B2verb1K

Stare

UK /["/steə(r)/","/steəz/","/steəd/","/ˈsteərɪŋ/"]/US /["/ster/","/sterz/","/sterd/","/ˈsterɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to look at somebody/something for a long time

In simple words: To look at something without blinking or moving, usually for a long time.

Examples

  • She couldn't help but stare at the beautiful painting on the wall.
  • He felt uncomfortable as he realized people would stare at him during the speech.
  • The dog would stare at the door, waiting for its owner to come home.
  • It's rude to stare at strangers without a reason.
  • The teacher warned the students not to stare too long at the eclipse without proper glasses.

Usage notes

Use 'stare' when someone is looking at something or someone with intensity or surprise. It's neutral but can be perceived as rude if done for too long.

Grammar pattern

stare + at + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'stare' – imagine someone staring wide-eyed at a new movie.

Collocations

  • fixedly
  • hard
  • intently
  • seem to
  • continue to
  • turn to
  • at
  • across
  • around
  • sit staring
  • stand staring
  • sit and stare

Synonyms

  • gaze
  • glare
  • peer
  • ogle
  • watch

Antonyms

  • avert
  • glance
  • look away

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'gaze' – 'gaze' is often softer and more romantic.
  • Using 'stare' when 'look' is more appropriate for casual contexts.
  • Mixing up with 'glare', which implies anger or disapproval.