Passive voice.

7

The pressure on the ecosystem is mounting due to pollution.

The environment is under increasing stress.

Present continuous.

8

She mounted a formidable defense of her doctoral thesis.

She defended her thesis very well.

Past tense.

Common Collocations

Mounting pressure
Mounting evidence
Mount an exhibition
Mount a campaign
Wall mount
Lens mount
Mount a horse
Mounting costs
Mount a defense
Mount a challenge

Common Phrases

Mount up

— To increase in number or amount; also to get on a horse.

The bills are starting to mount up.

Mount a search

— To organize and begin looking for someone or something.

Rescue teams mounted a search for the lost hikers.

Mount a protest

— To organize a public demonstration against something.

Students mounted a protest against the tuition hikes.

Mount a stage

— To go up onto a platform to perform or speak.

The actors mounted the stage for the final bow.

Mount a picture

— To put a picture in a frame or on a backing.

She mounted the photo on black cardstock.

Mount a guard

— To place a person or group to watch and protect.

They mounted a guard at the entrance of the palace.

Mount a bike

— To get onto a bicycle to start riding.

He mounted his bike and sped down the hill.

Mount an attack

— To begin a physical or verbal strike against someone.

The newspaper mounted an attack on the mayor's policies.

Mounting excitement

— A feeling of being more and more excited.

There was mounting excitement as the game began.

Mounting debt

— Money owed that is getting larger over time.

He struggled to pay off his mounting debt.

Often Confused With

mount vs Mountain

Use 'Mountain' as a general noun, 'Mount' only with a name.

mount vs Amount

Related but different; 'Amount' is a total quantity, 'Mount' is the act of increasing or fixing.

mount vs Mound

A 'mound' is a small pile of earth; a 'mount' is a support or a mountain.

Idioms & Expressions

"Mount a high horse"

— To behave in a way that shows you think you are better or more moral than others.

Don't mount your high horse and lecture me about ethics.

Informal
"Mounting the rostrum"

— Taking a position of authority to speak publicly.

He mounted the rostrum to address the nation.

Formal
"Mounting the breach"

— To step in and help during a difficult situation (often 'stepping into the breach').

When the manager left, Sarah mounted the breach and took over.

Literary
"Mounting the throne"

— Becoming the king or queen.

The prince mounted the throne after his father's death.

Formal
"Mounting the scaffold"

— Going to one's execution (historical).

The prisoner mounted the scaffold with dignity.

Historical
"Mounting the pulpit"

— Starting to preach or give a religious sermon.

The priest mounted the pulpit to deliver the Sunday message.

Religious
"Mounting the soapbox"

— Starting to express one's opinions strongly in public.

She mounted her soapbox to talk about animal rights again.

Informal
"Mounting the ladder"

— Progressing in one's career.

He is quickly mounting the corporate ladder.

Neutral
"Mounting the podium"

— Going up to receive an award or speak.

The athlete mounted the podium to receive her gold medal.

Neutral
"Mounting a comeback"

— Attempting to return to a former successful position.

The team is mounting a comeback in the second half.

Neutral

Easily Confused

mount vs Climb

Both involve going up.

Climb is general (trees, ladders); mount is specific (horses, bikes, platforms).

Climb the ladder, but mount the horse.

mount vs Increase

Both mean getting bigger.

Increase is neutral; mount implies a gradual build-up of intensity or pressure.

Prices increase, but tensions mount.

mount vs Attach

Both mean joining things.

Attach is simple; mount implies a formal or structural support.

Attach a file, but mount a TV.

mount vs Ascend

Both mean moving upward.

Ascend is very formal and often metaphorical; mount is more physical or organizational.

The smoke ascended, but he mounted the stairs.

mount vs Organize

Both involve planning.

Organize is the planning phase; mount is the planning plus the launching/display.

Organize a meeting, but mount an exhibition.

Sentence Patterns

A1

Mount [Name]

Mount Fuji is beautiful.

A2

Mount the [Noun]

Mount the horse.

B1

[Subject] began to mount

Tension began to mount.

B1

Mount a [Noun]

Mount an exhibition.

