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B1 Verb / Noun #27 le plus courant 15 min de lecture

sink

Top 27

At the A1 level, learners focus on the most basic and concrete meanings of 'sink'. As a noun, it is introduced as a common household object found in the kitchen or bathroom. Students learn to identify it in pictures and use it in simple sentences like 'The sink is white' or 'Wash your hands in the sink'. As a verb, it is often taught in the context of basic physics or play, such as 'The toy sinks in the bath'. The focus is on physical objects and direct observation. Vocabulary at this level is very literal, and learners are not expected to understand metaphorical or idiomatic uses. They learn the word through repetition and visual aids, associating the sound and spelling with the physical object or the simple action of going down in water. The goal is to build a foundation of high-frequency nouns and verbs for daily life.

At the A2 level, learners begin to expand their use of 'sink' to include slightly more complex physical descriptions and very common collocations. They might use it to describe the sun going down ('The sun sinks in the evening') or a boat having an accident ('The small boat sank in the lake'). At this stage, learners are introduced to the irregular past tense 'sank', although they might still make mistakes. They also start to recognize 'sink' in common phrases like 'kitchen sink'. The noun 'sink' is used more naturally in descriptions of daily routines and house descriptions. Learners at A2 can follow simple instructions involving a sink, such as 'Put the dirty dishes in the sink'. They are beginning to move beyond the most basic sentences to more descriptive ones, but the usage remains largely physical and literal.

At the B1 level, the target level for this word, learners should be comfortable with both the noun and verb forms in a variety of contexts. They should master the irregular forms (sink, sank, sunk) and use them correctly in most situations. B1 learners are introduced to metaphorical uses, such as 'my heart sank' or 'the prices are sinking'. They can understand and use phrasal verbs like 'sink in' (to understand) and 'sink into' (to relax). The concept of 'sinking money' into something is also accessible at this level. B1 students can describe more complex scenarios, such as a business failing or a person's mood changing. They are also expected to know the difference between 'sink' and 'drown'. This level marks a transition from purely physical descriptions to more abstract and expressive language, allowing for more nuanced communication in social and professional settings.

At the B2 level, learners use 'sink' with greater precision and variety. They are familiar with more specialized terms like 'heat sink' or 'carbon sink' and can use them in technical or academic discussions. They understand a wider range of idioms, such as 'sink or swim' or 'sink your teeth into something'. B2 learners can use 'sink' to describe subtle changes in quality or status, such as 'the standards have sunk'. They are also more aware of regional differences, such as the use of 'basin' versus 'sink'. Their writing becomes more sophisticated, using 'sink' to create imagery or to describe complex emotional states. At this level, the word is used flexibly across different registers, from informal conversation to more formal reports or essays. The focus is on using the word accurately to convey specific shades of meaning.

At the C1 level, learners have a deep and nuanced understanding of 'sink'. They can use it in highly literary or specialized contexts. They might use it to describe geological subsidence or the 'sunk cost fallacy' in economics. C1 learners are sensitive to the connotations of the word, such as the negative implications of 'sinking' an investment versus the positive sense of 'sinking' a shot in sports. They can use the word to create complex metaphors and are comfortable with all its idiomatic expressions. Their use of 'sink' is effortless and integrated into a very high level of English proficiency. They can appreciate the historical etymology of the word and how its meaning has evolved over time. At this level, 'sink' is just one of many tools used to express precise and sophisticated ideas with a high degree of control.

At the C2 level, mastery of 'sink' is complete. The learner can use the word in any context with the same level of nuance as a highly educated native speaker. They can play with the word's multiple meanings for rhetorical effect or in creative writing. They understand obscure or archaic uses of the word and can navigate technical jargon in fields like thermodynamics or environmental science where 'sink' has specific definitions. A C2 learner can discuss the philosophical implications of 'sinking into oblivion' or the intricate details of plumbing systems with equal ease. The word is used with perfect grammatical accuracy and appropriate register. At this level, the learner's command of 'sink' reflects a comprehensive understanding of the English language's depth and flexibility.

