curdling

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Explanation of "Curdling"

Definition: The word "curdling" refers to the process where a liquid, especially milk, thickens and forms small, semisolid lumps. This usually happens when an acid (like lemon juice or vinegar) is added to milk or when milk is heated.

Advanced Usage:

In a more advanced context, "curdling" can be applied metaphorically. For example, one might say that a situation is "curdling" when it is becoming tense or uncomfortable, much like how milk curdles when it is disturbed.

Different Meanings:

• Literal Meaning: As described, it primarily refers to a physical change in liquids.
• Metaphorical Meaning: It can describe a situation that becomes sour or unpleasant.

Synonyms:

• Coagulating
• Thickening
• Clumping

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There aren't specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "curdling," but you might hear phrases like "things went sour," which can metaphorically relate to a situation curdling.

Academic

Noun

1. the process of forming semisolid lumps in a liquid

Synonyms

• clotting
• coagulation