dip - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
dip Word Meanings
- to lower something into a liquid briefly
- to take a small amount from a larger source
- a thick sauce often for snacks
dip Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
dip Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪp/
US
/dɪp/
dip Word Etymology
From Old English 'dippian' (to dip, immerse), related to Dutch 'dippen'. Picture someone dipping a piece of bread into soup, with the soup glistening on the bread's surface.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I reach for a chip and hover it over a small bowl of glossy sauce. I slowly push it down into the liquid for a heartbeat, then pull it back with a slick coat. I feel the surface cling as I hold the chip steady and adjust my grip. This brief move becomes how I dip in real life—small, quick, and sure.
Real Context
Dip is a versatile word that works as both a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means to lower something briefly into a liquid or sauce and then lift it out, emphasizing a short immersion rather than a long soak. It can also mean taking a small amount from a larger source, as in dip into a jar or into savings. As a noun, dip refers to a thick sauce or paste designed for scooping with chips, vegetables, or bread. You can also use the phrasal sense dip into something metaphorically, like dipping into experience or a reserve. The core idea is a quick, partial immersion or small portion.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: brief immersion; use into with into for direction; noun refers to sauce; common collocations include dip into, dip sauce, and dipping bread or chips; avoid using dip for long submersion; note difference from dunk; informally, you can say ‘dip a toe in’ to mean a small start.
Common Misconceptions
- Dip always means a long submersion; it actually usually implies a brief immersion.
- Dip and dunk are interchangeable in every situation; dunk often implies a deeper or longer submersion.
- Dip into savings always means taking a lot of money; context shows it can be small amounts.
- The noun dip is only the sauce; it can also refer to the act of dipping itself.
- You cannot use dip with abstract concepts; you can dip into experiences or into data.
Thinking Differences
Learners often assume dip requires deep immersion like a dive, but in English it most often means a brief, practical immersion or a small portion taken from a larger reserve.
Learning Tips
- Practice with small portions: dip a chip into various sauces.
- Differentiate dip into (start into) vs dip into (use financials).
- Compare dip with dunk to feel the nuance.
- Focus on noun vs verb forms and common collocations.
- Listen for brief immersion signals in spoken English.
- Use visual cues (bread, sauce) to remember the sauce meaning.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'dip'?
A.Immerse
B.Decrease
C.Lower
D.Increase
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'dip' used correctly?
A.She decided to dip her grades on purpose.
B.The stock market had a sudden dip in prices.
C.He took a dip in the pool on a hot day.
D.I always dip my homework before submitting it.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'dip'?
A.Plunge
B.Increase
C.Rise
D.Ascend
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what situation would you most likely use the word 'dip'?
A.Celebrating a birthday
B.Swimming in the ocean
C.Exercising at the gym
D.Cooking a meal
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where 'dip' would be commonly used?
A.Answer: Dipping a paintbrush into a can of paint.
B.Answer: Making a dip for a party appetizer.
C.Answer: Taking a dip in a cold river after a long hike.
D.Answer: Going on a dip in a spaceship.
Related Listening
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