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

sink en 30 secondes

As a verb, 'sink' means to move downward through water or a soft substance, or to decrease in value, quality, or emotional state.
As a noun, 'sink' refers to the common kitchen or bathroom basin used for washing hands, dishes, and other items.
The word is irregular in its verb form, with 'sank' as the past tense and 'sunk' as the past participle.
It is used in many common idioms like 'sink or swim' and phrasal verbs like 'sink in' or 'sink into'.

The word 'sink' is a versatile and essential term in the English language, functioning as both a dynamic verb and a common noun. At its most fundamental level, as a verb, 'sink' describes the physical process of an object moving downward through a liquid or a soft substance because of its weight or a lack of buoyancy. This is the primary physical definition that most learners encounter first. However, the word extends far beyond the simple act of a stone falling to the bottom of a pond. It encompasses a wide range of metaphorical and technical meanings that are crucial for achieving fluency at the B1 level and beyond. When we speak of the noun 'sink,' we are almost always referring to the plumbing fixture found in kitchens and bathrooms—a basin designed for washing hands, dishes, or food, equipped with a water supply and a drainage system. Understanding the interplay between these two forms is key to mastering the word's utility in daily conversation and professional writing.

Physical Motion: The act of descending below the surface of water or another liquid. This can be intentional, like a submarine diving, or accidental, like a ship taking on water after hitting an iceberg.

The heavy anchor began to sink rapidly toward the ocean floor as soon as it was released from the vessel.

Beyond the physical, 'sink' is frequently used to describe a decline in quality, value, or emotional state. For instance, if a person's heart 'sinks,' they are experiencing a sudden feeling of disappointment or sadness. Similarly, in economics, we might say that stock prices are 'sinking,' which indicates a significant and perhaps worrying decrease in market value. This metaphorical flexibility makes 'sink' a powerful tool for expression. In the context of domestic life, the noun 'sink' is indispensable. It is the centerpiece of the kitchen, where preparation and cleaning occur. Interestingly, the phrase 'everything but the kitchen sink' highlights the sink's status as a heavy, permanent fixture that is rarely moved, symbolizing the totality of one's possessions or a list of items.

Emotional Impact: Used to describe a sudden drop in mood or a feeling of dread. It often accompanies bad news or a realization of a mistake.

My heart sank when I realized I had left my passport on the kitchen table before heading to the airport.

In technical and scientific contexts, 'sink' takes on even more specialized meanings. A 'heat sink' in computing is a component that absorbs and dissipates heat from another object, like a processor, to prevent overheating. In environmental science, a 'carbon sink' is a natural or artificial reservoir that accumulates and stores some carbon-containing chemical compound for an indefinite period, such as a forest or an ocean. These uses demonstrate how the core concept of 'absorbing' or 'going down into' is adapted across various fields of study. Whether you are washing dishes in the kitchen sink or discussing the sinking of a major investment, the word remains central to clear communication in English.

The computer technician installed a larger heat sink to ensure the high-performance gaming rig would not crash during intense use.

Geological Subsidence: The gradual caving in or sinking of an area of land. This is often caused by the removal of groundwater or mining activities.

The old mining town began to sink as the abandoned tunnels beneath the streets started to collapse over time.

The sun began to sink below the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant shades of orange, pink, and deep purple.

Using 'sink' correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical roles as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it is straightforward: it refers to the basin. You might say, 'The dishes are piling up in the sink,' or 'I need to fix the leaky faucet in the bathroom sink.' In these cases, 'sink' is a countable noun. As a verb, however, 'sink' is more complex because it is irregular and can be used both transitively (with an object) and intransitively (without an object). Understanding these nuances is essential for clear communication, especially when moving from basic descriptions to more advanced narrative or technical writing.

Intransitive Use: When 'sink' is used without a direct object, it describes the subject itself moving downward. For example, 'The boat is sinking' tells us what the boat is doing.

After the heavy rain, the garden soil began to sink, creating small puddles throughout the yard.

