The term "reams", while historically designating a precise measure of paper—specifically 500 sheets—has transcended its literal quantification to broadly signify an extensive amount of something.
It is predominantly employed to underscore a substantial volume of textual content or data, such that one might speak of "reams of documentation" to convey the sheer quantity of written material.
This usage extends metaphorically, allowing for expressions like "reams of evidence" or "reams of information," thereby emphasizing the overwhelming abundance rather than a mere physical count.
Consequently, its modern application often implies an almost excessive plenitude, far removed from its original, exact definition within the paper trade.
§ What Does 'Reams' Mean?
The word reams is a noun, typically used in its plural form. At its core, it refers to a very large quantity of something, with a strong historical connection to paper. While it has a precise technical meaning in the paper industry, its more common usage is as a general descriptor for abundance.
- DEFINITION
- A large quantity of something, typically referring to paper or written information. It originally denotes a specific unit of paper quantity, usually 500 sheets.
Historically, a ream was a standard unit of paper, almost universally defined as 500 sheets. This originated from the practice of bundling paper into specific quantities for sale and storage. Even today, when you purchase a package of printer paper, it often contains 500 sheets, which is indeed one ream. However, the term's application has broadened considerably beyond this precise measurement.
The printer was jammed again; we'd gone through reams of paper trying to get it to work.
§ When Do People Use 'Reams'?
People use 'reams' primarily in two contexts:
- Referring to Large Quantities of Paper: This is the most direct and common usage, stemming from its original meaning. When someone says they have reams of paper, they simply mean a very large amount. It doesn't necessarily imply an exact count of 500-sheet bundles, but rather an abundance.
- Referring to Extensive Written Information: This is an extension of the paper-related meaning. Since written information often appears on paper, 'reams' is metaphorically used to describe a great deal of written or textual content. This could include reports, documents, notes, or even data.
The lawyer presented reams of evidence to support his client's case.
It's important to note that 'reams' almost always implies a quantity that is somewhat overwhelming or impressive due to its sheer size. You wouldn't typically use it for a small or manageable amount. The word carries a connotation of plentifulness, often to the point of being excessive or difficult to process.
After the meeting, there were reams of notes to transcribe and organize.
The use of 'reams' in these contexts highlights its versatility as a descriptor of large quantities, moving beyond its specific historical definition to encompass a broader sense of abundance, particularly within the realm of printed or written materials. While you might occasionally encounter its precise meaning in a specialized context, its everyday use is much more general and serves to emphasize the sheer volume of something.
难度评级
The definition is straightforward, but understanding 'reams' in both its specific and general senses might require a bit more context than simpler words. The CEFR B1 level suggests a moderate understanding of vocabulary.
Using 'reams' correctly in a sentence, especially distinguishing between its literal paper quantity meaning and its figurative 'large quantity' meaning, could pose a slight challenge for B1 learners.
Pronunciation is relatively simple, but confidently using 'reams' in spontaneous speech, particularly with its dual meanings, might take a bit of practice for B1 speakers.
Understanding 'reams' in spoken context should be manageable for B1 learners, especially with surrounding context. The main challenge would be to immediately grasp whether it refers to paper or a general large quantity.
接下来学什么
前置知识
接下来学习
高级
按水平分级的例句
She had reams of paper on her desk, ready for the printing job.
Ella tenía resmas de papel en su escritorio, listas para el trabajo de impresión.
Here, 'reams' means a large quantity of paper.
The lawyer presented reams of evidence to the court.
El abogado presentó resmas de pruebas al tribunal.
'Reams of evidence' means a lot of evidence.
He wrote reams of poetry in his youth, but most of it was never published.
Él escribió resmas de poesía en su juventud, pero la mayoría nunca fue publicada.
This refers to a large amount of written poetry.
The professor had to read reams of student essays before grading them.
El profesor tuvo que leer resmas de ensayos de estudiantes antes de calificarlos.
Again, 'reams' indicates a large quantity of essays.
Despite writing reams of notes, she still felt unprepared for the exam.
