pour

The verb 'pour' is a fundamental word in English, essential for describing the action of transferring liquids. It signifies the controlled movement of a fluid from a source, such as a bottle, jug, or kettle, into another receptacle or onto a surface. The word implies a steady, continuous flow, rather than splashing or spilling.

The most common pattern is 'pour [something] into/onto [something else]'. For example, 'Please pour some milk into my coffee.' It can also be used intransitively, meaning the action is understood from context: 'Be careful when you pour.' The object being poured is often implied, especially in cooking or serving contexts. Another pattern involves pouring something out of a container, like 'He poured the old oil out of the car.'

This word is frequently used in everyday situations related to food and drink, such as serving beverages, cooking, or cleaning. You'll hear it when someone is preparing breakfast ('Pour the cereal into a bowl'), making tea ('Pour hot water over the tea bag'), or washing dishes ('Pour the soapy water down the drain'). It can also be used more broadly to describe rain ('The rain began to pour down') or other heavy flows, though this usage might be slightly more advanced than A2 level.

While 'pour' specifically refers to liquids flowing, 'spill' describes an accidental or uncontrolled flow, often resulting in mess. 'Drip' suggests a very slow, intermittent falling of liquid, drop by drop. 'Flow' is a more general term for movement, which can apply to liquids, gases, or even abstract concepts like time or traffic. 'Pour' emphasizes the deliberate action of transferring a liquid.