The transitive use of 'sink' involves an agent causing something else to go down. For instance, 'The pirate ship sank the merchant vessel.' Here, the pirate ship is the subject, and the merchant vessel is the object being sunk. This distinction is important for clarity. Furthermore, the irregular conjugation of 'sink' (sink, sank, sunk) is a common stumbling block for English learners. 'Sank' is the simple past tense (e.g., 'The ship sank yesterday'), while 'sunk' is the past participle used with auxiliary verbs (e.g., 'The ship has sunk'). Interestingly, in modern American English, 'sunk' is occasionally used as the simple past, but 'sank' remains the standard in formal writing and British English.

Transitive Use: When 'sink' takes an object, it means to cause that object to go down. This is common in sports, like 'sinking a putt' in golf or 'sinking a basket' in basketball.

The professional golfer managed to sink a twenty-foot putt on the final hole to win the entire tournament.

We also use 'sink' in various phrasal verbs and idiomatic expressions that enrich the language. 'Sink in' is a common phrasal verb meaning to be fully understood or realized. For example, 'It took a while for the news of his promotion to sink in.' Another common expression is 'sink or swim,' which describes a situation where you must either succeed by your own efforts or fail completely. These expressions are vital for B1 learners as they appear frequently in movies, books, and daily conversations. By mastering these patterns, you can move from literal descriptions to more figurative and nuanced communication.

The reality of the situation finally began to sink in after she saw the damage caused by the storm.

Phrasal Verbs: Common combinations include 'sink in' (to understand), 'sink into' (to relax into something soft), and 'sink away' (to disappear slowly).

After a long day at the office, there is nothing better than to sink into a comfortable armchair with a good book.

The sun will sink below the horizon in about twenty minutes, so we should finish our walk soon.

The word 'sink' is ubiquitous in English, appearing in environments ranging from the most mundane domestic settings to high-stakes financial and scientific discussions. In a typical household, the kitchen sink is a focal point of daily activity. You will hear it mentioned when discussing chores ('Who's going to empty the sink?'), home improvement ('We're installing a new stainless steel sink'), or even hygiene ('Make sure you wash your hands in the bathroom sink'). Because it is such a fundamental object, it serves as a common reference point in everyday life. In these contexts, the word is almost always used as a noun, and its meaning is clear and literal.

Domestic Settings: The kitchen and bathroom are the most common places to hear 'sink' as a noun. It is associated with water, cleaning, and daily routines.

Please don't leave your dirty coffee mugs in the sink; put them directly into the dishwasher instead.

In the world of news and current events, the verb 'sink' frequently appears in headlines. It is used to describe maritime disasters ('The cargo ship sank during the hurricane'), but it is even more common in economic reporting. Financial analysts often use 'sink' to describe falling markets, currencies, or stock prices. For example, 'The value of the pound sank to an all-time low following the announcement.' This usage conveys a sense of rapid and significant decline, often with negative implications for the economy. Similarly, in political news, a scandal might 'sink' a candidate's chances of winning an election, meaning it causes their popularity or viability to collapse.

Financial News: Used to describe a sharp decrease in the value of assets, stocks, or entire economies. It suggests a downward trend that may be difficult to reverse.

Investors watched in horror as their shares began to sink following the company's disappointing quarterly earnings report.

Scientific and environmental discussions also provide a rich context for 'sink.' As mentioned earlier, 'carbon sinks' are a major topic in climate change debates. Scientists discuss how oceans and forests act as sinks for carbon dioxide, helping to regulate the Earth's temperature. In engineering, 'heat sinks' are critical for the longevity of electronic devices. If you work in tech or follow science news, you will encounter these terms regularly. Furthermore, in literature and film, the word 'sink' is often used metaphorically to describe a character's descent into despair or moral decay. A character might 'sink into a life of crime' or 'sink into a deep depression.' These varied contexts show that 'sink' is a word that bridges the gap between the physical world and abstract concepts.

The Amazon rainforest is one of the world's most important carbon sinks, absorbing billions of tons of carbon dioxide every year.

Metaphorical Descent: Used in storytelling to describe a character's worsening situation or emotional state. It often implies a loss of control or a downward spiral.

He felt himself sink further into despair as each new piece of bad news arrived in the mail.