B2

Mounted on [Noun]

The TV is mounted on the wall.

C1

Mounting [Abstract Noun]

Mounting evidence suggests a change.

C2

Mount a [Adjective] [Noun]

He mounted a formidable defense.

C2

Mount the [Rostrum/Podium]

She mounted the rostrum to speak.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

Related

How to Use It

frequency

Common in news, technology, and sports.

Common Mistakes
  • I mounted the mountain. I climbed the mountain.

    You climb a mountain; 'Mount' is used in the name of the mountain itself.

  • The costs are mounting up to $100. The costs are mounting.

    'Mounting' already implies an increase; 'up to' is often redundant unless specifying a limit.

  • He mounted at the horse. He mounted the horse.

    'Mount' is a transitive verb here; it doesn't need a preposition like 'at'.

  • I need to mount my shoes. I need to put on my shoes.

    'Mount' is not used for clothing.

  • The mount of Everest is high. Mount Everest is high.

    You don't use 'the mount of' for names; just 'Mount [Name]'.

Tips

Choose Mount for Tension

When describing feelings or atmospheres, 'mounting' is the perfect word to show how something is slowly getting stronger.

Transitive vs Intransitive

Remember: 'He mounted the TV' (Transitive) vs 'Pressure mounted' (Intransitive). Both are correct!

Art and Design

Use 'mount' when talking about framing pictures or setting gems to sound like an expert.

Naming Peaks

Always capitalize 'Mount' when it's part of a name: Mount Rainier, Mount Hood, Mount Etna.

IT Context

If you work in IT, 'mounting' is the standard term for connecting storage. Don't say 'connecting the disk' in a technical report.

Historical Context

In historical writing, use 'mount' for horses to maintain the proper period tone.

Business Strategy

Use 'mount a campaign' or 'mount a challenge' to describe large, organized company initiatives.

Avoid Overuse

Don't use 'mount' for simple things like 'mounting a chair.' Use 'stand on' or 'sit on' instead.

The 'NT' Sound

Make sure to pronounce the 'nt' at the end clearly so it doesn't sound like 'mound' (which means a pile).

The Mountain Link

Always link 'mount' to 'mountain' in your mind to remember the 'upward' meaning.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a MOUNtain. To MOUNt something is to go up it or put something UP on it.

Visual Association

Imagine a knight climbing UP onto a horse or a TV being fixed UP on a wall.

Word Web

Climb Increase Fix Support Mountain Organize Horse Tension

Challenge

Try to use 'mount' in three different ways in one paragraph: as a mountain, as an increase, and as a physical action.

Word Origin

Derived from the Old French 'monter,' which comes from the Vulgar Latin 'montare,' meaning 'to go up.' This is rooted in the Latin 'mons' (mountain).

Original meaning: The original meaning was strictly 'to ascend' or 'to go up a mountain.'

Indo-European > Latin > Romance > Old French > Middle English.

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities, but 'mount' can have sexual connotations in very specific slang contexts; use with care in informal settings.

Commonly used in names of places and in formal news reporting.

Mount Everest (Highest peak) Mount Rushmore (US Monument) Mount Olympus (Home of Greek Gods)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Photography

  • Lens mount
  • Tripod mount
  • Mount a photo
  • Cold shoe mount

Politics

  • Mount a campaign
  • Mount a challenge
  • Mounting pressure
  • Mount a defense

Finance

  • Mounting debt
  • Mounting costs
  • Mounting losses
  • Mounting interest

Sports

  • Mount a bike
  • Mount a horse
  • Mount a comeback
  • Mount the podium

Home Improvement

  • Wall mount
  • Mount a TV
  • Mounting bracket
  • Mounting screws

Conversation Starters

"Have you ever tried to mount a TV on a wall yourself, or did you hire someone?"

"Do you think the pressure is mounting on world leaders to solve climate change?"

"If you could mount an exhibition of any artist's work, who would you choose?"

"What is the most difficult thing you've ever had to mount, physically or mentally?"

"Have you ever seen someone mount a horse for the first time? How did it go?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a time when you felt pressure mounting in your life. How did you handle it?