A pesar de escribir resmas de apuntes, todavía se sentía poco preparada para el examen.
A large amount of notes was written.
The company produces reams of documents every day.
La empresa produce resmas de documentos todos los días.
This implies a large volume of documents.
There were reams of files stacked in the dusty old office.
Había resmas de archivos apilados en la polvorienta oficina antigua.
'Reams of files' means many files.
I've read reams about this topic, but I still don't fully understand it.
He leído resmas sobre este tema, pero aún no lo entiendo completamente.
This suggests reading a lot of written material on the topic.
The bureaucratic process involved reams of paperwork, each document requiring multiple signatures and stamps.
Hint: 'reams of paperwork' refers to a very large amount of documents.
Here, 'reams' is used figuratively to emphasize the large quantity.
Despite presenting reams of evidence, the defense struggled to convince the jury of their client's innocence.
Hint: 'reams of evidence' means a vast amount of proof.
The plural 'reams' highlights the sheer volume of information.
Her research produced reams of data, necessitating sophisticated software for analysis and interpretation.
Hint: 'reams of data' indicates an enormous quantity of information.
This usage emphasizes the extensive nature of the data collected.
The novelist had generated reams of manuscript pages, but only a fraction would ever see publication.
Hint: 'reams of manuscript pages' means a huge number of written pages.
Refers to the physical quantity of written work.
Critics often write reams about the artistic merits and philosophical underpinnings of his complex films.
Hint: 'write reams about' implies writing extensively on a topic.
Used metaphorically to mean a great deal of writing.
The legal discovery phase uncovered reams of emails and internal memos, shedding light on the company's dubious practices.
Hint: 'reams of emails and memos' suggests a vast collection of communications.
Emphasizes the overwhelming amount of digital documentation.
To understand the policy fully, one must sift through reams of legislative text and explanatory notes.
Hint: 'sift through reams' means to examine a very large volume of something carefully.
Illustrates the challenge of processing a large quantity of dense material.
The scientist's notebook contained reams of observations, calculations, and hypotheses, meticulously recorded over decades.
Hint: 'reams of observations' refers to a massive collection of recorded details.
Highlights the extensive and detailed nature of the scientist's work.
小贴士
Contextual Learning
When you encounter 'reams', try to understand its meaning from the surrounding words. For example, 'reams of paper' or 'reams of data'.
Visual Association
Imagine a large stack of paper when you hear 'reams'. This visual cue can help reinforce the meaning.
Origin Story
Remember that 'reams' originally referred to 500 sheets of paper. This historical context can deepen your understanding.
Synonym Practice
Think of synonyms for 'a large quantity', such as 'loads', 'masses', or 'plenty' to broaden your vocabulary.
Sentence Building
Create your own sentences using 'reams'. For instance, 'I have reams of homework to do' or 'The lawyer presented reams of evidence'.
Listen for Usage
Pay attention to how native speakers use 'reams' in conversations, movies, or podcasts. Note the context and tone.
Flashcard Technique
Make a flashcard with 'reams' on one side and its definition, including the original meaning, on the other. Review regularly.
Analogy Connection
Relate 'reams' to something similar in your native language that denotes a large, uncountable amount.
Reading Comprehension
Look for 'reams' in articles or books. Understanding its use in different written contexts can solidify its meaning.
Practice Speaking
Incorporate 'reams' into your spoken English. The more you use it, the more natural it will become. Don't be afraid to make mistakes.
自我测试 36 个问题
Write a short sentence using 'reams' to describe a lot of paper.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
I bought reams of paper for my printer.
Imagine you have a lot of homework. Write a sentence using 'reams' to talk about the amount of work.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
I have reams of homework to do tonight.
Your friend wants to borrow a lot of books. Write a sentence telling them you have 'reams' of books.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
I have reams of books you can borrow.
What did the teacher give to the class?
Read this passage:
My teacher gave us a lot of handouts today. She printed reams of papers for the whole class to read. We will need to read them all for the exam next week.
What did the teacher give to the class?