The news anchor reported that a massive sinkhole had opened up in the middle of a busy suburban street overnight.

One of the most frequent errors learners make with the word 'sink' involves its irregular past tense forms. Because many English verbs follow a regular pattern (adding '-ed'), it is tempting to say 'sinked.' However, 'sinked' is incorrect. The standard past tense is 'sank,' and the past participle is 'sunk.' This can be particularly confusing because 'sunk' is also used as an adjective (e.g., 'a sunk cost'). To avoid this mistake, it is helpful to group 'sink' with other verbs that follow a similar i-a-u pattern, such as 'drink, drank, drunk' or 'swim, swam, swum.' Remembering this pattern can make the irregular forms feel more natural and less like isolated exceptions.

Sank vs. Sunk: Use 'sank' for the simple past: 'The ship sank.' Use 'sunk' for the past participle: 'The ship has sunk.' Avoid using 'sunk' as the simple past in formal writing.

Correct: The Titanic sank in 1912. Incorrect: The Titanic sunk in 1912.

Another common mistake is confusing 'sink' with 'drown.' While both involve being underwater, they are used differently. 'Drown' is specifically used for living beings (people, animals, plants) that die because they cannot breathe in water. 'Sink' is used for objects or beings that move downward in water, regardless of whether they die. For example, a person can sink to the bottom of a pool but still be alive if they are holding their breath or using scuba gear. However, if they die because of the water, they have drowned. Using 'sink' when you mean 'drown' can lead to confusion about the severity or nature of the situation.

Sink vs. Drown: 'Sink' refers to the downward motion. 'Drown' refers to death caused by inhaling water. You would say 'The ship sank,' but 'The passengers drowned.'

The rescue team arrived just as the car began to sink, preventing the driver from drowning.

Learners also sometimes struggle with the noun 'sink' versus 'basin.' In many English-speaking regions, 'sink' is the general term for both kitchen and bathroom fixtures. However, in British English, 'basin' (or 'washbasin') is more commonly used for the bathroom, while 'sink' is reserved for the kitchen. Using 'sink' for a bathroom fixture in the United Kingdom is generally understood but might sound slightly informal or Americanized. Conversely, using 'basin' for a kitchen fixture in the United States might sound overly formal or unusual. Understanding these regional preferences can help you sound more like a native speaker depending on where you are.

In London, she asked where the bathroom basin was, whereas in New York, she would have simply said 'sink'.

Phrasal Verb Misuse: Confusing 'sink in' with 'sink down'. 'Sink in' is for understanding ideas; 'sink down' is for physical movement, like sitting in a chair.

He watched the stone sink down through the clear water until it reached the sandy bottom.

The professor gave us a complex problem that we could really sink our teeth into during the seminar.

To expand your vocabulary beyond the word 'sink,' it is useful to explore its synonyms and related terms, as each carries a slightly different nuance. For the verb 'sink,' synonyms like 'submerge,' 'descend,' 'plummet,' and 'decline' can be used depending on the context. 'Submerge' implies being completely covered by water, often intentionally. 'Descend' is a more formal and general term for moving downward. 'Plummet' suggests a very rapid and steep drop, often used for prices or physical objects falling from a height. 'Decline' is typically used for abstract things like health, quality, or numbers. Choosing the right synonym can make your writing more precise and evocative.

Sink vs. Submerge: 'Sink' is the general act of going down. 'Submerge' specifically means to go under the surface of a liquid. You can sink into mud without being fully submerged.

The submarine began to submerge as it prepared for its underwater mission in the Pacific.

When considering the noun 'sink,' alternatives include 'basin,' 'washbowl,' 'lavatory' (in some contexts), and 'trough.' As mentioned, 'basin' is the most common alternative, especially in bathrooms. 'Washbowl' is a bit more old-fashioned, referring to a bowl used for washing the face and hands. 'Trough' is used for long, narrow containers, often for animals to drink from or for industrial purposes. In a professional kitchen, you might hear the term 'scullery sink' or 'prep sink' to specify the function of the fixture. Knowing these specific terms can be very helpful in specialized environments like construction, interior design, or the culinary arts.

