Cool MateBoil
UK /["/bɔɪl/","/bɔɪlz/","/bɔɪld/","/ˈbɔɪlɪŋ/"]/US /["/bɔɪl/","/bɔɪlz/","/bɔɪld/","/ˈbɔɪlɪŋ/"]/
Definition
when a liquid boils or when you boil it, it is heated to the point where it forms bubbles and turns to steam or vapour
In simple words: To heat a liquid until it makes bubbles and turns to steam.
Examples
- You need to boil the water before adding the pasta.
- To make the soup, you should first boil the vegetables.
- When the temperature is high enough, the water will start to boil.
- His anger began to boil when he heard the unfair comments.
- I could see her emotions boil over during the argument.
Usage notes
Used in cooking contexts, especially for foods like eggs or pasta. Avoid using 'boil' in informal conversations unless discussing food preparation.
Grammar pattern
boil + object
Memory hint
Imagine a pot of water that 'bubbles' up when hot — 'boil' sounds like 'bubble'.
Collocations
- furiously
- rapidly
- vigorously
- put something on to
- furiously
- rapidly
- vigorously
- put something on to
- furiously
- rapidly
- vigorously
- put something on to
Synonyms
- simmer
- seethe
- bubble
- heat
- cook
Antonyms
- freeze
- solidify
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'seethe' — 'boil' implies bubbles and rolling liquid, while 'seethe' can refer to agitation without boiling.
- Using 'boil' with inanimate objects rather than liquids — only liquids can boil.