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Box the Compass

What Does "Box the Compass" Mean?

homeidiomsBox the Compass
"Box the compass" is an English idiom. It means "to name the 32 points of the compass in order."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "box the compass" used in a sentence:
  • As a sailor, he could box the compass effortlessly.
  • She was so good at geography, she could box the compass in her sleep.
  • The exam had a question where we had to box the compass.
meaning for box the compass

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "Box the Compass" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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