The passage says the teacher gave 'a lot of handouts' and printed 'reams of papers'.
The passage says the teacher gave 'a lot of handouts' and printed 'reams of papers'.
Why does the dad order reams of paper?
Read this passage:
My dad works in an office. He uses a lot of paper every day. He orders reams of paper every month to make sure they don't run out.
Why does the dad order reams of paper?
The passage states, 'He uses a lot of paper every day. He orders reams of paper every month'.
The passage states, 'He uses a lot of paper every day. He orders reams of paper every month'.
What did the person find a lot of at the library?
Read this passage:
I went to the library and found reams of interesting information for my project. There were so many books and articles. It was hard to choose just a few!
What did the person find a lot of at the library?
The passage says, 'I found reams of interesting information for my project'.
The passage says, 'I found reams of interesting information for my project'.
Imagine you are an office manager. Write an email to your supplier requesting a large quantity of paper, using the word 'reams' appropriately. Explain why you need so much.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Subject: Urgent Paper Order – Large Quantity Needed Dear [Supplier Name], I hope this email finds you well. Our office is currently undertaking a major documentation project, and as a result, we are in urgent need of a substantial amount of paper. Could you please provide a quote for 50 reams of A4 80gsm printer paper? We anticipate needing this much due to extensive printing and archiving. Please let me know the availability and estimated delivery time. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. Sincerely, [Your Name] Office Manager
You are a budding author. Write a short paragraph describing the process of researching your next book, highlighting the 'reams' of information you've had to go through.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
My desk is currently buried under reams of documents, articles, and historical texts, all part of the exhaustive research for my upcoming novel. It's a daunting task to sift through so much information, trying to discern the most accurate and relevant details for my narrative. Every day, I delve deeper into these vast quantities of written material, hoping to unearth that perfect quote or anecdote that will bring my story to life. The sheer volume can be overwhelming, but it's a necessary step in crafting a truly authentic piece of historical fiction.
Describe a situation where someone might need to read 'reams' of legal documents. What might be the purpose of reading so much, and what challenges could they face?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
A lawyer preparing for a complex corporate merger would undoubtedly need to read reams of legal documents. This could include extensive contracts, financial reports, regulatory filings, and due diligence reports from both companies involved. The purpose of poring over such a vast quantity of information is to ensure every clause, every condition, and every potential liability is thoroughly understood and addressed. Challenges would include maintaining focus over long periods, identifying crucial details hidden within dense legal jargon, and synthesizing disparate pieces of information to build a comprehensive understanding of the entire transaction.
What is the main challenge faced by the historian described in the passage?
Read this passage:
The historian spent countless hours in the archive, surrounded by reams of ancient manuscripts. Her goal was to uncover new evidence about a forgotten civilization. Each day brought fresh insights, but also the realization of how much more there was to examine. The sheer volume of parchment and paper was both a blessing and a curse; a blessing for the potential discoveries, and a curse for the laborious effort required to meticulously read through it all.
What is the main challenge faced by the historian described in the passage?
The passage explicitly states that the 'sheer volume of parchment and paper was both a blessing and a curse,' indicating the laborious effort as the main challenge.
The passage explicitly states that the 'sheer volume of parchment and paper was both a blessing and a curse,' indicating the laborious effort as the main challenge.
What was the project manager's primary responsibility with the 'reams of data'?
Read this passage:
After the meeting, the project manager was presented with reams of data from the marketing team. This included customer feedback, sales figures, and competitor analysis. It was her responsibility to condense all this information into a concise report for the board of directors. The task was daunting, but crucial for making informed strategic decisions.
What was the project manager's primary responsibility with the 'reams of data'?
The passage states, 'It was her responsibility to condense all this information into a concise report for the board of directors,' implying analysis and summarization.
The passage states, 'It was her responsibility to condense all this information into a concise report for the board of directors,' implying analysis and summarization.
What feeling is the journalist experiencing due to the 'reams of notes'?
