B1verb1K

Consume

UK /["/kənˈsjuːm/","/kənˈsjuːmz/","/kənˈsjuːmd/","/kənˈsjuːmɪŋ/"]/US /["/kənˈsuːm/","/kənˈsuːmz/","/kənˈsuːmd/","/kənˈsuːmɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to use something, especially fuel, energy or time

In simple words: To eat or drink something or to use up something.

Examples

  • We need to consume less energy to help the environment.
  • Many people consume large amounts of sugar without realizing it.
  • The fire consumed the entire building within minutes.
  • He took a moment to consume the information before making a decision.
  • In some cultures, it is common to consume alcohol during meals.
  • Animals consume food to gain energy for their daily activities.
  • The movie was so thrilling that it consumed my thoughts for days.
  • I like to consume different types of media, such as books and podcasts.

Usage notes

Use 'consume' in contexts related to food, energy, or resources. It's appropriate in both spoken and written language, but avoid it in very casual conversation where simpler words like 'eat' or 'drink' might be better.

Grammar pattern

consume + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'consumer' who eats or uses everything up.

Collocations

  • consume food
  • consume resources
  • consume energy
  • consume alcohol
  • consume information

Synonyms

  • devour
  • ingest
  • utilize
  • expend
  • absorb

Antonyms

  • produce
  • generate

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'consume' with 'use'; they can mean different things.
  • Using 'consuming' as an incorrect verb form without an object.
  • Mixing up the noun form 'consumption' with 'consume.'