outline
noun [ C ] uk/ˈaʊt.laɪn/ us/ˈaʊt.laɪn/
(SHAPE)
C2 轮廓，略图，外形
the main shape or edge of something, without any details
She drew the outline of the boat and then coloured it in. 她画了这只船的草图，然后给它着色。
in outline 轮廓
as a shape with an edge but without any details
The mountain was visible only in outline as the light faded. 光线暗了下来，只能看见山的轮廓。
Even in outline, the iconic building is instantly recognizable.
A figure at the back of the room has been painted over by the artist but is still faintly visible in outline.
In this light, you can make out one or two tall buildings in outline.
Most of the items are drawn in outline.
- More examples
- Underneath the hospital blankets I could see the outline of her poor wasted body.
- The outline of the castle on the hill was clearly defined against the evening sky.
(DESCRIPTION)
B2 大纲，概要，提要
a description of the main facts about something
If you read the minutes of the meeting, they'll give you a broad outline of what was discussed. 如果你看了会议记录，就会知道讨论的大概内容。
Some novelists start by writing an outline (= plan of the main points of the story). 有些小说家创作时会先写个提纲。
outline
verb [ T ] uk/ˈaʊt.laɪn/ us/ˈaʊt.laɪn/
(DRAW SHAPE)
勾勒，描画…的轮廓
to draw the main shape or edge of something
The area we're interested in is outlined in red on the map. 我们感兴趣的地区已经用红笔在地图上勾出来了。
- More examples
- Michael Davis has prepared a memorandum outlining our need for an additional warehouse.
- The progress of religious reforms is outlined in a separate chapter.
- The scheme outlined in Mr Smith's speech has the support of the committee.
- The introduction outlines the content each chapter.
- She spent ten minutes outlining the main features of the scheme.
(DESCRIBE)
B2 略述，概括
to give the main facts about something
At the interview she outlined what I would be doing. 面试时她简要介绍了一下我将要从事的工作。