sting - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
sting Word Meanings
- to pierce or wound with a sharp organ
- to cause a sharp pain
- to affect profoundly or emotionally
sting Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
sting Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/stɪŋ/
US
/stɪŋ/
sting Word Etymology
sting = sting (Old English) + -ing (present participle suffix). Derived from Proto-Germanic *stinganą. A memory image could be a bee stinging you, causing sharp pain and that emotional sting when recalling a past hurt.
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
Sting is a versatile verb describing both physical sharpness and emotional impact. Literally, it means to pierce or wound with a sharp organ or object, as when a bee stings the skin or a plant needle stings the finger. Figuratively, a sting can refer to a sudden sharp pain, whether sensory or emotional, like a memory that stings or a criticism that stings. It can also mean to affect someone deeply, leaving a lasting impression of hurt or surprise. Common forms are sting, stings, stung, and stinging, and the word frequently appears in phrases such as the sting of regret or sting operations in journalism. Learners often mix up tenses or confuse sting with related verbs.
Usage Reminders
- Use sting for both physical pain and emotional impact
- Watch for irregular forms: stung is past tense, stinging is present participle
- Differentiate from stingy (not related) which means reluctant to give
- Collocate with adjectives like sharp, painful, or piercing
- In memory phrases, keep the noun form after the preposition: the sting of memory
Common Misconceptions
- Sting is only about insects; it can be physical or emotional, not just insect bites
- Confusing sting with stingy; sting is about hurting, stingy is about being frugal
- Mistaking stung as present tense; stung is past tense
- Thinking 'sting' only describes pain; it can also describe surprise or a critical remark
- Using sting in passive voice incorrectly; often natural in active voice
Thinking Differences
English often treats sting as both a physical event and a vivid metaphor; learners must track whether context is about pain, memory, or impact to choose the right sense.
Learning Tips
- Practice with both physical and emotional contexts
- Memorize core collocations: sting, stung, stinging, stingy
- Use memory aids for irregular forms
- Read and listen to natural phrases like the sting of regret
- Compare with similar verbs (pierce, stab, bite) to refine sense
- Record your own sentences to check tense accuracy
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'sting'?
A.A small flying insect
B.To jump quickly
C.A sharp pain
D.A type of dance
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'sting' correctly?
A.The sting of a bee is sweet.
B.The sting of a dog is painful.
C.The sting of a cat is delicious.
D.The sting of a bird is colorful.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is the most similar word to 'sting'?
A.Walk
B.Fly
C.Bite
D.Sleep
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'sting'?
A.Euphoria
B.Tickle
C.Peace
D.Onerous
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where 'sting' may occur?
A.Walking in the park
B.Gardening and getting stung by a bee
C.Playing with a pet
D.Eating ice cream
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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