bite out
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- 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
- utter
- She bit out a curse