C1verb2K

Toss

UK /["/tɒs/","/ˈtɒsɪz/","/tɒst/","/ˈtɒsɪŋ/"]/US /["/tɔːs/","/ˈtɔːsɪz/","/tɔːst/","/ˈtɔːsɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to throw something lightly or carelessly

In simple words: To throw something lightly.

Examples

  • She decided to toss the old clothes into the donation bin.
  • The chef taught us how to toss a salad properly to combine all the ingredients.
  • He gave a light toss of the coin before calling heads or tails.
  • During the game, the players toss the ball back and forth quickly.
  • The sea made the small boat toss violently in the storm.
  • She tossed her hair over her shoulder with a confident smile.

Usage notes

Use 'toss' when you mean to throw something casually or without much force. It's suitable in informal contexts but can also be used neutrally. Avoid in very formal writing.

Grammar pattern

toss + object

Memory hint

Toss sounds like 'lost' — imagine losing a ball by tossing it away.

Collocations

  • carelessly
  • casually
  • unceremoniously
  • into
  • out of
  • to
  • carelessly
  • casually
  • unceremoniously
  • into
  • out of
  • to
  • restlessly
  • about
  • around
  • toss and turn
  • gently
  • lightly
  • well
  • in

Synonyms

  • throw
  • fling
  • pitch
  • cast
  • hurl

Antonyms

  • catch
  • hold
  • retain

Common mistakes

  • 'Toss' used incorrectly as a noun instead of a verb.
  • Confusing 'toss' with 'throw' and using it in inappropriate contexts.
  • Using 'toss' only in sports contexts.