A2noun1K

Beef

UK /["/biːf/"]/US /["/biːf/"]/

Definition

meat that comes from a cow

In simple words: The meat from cows.

Examples

  • **roast beef**
  • beef and dairy cattle
  • minced/ground beef
  • a joint/fillet/cut of beef
  • a beef farmer/producer
  • She carved the beef thinly.
  • I bought a kilo of very lean minced beef.
  • Choose cuts of beef that are suitable for roasting.
  • What's his latest beef?

Usage notes

Used in cooking and discussions about food. It's neutral and accepted in both informal and formal contexts, but can be less appropriate in vegetarian or vegan discussions.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a big cow on a farm making beefy sounds.

Collocations

  • fresh
  • lean
  • fatty
  • bit
  • piece
  • slice
  • eat
  • boil
  • braise
  • broth
  • jerky
  • stew

Synonyms

  • beefsteak
  • cow meat
  • steak

Antonyms

  • pork
  • chicken

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'beef' as in meat vs 'beef' as in complaint.
  • Using 'beefs' incorrectly as a plural form.
  • Mistaking it for a vegetable or other type of meat.