Write about a campaign or project you would like to mount in your community.

Reflect on a goal that felt like a mountain you had to mount. What were the steps?

Imagine you are mounting a defense for a cause you believe in. What are your arguments?

Think about the mounting evidence of your own personal growth over the last year.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, you should say 'The mountain is high.' 'Mount' is only used as a noun for a mountain when it is part of a name, like 'Mount Everest.' Otherwise, use 'mountain.'

Yes, 'mount up' is a phrasal verb that means the same thing as 'mount' when referring to increasing amounts (like bills mounting up). It is slightly more informal.

It means making a disk or storage device ready for use by the computer's operating system so you can see the files.

This is generally avoided as it has a strong sexual connotation in modern English, unless you are talking about wrestling or specific medical contexts. Use 'get on' or 'climb' instead.

It is the part of a camera where the lens attaches to the body. Different brands have different mounts.

Yes, it is generally more formal than 'get on' or 'put up.' It is very common in professional writing and news.

It's better to say 'climb a ladder.' 'Mount' is usually for things you sit on or platforms you stand on.

It means the lawyers are preparing and presenting the evidence and arguments to protect their client.

Yes. The forms are mount, mounted, mounted, mounting.

To 'mount' is to go up or fix something; to 'surmount' is to overcome a difficulty or obstacle.

Test Yourself 180 questions

writing

Write a sentence about getting on a horse using 'mount'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about increasing costs using 'mount'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about a TV and a wall using 'mount'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about a museum using 'mount'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about a political challenge using 'mount'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about a bicycle using 'mount'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about mounting tension.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about mounting evidence.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about mounting a defense.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about mounting a comeback.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about mounting a picture.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about mounting pressure at work.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about mounting a search.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about mounting a drive (computer).

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about mounting the rostrum.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about mounting stairs.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about mounting excitement.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about mounting a campaign.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about mounting a specimen.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about mounting a hostile takeover.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Describe how to get on a bicycle using the word 'mount'.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Talk about a time you felt pressure mounting at school or work.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Explain why someone might need a 'wall mount' for their TV.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Discuss the phrase 'mounting evidence' in a criminal case.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

How would you 'mount a campaign' for a local charity?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Tell a short story about a knight and his horse using 'mount'.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Describe the mounting excitement before a big holiday.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Talk about mounting a search for a lost item.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Explain the importance of mounting a specimen correctly in science.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Discuss the challenges of mounting a comeback in professional sports.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Where would you mount a beautiful painting in your house?

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

How do you feel when your chores start mounting up?

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Describe a time a museum mounted an exhibition you liked.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

What are the risks of mounting a hostile takeover in business?

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

How does a speaker feel when mounting the rostrum?

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Why is Mount Everest so famous?

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Talk about mounting costs during a home renovation.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Describe mounting a defense in a sports game.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

What does it mean to mount a drive on a computer?

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Discuss the idiom 'getting on one's high horse'.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen to this sentence: 'The tension in the stadium was mounting as the clock ticked down.' What was happening?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen to this: 'We need to mount the sensors on the ceiling for better coverage.' Where should the sensors go?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen to this: 'The prosecution is mounting a case based on forensic evidence.' What is the prosecution doing?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen to this: 'He mounted his horse and galloped away.' How did he leave?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen to this: 'Costs are mounting up faster than we expected.' Are costs high or low?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen to this: 'The search for the missing plane was mounted at dawn.' When did the search start?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen to this: 'The lens mount is made of high-grade stainless steel.' What material is used?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen to this: 'Mount the picture on the wall, please.' What is the task?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen to this: 'Excitement is mounting for the movie release.' How do people feel about the movie?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen to this: 'The company is mounting a defense against the takeover.' What is the company doing?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen to this: 'The specimen must be mounted carefully to avoid damage.' Why be careful?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen to this: 'She mounted the stairs to find her cat.' Where did she go?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen to this: 'Pressure is mounting on the government to act.' Who is being pressured?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen to this: 'The jewels were mounted in a beautiful gold ring.' What was gold?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen to this: 'The software failed to mount the virtual disk.' What was the problem?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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