Sink vs. Plummet: 'Sink' can be slow or fast. 'Plummet' is always very fast and usually from a great height. A bird might plummet from the sky, while a ship sinks into the sea.

Temperatures are expected to plummet tonight as a cold front moves in from the north.

In metaphorical usage, 'sink' can be replaced by words like 'founder' or 'fail.' For example, 'The project sank' could be expressed as 'The project foundered.' 'Founder' is a particularly good synonym for 'sink' when referring to a plan or a business that fails because of internal problems. For emotional states, 'sink' can be replaced by 'droop' or 'sag.' For instance, 'Her spirits sank' vs 'Her spirits sagged.' These alternatives allow for a more varied and sophisticated expression of ideas. By understanding the subtle differences between these words, you can tailor your language to the specific tone and meaning you wish to convey.

The negotiations foundered over the issue of wage increases, leading to a stalemate between the two parties.

Sink vs. Decline: 'Sink' often implies a more dramatic or physical drop. 'Decline' is more gradual and is often used for statistics or health.

The patient's health began to decline rapidly after the surgery, causing great concern for the medical team.

Many once-famous actors have allowed their careers to sink into oblivion by choosing poor roles.

How Formal Is It?

Formel

Neutre

Informel

Child friendly

Argot

Le savais-tu ?

The noun 'sink' originally referred to a pit or a place where sewage and waste water collected, which is why it has the same name as the action of water going down. The modern, clean kitchen sink is a relatively recent development in human history.

Guide de prononciation

UK /sɪŋk/

US /sɪŋk/

The word is a single syllable, so the stress is naturally on that syllable.

Rime avec

pink link drink think blink wink shrink mink ink

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing it like 'sing' without the final 'k' sound.
Using a long 'ee' sound like 'seenk' instead of the short 'i'.
Confusing the past tense 'sank' with 'sunk'.
Over-emphasizing the 'k' sound at the end.
Merging the 'n' and 'k' into a single nasal sound without the 'k' closure.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

The literal meaning is easy, but metaphorical uses in news can be harder.

Écriture 3/5

Irregular past tense forms (sank/sunk) often cause mistakes.

Expression orale 2/5

Pronunciation is simple, but idioms require practice to use naturally.

Écoute 2/5

Clear pronunciation makes it easy to hear in most contexts.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

water wash down heavy fall

Apprends ensuite

submerge descend plummet basin plumbing

Avancé

subsidence buoyancy thermodynamics oblivion fallacy

Grammaire à connaître

Irregular Verbs (i-a-u pattern)

sink (present), sank (past), sunk (past participle)

Transitive vs. Intransitive

The ship sank (intransitive). The torpedo sank the ship (transitive).

Phrasal Verbs

Sink in, sink into, sink away.

Compound Nouns

Kitchen sink, bathroom sink, heat sink.

Passive Voice with Irregular Verbs

The boat was sunk by the storm.

Exemples par niveau

The kitchen sink is full of water.

Le lavabo de la cuisine est plein d'eau.

Noun: singular, countable.

I wash my face in the sink.

Je me lave le visage dans le lavabo.

Noun: used with the preposition 'in'.

The stone will sink in the water.

La pierre va couler dans l'eau.

Verb: future tense with 'will'.

Put the cup in the sink, please.

Mets la tasse dans l'évier, s'il te plaît.

Imperative sentence.

Does the toy sink or float?

Est-ce que le jouet coule ou flotte ?

Present simple question.

The sink is next to the stove.

L'évier est à côté de la cuisinière.

Prepositional phrase 'next to'.

There is a mirror above the sink.

Il y a un miroir au-dessus du lavabo.

There is/are construction.

He is cleaning the sink now.

Il nettoie l'évier maintenant.

Present continuous tense.

The sun sinks behind the mountains every evening.

Le soleil se couche derrière les montagnes chaque soir.

Verb: present simple for habitual actions.

A large ship sank in the ocean many years ago.

Un grand navire a coulé dans l'océan il y a de nombreuses années.

