grill - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
grill Word Meanings
- to cook food over direct heat
- to ask someone intense questions
- a metal frame for cooking
grill Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
grill Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɡrɪl/
US
/ɡrɪl/
grill Word Etymology
grill = (from Old French grile = gridiron) + to cook over heat. Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a sizzling barbecue grid where meat is perfectly cooked over glowing coals.
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 InputReal Context
Grill is a versatile English word that works as both a verb and a noun. As a verb, grill means to cook food over direct heat, usually on a grate, often outdoors during a barbecue, and it implies quick cooking with visible flames or glowing coals. It can also mean to question someone intensely, in a persistent, probing way, especially in interviews or investigations. As a noun, grill refers to the metal frame or grate used for cooking, or to the entire cooking device itself, such as a charcoal or gas grill. The word derives from Old French grile, meaning gridiron, and the sense of heat and grid shape is clear across contexts.
Usage Reminders
- Cook with direct heat using a grill, not in an oven.
- Grill is used for cooking; be grilled or grilling for action in progress.
- As a noun, grill is the device or its metal grate.
- When talking about questioning, grill implies intensity and scrutiny.
- Be aware of the barbecue vs grill distinction in different regions.
- Practice with recipes and news reports to hear natural collocations.
Common Misconceptions
- Grill only means cooking; it does not include the sense of questioning.
- Grill equals barbecue in all contexts.
- Grill always involves open flames; some grills use hot plates.
- The noun grill cannot mean the device used for cooking.
- Be grilled is a fixed expression used only in journalism.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: keep it short and emphasize the two distinct senses with simple, real-life examples.
Learning Tips
- Focus on two core meanings first before adding nuance.
- Learn cooking collocations like grill meat and grilled vegetables.
- Note the noun grill as the device, not just the action.
- Practice be grilled by reporters to hear the tone.
- Compare grill with barbecue and broil to avoid false friends.
- Listen to native speech in cooking shows and interviews.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'grill'?
A.To cook food over an open flame or heat source
B.To sew fabric together
C.To write a formal letter
D.To fix a broken item
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'grill' used correctly?
A.She decided to grill a sandwich in the toaster.
B.He grilled her about her weekend plans.
C.The teacher grilled the students for not completing their homework.
D.The mechanic had to grill the engine to fix the car.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'grill'?
A.Bake
B.Sew
C.Read
D.Scold
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'grill'?
A.Freeze
B.Stitch
C.Praise
D.Play
Step 5: Mastery
In a real-life context, how would you use the word 'grill'?
A.I grilled some vegetables on the barbecue last night.
B.I read a book in the park.
C.She stitched a torn shirt.
D.He played basketball with his friends.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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