C1verb2K

Dip

UK /["/dɪp/","/dɪps/","/dɪpt/","/ˈdɪpɪŋ/"]/US /["/dɪp/","/dɪps/","/dɪpt/","/ˈdɪpɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to put something quickly into a liquid and take it out again

In simple words: To put something briefly into a liquid, or to lower it a little.

Examples

  • She likes to dip her fries in ketchup before eating them.
  • Please dip the brush into the paint carefully to avoid spills.
  • The temperature will dip below zero tonight, so dress warmly.
  • He took a quick dip in the pool before dinner.
  • The stock market began to dip after the announcement of new tariffs.
  • She had to dip into her savings to pay for the emergency repairs.
  • They planned to dip their toes into different business ventures.
  • He dipped the cloth in water and wiped the dusty table.
  • The sun began to dip below the horizon, coloring the sky orange.

Usage notes

Use 'dip' when referring to briefly putting something into liquid, often for food or in art. Avoid using in formal contexts, as there are more precise terms.

Grammar pattern

dip + object

Memory hint

Think of a chip going for a dip into a salsa bowl!

Collocations

  • lightly
  • quickly
  • in
  • into
  • slightly
  • sharply
  • below
  • lightly
  • quickly
  • in
  • into

Synonyms

  • fall

Antonyms

  • rise
  • ascend

Common mistakes

  • Using 'dipped' instead of 'dip' in present tense situations.
  • Confusing 'dip' with 'drop' when describing actions.
  • Mixing up the noun 'dip' (like a sauce) with the verb form.