Read this passage:
The young journalist was overwhelmed by the reams of notes she had taken during her investigation. Interviews, witness statements, and official reports piled up on her desk. She knew that somewhere within this mountain of information was the key to breaking the story, but finding it felt like searching for a needle in a haystack. Her editor was patiently waiting for her groundbreaking article.
What feeling is the journalist experiencing due to the 'reams of notes'?
The passage states, 'The young journalist was overwhelmed by the reams of notes' and 'finding it felt like searching for a needle in a haystack,' which indicates frustration and being overwhelmed.
The passage states, 'The young journalist was overwhelmed by the reams of notes' and 'finding it felt like searching for a needle in a haystack,' which indicates frustration and being overwhelmed.
The legal team had to sift through reams of documents to prepare for the court case.
'Reams' in this context means a large quantity, making 'a vast amount' the most fitting synonym.
Despite working tirelessly, she still had reams of paperwork to complete before the deadline.
The phrase 'working tirelessly' implies a large and challenging amount of work, so 'an overwhelming quantity' is the best fit.
The journalist published reams of articles on the political scandal, captivating the public's attention.
Given the context of 'captivating the public's attention' with 'articles,' 'reams' refers to a significant amount of writing.
If you have reams of information, it means you have very little data.
Having 'reams of information' signifies a large quantity of data, not a small amount.
The word 'reams' can be used to describe a great number of emails.
'Reams' can indeed refer to a large quantity of written or digital information, including emails.
The original meaning of 'reams' specifically refers to a large pile of clothes.
The original meaning of 'reams' relates to a specific quantity of paper (typically 500 sheets), not clothes.
You are a historian compiling research on ancient communication methods. In your report, explain how the availability of 'reams' of papyrus or parchment might have influenced the scope and detail of historical records. Discuss the implications for both the quantity of information recorded and the depth of analysis possible at the time. Your response should be approximately 100-120 words.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
The presence of reams of papyrus or parchment was a pivotal factor in shaping ancient historical records. A ready supply allowed scribes and scholars to document events with unprecedented detail and breadth, moving beyond terse inscriptions. This abundance fostered the creation of extensive chronicles, philosophical treatises, and legal codes, vastly increasing the sheer volume of information preserved. Furthermore, it facilitated more sophisticated analytical approaches, as researchers could compile and cross-reference multiple documents. Without such ample writing material, the depth of historical insight and the nuanced understanding of past societies would have been severely curtailed, limiting future interpretations.
Imagine you are a literary critic reviewing a newly published novel. The author is known for their verbose style. In your review, critically analyze how the author's use of 'reams' of descriptive language contributes to or detracts from the narrative's effectiveness. Provide specific examples of how this stylistic choice impacts reader engagement and thematic development. Your response should be approximately 100-120 words.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
In this latest novel, the author's penchant for reams of descriptive language presents a double-edged sword. While intended to immerse the reader, the sheer volume of intricate detail occasionally overwhelms, causing the narrative momentum to falter. For instance, paragraphs dedicated to minute environmental observations, though beautifully crafted, can detract from character development or plot progression. However, in moments of thematic significance, such as exploring the protagonist's internal turmoil, the extensive descriptions amplify emotional resonance and deepen understanding. The challenge lies in discerning when this stylistic choice enhances thematic development and when it merely adds unnecessary prolixity, ultimately impacting reader engagement.
You are a project manager writing an internal memo to your team about a significant documentation backlog. Explain the impact of having 'reams' of unreviewed or incomplete project documentation on project timelines, resource allocation, and potential compliance issues. Propose at least two actionable steps to address this problem. Your memo should be approximately 100-120 words.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Team, the growing reams of unreviewed and incomplete project documentation are significantly impacting our operations. This backlog creates substantial delays in project timelines as critical information is either inaccessible or requires extensive searching, hindering decision-making. Furthermore, it misallocates resources, as time spent sifting through disorganized data could be better utilized on core project tasks. Crucially, such a state poses considerable compliance risks, as audit trails become fragmented and difficult to verify. To mitigate this, I propose two immediate steps: first, implementing a strict 'document-as-you-go' policy, and second, dedicating a focused team effort next week to clear the most urgent outstanding documentation.