Verb: irregular past tense 'sank'.

We need to buy a new sink for our bathroom.

Nous devons acheter un nouveau lavabo pour notre salle de bain.

Noun: modified by the adjective 'new'.

The water in the sink is very hot.

L'eau dans l'évier est très chaude.

Subject-verb agreement.

Heavy things sink faster than light things.

Les choses lourdes coulent plus vite que les choses légères.

Comparative adverb 'faster than'.

She dropped her ring down the sink drain.

Elle a fait tomber sa bague dans le drain de l'évier.

Compound noun 'sink drain'.

The boat began to sink after it hit a rock.

Le bateau a commencé à couler après avoir heurté un rocher.

Infinitive after 'began to'.

I always wash the dishes in the kitchen sink.

Je lave toujours la vaisselle dans l'évier de la cuisine.

Adverb of frequency 'always'.

My heart sank when I heard the bad news.

Mon cœur a sombré quand j'ai appris la mauvaise nouvelle.

Metaphorical use of 'sink' for emotions.

It took a few minutes for the information to sink in.

Il a fallu quelques minutes pour que l'information soit bien comprise.

Phrasal verb 'sink in'.

They have sunk a lot of money into their new business.

Ils ont investi beaucoup d'argent dans leur nouvelle entreprise.

Verb: past participle 'sunk' used with 'have'.

The Titanic sank on its first voyage across the Atlantic.

Le Titanic a coulé lors de son premier voyage à travers l'Atlantique.

Historical reference using past tense 'sank'.

I love to sink into a hot bath after a long day.

J'adore me plonger dans un bain chaud après une longue journée.

Phrasal verb 'sink into' for relaxation.

The price of oil has been sinking for several months.

Le prix du pétrole baisse depuis plusieurs mois.

Present perfect continuous 'has been sinking'.

The ground is sinking because of the heavy building.

Le sol s'enfonce à cause du bâtiment lourd.

Verb: describing physical subsidence.

He managed to sink the winning basket in the final seconds.

Il a réussi à marquer le panier de la victoire dans les dernières secondes.

Sports context: 'sink' meaning to score.

The company's reputation sank after the scandal was revealed.

La réputation de l'entreprise a chuté après la révélation du scandale.

Metaphorical use for status/reputation.

A heat sink is necessary to keep the computer processor cool.

Un dissipateur thermique est nécessaire pour garder le processeur de l'ordinateur au frais.

Technical noun 'heat sink'.

The sun was sinking low in the sky, casting long shadows.

Le soleil descendait bas dans le ciel, projetant de longues ombres.

Past continuous for descriptive background.

In this job, it's often a case of sink or swim.

Dans ce travail, c'est souvent une question de marche ou crève.

Idiom 'sink or swim'.

The heavy rain caused the foundations of the house to sink.

La forte pluie a fait s'affaisser les fondations de la maison.

Causative structure 'caused ... to sink'.

She sank her teeth into the new project with great enthusiasm.

Elle s'est investie à fond dans le nouveau projet avec beaucoup d'enthousiasme.

Idiom 'sink your teeth into'.

The value of the currency has sunk to its lowest level in years.

La valeur de la monnaie est tombée à son niveau le plus bas depuis des années.

Present perfect for recent events with current relevance.

The ship was sunk by a torpedo during the naval battle.

Le navire a été coulé par une torpille pendant la bataille navale.

Passive voice 'was sunk'.

The project foundered as they sank deeper into debt.

Le projet a échoué alors qu'ils s'enfonçaient davantage dans les dettes.

Using 'sink' to describe worsening financial status.

Forests act as vital carbon sinks, mitigating climate change.

Les forêts agissent comme des puits de carbone vitaux, atténuant le changement climatique.

Scientific term 'carbon sink'.

He felt a sinking feeling in his stomach as he realized his error.

Il a ressenti un pincement au cœur en réalisant son erreur.

Idiomatic 'sinking feeling'.

The old traditions are slowly sinking into oblivion.

Les vieilles traditions sombrent lentement dans l'oubli.

Idiom 'sink into oblivion'.

