Cool MateStir
UK /["/stɜː(r)/","/stɜːz/","/stɜːd/","/ˈstɜːrɪŋ/"]/US /["/stɜːr/","/stɜːrz/","/stɜːrd/","/ˈstɜːrɪŋ/"]/
Definition
to move a liquid or substance around, using a spoon or something similar, in order to mix it completely
In simple words: To mix something, usually a liquid, by moving it in circles.
Examples
- Please stir the soup gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
- She used a spoon to stir her coffee before drinking it.
- The politician's speech was designed to stir public emotions.
- His controversial remarks helped stir unrest in the community.
- The gentle breeze seemed to stir the leaves on the ground.
- He didn't stir from his seat even when called by the teacher.
Usage notes
Use 'stir' when mixing liquids or ingredients. It's best for cooking or preparing drinks, but less common for solids. Avoid in formal writing.
Grammar pattern
stir + object
Memory hint
Think of a chef stirring a pot of soup to mix it well.
Collocations
- thoroughly
- well
- carefully
- into
- stir over a high, low, etc. heat
- barely
- hardly
- slightly
- stir in your sleep
- deeply
- up
Synonyms
- mix
- combinate
- whisk
- blend
- agitate
Antonyms
- settle
- calm
Common mistakes
- Using 'stir' with an incorrect object (e.g., 'stir the table')
- Confusing 'stir' with 'shake' (not all stirring involves shaking)
- 'Stir' not being used in the correct tense (e.g., 'I stirrin the soup')