Cool MateGrin
UK /["/ɡrɪn/","/ɡrɪnz/","/ɡrɪnd/","/ˈɡrɪnɪŋ/"]/US /["/ɡrɪn/","/ɡrɪnz/","/ɡrɪnd/","/ˈɡrɪnɪŋ/"]/
Definition
to smile widely
In simple words: A wide smile showing your teeth.
Examples
- He couldn't help but grin when he saw the surprise party.
- The child grinned proudly after finishing the difficult puzzle.
- Despite the bad news, she managed to grin and stay positive.
- The tricky salesman grinned slyly as he made the deal.
- He grinned from ear to ear after winning the championship.
- The villain grinned menacingly in the shadowy room.
Usage notes
Use 'grin' to describe a happy or cheeky smile. It’s suitable for most contexts but can be overly informal in very serious situations.
Grammar pattern
grin + at + object
Memory hint
Think of a 'grin' as a 'big grin' — imagine a cat grinning widely.
Collocations
- broadly
- widely
- slightly
- at
- like
- to
- grin ear to ear
- grin from ear to ear
Synonyms
- smile
- beam
- grin widely
- smirk
Antonyms
- frown
- scowl
Common mistakes
- Confusing 'grin' with 'smile' — a grin is usually wider.
- Using 'grin' in a negative context — it's primarily positive.
- Saying 'grin' without a preposition when referring to who you're smiling at.