The golfer sank a difficult putt from the edge of the green.

Le golfeur a réussi un putt difficile depuis le bord du green.

Transitive use in sports.

The city is sinking at a rate of several centimeters per year.

La ville s'enfonce à un rythme de plusieurs centimètres par an.

Describing geological subsidence.

She sank into a deep, dreamless sleep after the exhausting journey.

Elle a sombré dans un sommeil profond et sans rêves après le voyage épuisant.

Metaphorical use for entering a state.

The government sank millions into the failing infrastructure project.

Le gouvernement a englouti des millions dans le projet d'infrastructure défaillant.

Transitive use meaning 'to invest' (often wastefully).

The protagonist's moral character began to sink as the novel progressed.

Le caractère moral du protagoniste a commencé à décliner au fur et à mesure que le roman progressait.

Literary use for moral decline.

The sun sank beneath the horizon, leaving a trail of crimson light.

Le soleil a sombré sous l'horizon, laissant une traînée de lumière cramoisie.

Evocative literary description.

They were caught in the sunk cost fallacy, unable to abandon the project.

Ils étaient pris dans le piège des coûts irrécupérables, incapables d'abandonner le projet.

Economic term 'sunk cost fallacy'.

The ship's hull was breached, and it sank within minutes of the impact.

La coque du navire a été percée et il a coulé quelques minutes après l'impact.

Precise technical description.

The once-vibrant neighborhood has sunk into a state of urban decay.

Le quartier autrefois dynamique a sombré dans un état de délabrement urbain.

Describing social/physical decline.

He sank a shaft deep into the earth to reach the mineral deposits.

Il a creusé un puits profondément dans la terre pour atteindre les gisements de minéraux.

Technical use in mining: 'to sink a shaft'.

The weight of the responsibility seemed to sink him into the ground.

Le poids de la responsabilité semblait l'enfoncer dans le sol.

Hyperbolic metaphorical use.

The melody sank into my consciousness, haunting me for days.

La mélodie s'est gravée dans ma conscience, me hantant pendant des jours.

Abstract metaphorical use.

Collocations courantes

kitchen sink

bathroom sink

sink into a chair

heart sank

sink in

sink money into

sink to a new low

carbon sink

heat sink

sink a putt

Phrases Courantes

Everything but the kitchen sink

Sink or swim

A sinking feeling

Sink your teeth into

Sink into oblivion

Sink to someone's level

Sink a ship

Sink into a deep sleep

Sink a shot

Sink differences

Souvent confondu avec

sink vs drown

Drown is for living things dying in water; sink is for moving downward in water.

sink vs basin

Basin is more common for bathrooms in the UK; sink is for kitchens.

sink vs submerge

Submerge often implies an intentional act; sink is often accidental or natural.

Expressions idiomatiques

"Sink like a stone"

To fail completely and very quickly, or to physically sink very fast. It emphasizes the speed and certainty of the failure.

His latest movie sank like a stone at the box office.

informal

"Sink or swim"

Failing or succeeding by one's own efforts without help. It describes a situation of extreme self-reliance.

New recruits are often left to sink or swim in this fast-paced environment.

neutral

"Sink your teeth into something"

To get deeply involved in something exciting or challenging. It implies passion and dedication.

I need a new hobby I can really sink my teeth into.

informal

"A sinking ship"

An organization, business, or project that is failing and cannot be saved. People often 'leave a sinking ship'.

Many employees started looking for new jobs when they realized the company was a sinking ship.

neutral

"Everything but the kitchen sink"

Almost everything imaginable. It highlights an excessive or unnecessary quantity of items.

He brought everything but the kitchen sink for a simple weekend camping trip.

informal

"Sink to a new low"

To reach a level of behavior or quality that is worse than anything previously experienced. It is a strong criticism.

The tabloid's latest story about the actor's family sank to a new low.

neutral

"Sink into a hole"

To get into a difficult situation, often financial, that is hard to escape from.

He sank into a hole of debt after losing his job.

informal

"Sink one's differences"

To stop arguing or disagreeing in order to achieve something together. It is about cooperation.