What was the primary challenge faced by the economists?
Read this passage:
Despite having access to reams of historical data, the economists struggled to formulate an accurate predictive model. The sheer volume of disparate information, much of it contradictory or incomplete, proved to be an impediment rather than an asset. Their initial optimism waned as they realized that more data did not automatically equate to clearer insights, especially without sophisticated analytical tools to discern patterns amidst the noise.
What was the primary challenge faced by the economists?
The passage states, 'The sheer volume of disparate information, much of it contradictory or incomplete, proved to be an impediment rather than an asset.' This indicates that the nature of the data, rather than its quantity, was the main problem.
The passage states, 'The sheer volume of disparate information, much of it contradictory or incomplete, proved to be an impediment rather than an asset.' This indicates that the nature of the data, rather than its quantity, was the main problem.
What was the opposing counsel's main argument regarding the presented evidence?
Read this passage:
The lawyer presented reams of evidence to the court, hoping to sway the jury. Each document meticulously detailed transactions, communications, and sworn affidavits, painting a comprehensive picture of the defendant's alleged culpability. However, the opposing counsel successfully argued that while voluminous, much of the evidence was circumstantial and lacked direct proof connecting the defendant to the core accusations, creating reasonable doubt.
What was the opposing counsel's main argument regarding the presented evidence?
The passage explicitly states that the opposing counsel 'successfully argued that while voluminous, much of the evidence was circumstantial and lacked direct proof connecting the defendant to the core accusations.'
The passage explicitly states that the opposing counsel 'successfully argued that while voluminous, much of the evidence was circumstantial and lacked direct proof connecting the defendant to the core accusations.'
According to the passage, what was a potential benefit of sifting through physical 'reams' of documents that might be less common with digital archives?
Read this passage:
Before the advent of digital archives, researchers often had to sift through reams of physical manuscripts and printed materials. This laborious process, though time-consuming, frequently led to serendipitous discoveries as scholars stumbled upon connections or references they hadn't initially sought. While digital tools offer unparalleled speed and search capabilities, some argue that the physical act of engaging with 'reams' of documents fostered a different, perhaps deeper, form of intellectual engagement.
According to the passage, what was a potential benefit of sifting through physical 'reams' of documents that might be less common with digital archives?
The passage mentions that the laborious physical process 'frequently led to serendipitous discoveries as scholars stumbled upon connections or references they hadn't initially sought,' which highlights an advantage of the older method.
The passage mentions that the laborious physical process 'frequently led to serendipitous discoveries as scholars stumbled upon connections or references they hadn't initially sought,' which highlights an advantage of the older method.
Focus on the quantity of documents.
Consider the amount of evidence presented.
Think about the volume of her written work.
Read this aloud:
Can you elaborate on how reams of regulations might inadvertently hinder innovation within nascent industries?
Focus: reams, inadvertently, nascent
你说的：
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
Discuss the ethical implications of collecting reams of personal data without explicit, informed consent.
Focus: reams, explicit, informed consent
你说的：
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
Explain how an overabundance of reams of historical documents can sometimes obscure rather than illuminate the truth.
Focus: reams, obscure, illuminate
你说的：
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
This sentence uses 'reams' to signify a vast amount of data, fitting the C2 context of complex information processing.
Here, 'reams' implies an extensive body of written work, demonstrating a high level of academic output, appropriate for C2.
This sentence employs 'reams' to convey a significant volume of critical feedback, a nuance often encountered at C2 level.
/ 36 correct
Perfect score!
Contextual Learning
When you encounter 'reams', try to understand its meaning from the surrounding words. For example, 'reams of paper' or 'reams of data'.
Visual Association
Imagine a large stack of paper when you hear 'reams'. This visual cue can help reinforce the meaning.
Origin Story
Remember that 'reams' originally referred to 500 sheets of paper. This historical context can deepen your understanding.
Synonym Practice
Think of synonyms for 'a large quantity', such as 'loads', 'masses', or 'plenty' to broaden your vocabulary.
