jam

In the first set of sentences, the word "jam" means that something or someone is unable to move, or it can mean that something prevents or limits movement.

• There was a big traffic jam following the accident. (This sentence uses "jam" as a noun.)
• My photocopier used to get jammed all the time, so we got a new one. (This sentence uses "jam" as a verb.)
• There’s a paper jam in the photocopier. (This sentence uses "jam" as a noun.)
• Signals to and from cell phones are sometimes jammed by tall buildings.
• The stores are often jammed with shoppers after Thanksgiving and before Christmas.
• Tokyo is known for having jammed subway cars. (This sentence uses "jam" as an adjective.)
• You shouldn’t try to jam too much into your suitcase when you go on a trip. Try to leave a little space.

Musicians who get together to play music jam:

• The jam session lasted until two in the morning.
• Alan would like to learn how to jam with other musicians who play the blues.
• Let’s get together and jam sometime.

"Jam" is also something that you can eat in the form of spreadable fruit. It’s similar to marmalade or jelly.

• Joey loves strawberry jam on toast.
• Sarah doesn’t like raspberry jam because of all the seeds in it.

Strawberry jam on toast

Note: if you have trouble making the "j" sound in English, click here to practice.

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This page was first published on August 23, 2012. It was amended on January 11, 2015.