position

Universal Words noun, verb noun place 1 [C] the place where sb/sth is situated: From his position on the cliff top, he had a good view of the harbour. * Where would be the best position for the lights? * These plants will grow well in a sheltered position. * The hotel stands in an elevated position looking out over the lake. 2 [U] the place where sb/sth is meant to be; the correct place: Is everybody in position? * He took up his position by the door. * She was learning to change her hand from first to third position (= on the strings of a violin). way of sitting / standing 3 [C,U] the way in which sb is sitting or standing or the way in which sth is arranged: a sitting / kneeling / lying position * Keep the box in an upright position. * Make sure that you are working in a comfortable position. * My arms were aching so I shifted (my) position slightly. * The soldiers had to stand for hours without changing position. situation 4 [C,usually sing.] ~ (to do sth) the situation that sb is in, especially when it affects what they can and cannot do: to be in a position of power / strength / authority * What would you do in my position? * This put him and his colleagues in a difficult position. * The company's financial position is not certain. * I'm afraid I am not in a position to help you. opinion 5 [C] ~ (on sth) an opinion on or an attitude towards a particular subject: to declare / reconsider / shift / change your position * the party's position on education reforms * She has made her position very clear. * My parents always took the position that early nights meant healthy children. level of importance 6 [C,U] a person or organization's level of importance when compared with others: the position of women in society * the company's dominant position in the world market * Wealth and position (= high social status) were not important to her. job 7 [C] (formal) a job: He held a senior position in a large company. * I should like to apply for the position of Sales Director. in race / competition 8 [C] a place in a race, competition, or test, when compared to others: United's 30 win moved them up to third position. in sport 9 [C] the place where sb plays and the responsibilities they have in some team games: What position does he play? in war 10 [C,usually pl.] a place where a group of people involved in fighting have put men and guns: They attacked the enemy positions at dawn. verb [VN] [usually +adv./prep.] to put sb/sth in a particular position: Large television screens were positioned at either end of the stadium. * She quickly positioned herself behind the desk. * Position your hands correctly on the shaft of the club. * The company is now well positioned to compete in foreign markets. positioning noun [U]