breathalyser
noun C2
Plain meaning
a device police use to test alcohol in a driver’s breath
Exam-register meaning
In formal or high-level texts, it is used to describe a device police use to test alcohol in a driver’s breath, often with a precise or specialised tone.
In context
naturalThe article mentioned breathalyser as one of the main issues.
examThe author examines breathalyser in relation to social change, public policy, and institutional responsibility.
Common collocations
a clear breathalyserevidence of breathalyserwidespread breathalyser
Watch out
Do not use “breathalyser” as a vague high-level replacement; make sure the sentence really needs this specific noun.