Definition

1. Verb (transitive):
   • To utter or speak something in a sharp, abrupt, or angry manner: The phrase "bite out" describes the action of saying words forcefully, often with anger, frustration, or intense emotion, as if the words are being bitten off and spat out.

Usage

• The verb "bite out" is used with a direct object, which is the words being spoken. It is typically followed by a phrase like "a curse," "a reply," or "the words." It emphasizes the speaker's harsh or controlled anger in the moment of speaking.

Examples

• Verb:
  • She bit out a curse when she stubbed her toe.
  • He bit out a sharp reply before storming out of the room.
  • "Leave me alone," she bit out through clenched teeth.

Advanced Usage

• Emotional Connotation: "Bite out" almost always carries a negative emotional charge, implying irritation, rage, pain, or bitter sarcasm. It is not used for neutral or happy utterances.
• Physical Description: The phrase often implies a physical component to the speech, such as clenched teeth or a tight jaw, which visually connects to the action of "biting."

Variants and Related Words

• Bite (verb): The core verb meaning to cut or grip with the teeth. The phrasal verb "bite out" extends this physical action to the metaphorical realm of speech.
• Snap (verb): To say something quickly and angrily. A close synonym in context.
• Spit out (verb): To eject from the mouth; can be used metaphorically for speech with similar force ("He spat out an insult").

Synonyms

• Snarl: To say something in a vicious, growling manner.
• Hiss: To say something in a sharp, sibilant whisper, often with anger.
• Snap: To say something abruptly and irritably.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Bite back (words/phrases): To stop oneself from saying something.
  • He bit back a sarcastic comment.
• Bite off: To say something, often the beginning of a word or sentence, abruptly.
  • He bit off the end of his sentence when he saw her expression.

Related Idioms

• Bite your tongue: To stop yourself from saying something you want to say.
  • I had to bite my tongue during the argument.
• (To have) a biting remark/comment: A critical or sarcastic statement.
  • She made a biting remark about his performance.

Verb

1. utter
   • She bit out a curse