The committee members decided to sink their differences and approve the budget.

formal

"Sink into the background"

To become less noticeable or to stop being the center of attention. It can be intentional or accidental.

The shy student preferred to sink into the background during class discussions.

neutral

"Sunk cost fallacy"

The mistake of continuing an endeavor because of previously invested resources, even if it's no longer beneficial.

Don't keep fixing that old car; you're just falling for the sunk cost fallacy.

academic/professional

Facile à confondre

sink vs sank

It is the simple past tense of sink.

Use 'sank' for actions that happened in the past without an auxiliary verb.

The boat sank yesterday.

sink vs sunk

It is the past participle of sink.

Use 'sunk' with 'have', 'has', or 'had', or as an adjective.

The boat has sunk.

sink vs sunken

It is an adjective form of sink.

Use 'sunken' to describe something that is already at the bottom or below the surface.

They found a sunken treasure chest.

sink vs sinker

It is a noun derived from the verb.

A 'sinker' is a weight used in fishing to make the line go down.

He attached a lead sinker to his fishing line.

sink vs sinkhole

It is a compound noun.

A 'sinkhole' is a physical hole in the ground caused by collapse.

The car fell into a massive sinkhole.

Structures de phrases

The [noun] is in the sink.

The plate is in the sink.

The [noun] sank in the [liquid].

The boat sank in the lake.

My [emotion/part] sank when [event].

My heart sank when I saw the bill.

It took [time] for [information] to sink in.

It took a day for the news to sink in.

[Subject] sank [amount] into [project].

He sank thousands into the startup.

It was a case of sink or swim.

Starting my own business was a case of sink or swim.

[Noun] acts as a [type] sink.

The ocean acts as a carbon sink.

[Subject] sank into [abstract state].

The empire sank into a state of total chaos.

Famille de mots

Noms

Verbes

Adjectifs

Apparenté

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Very common in both spoken and written English.

Erreurs courantes

The ship sinked in the storm. → The ship sank in the storm.
'Sink' is an irregular verb. The past tense is 'sank', not 'sinked'.
The man sank in the river and died. → The man drowned in the river.
While he may have sunk, the cause of death is 'drowning'. 'Sink' just describes the downward motion.
I have sank a lot of money into this. → I have sunk a lot of money into this.
With the auxiliary verb 'have', you must use the past participle 'sunk', not the simple past 'sank'.
I am washing my hands in the kitchen basin. → I am washing my hands in the kitchen sink.
Even in the UK, 'sink' is the standard term for the kitchen. 'Basin' is for the bathroom.
The news sank into me slowly. → The news sank in slowly.
The phrasal verb for understanding information is 'sink in', not 'sink into me'.

Astuces

Master the Irregular Forms

Memorize 'sink-sank-sunk' just like you do with 'drink-drank-drunk'. This will prevent common errors in your writing and speaking.

Use 'Basin' in the UK

If you are in the United Kingdom, try to use the word 'basin' for the bathroom fixture to sound more natural to native speakers.

Emotional Impact

Use 'my heart sank' to describe a sudden feeling of disappointment. it is a very common and effective idiom in English.

Avoid 'Sinked'

Never use the word 'sinked'. It is not a real word in English. Always use 'sank' for the past tense.

Sports Context

In sports like basketball, saying 'He sank the shot' sounds much more natural and advanced than 'He made the shot'.

Context Clues

If you hear 'sink' in a financial report, it almost always means that prices or values are decreasing.

Kitchen Sink

Use 'everything but the kitchen sink' when you want to emphasize that someone has brought or included too many things.

Heat Sinks

If you are interested in computers, remember that 'heat sink' is two words and refers to the cooling component.

Carbon Sinks

Use the term 'carbon sink' when discussing climate change to show a higher level of scientific vocabulary.

The 'I-A-U' Pattern

Group 'sink' with 'swim' and 'drink' in your mind. They all follow the same vowel change pattern for past tenses.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of a 'Stone' that is 'In' the 'K'reek (Creek). S-I-NK. Stones always sink in water.

Association visuelle

Imagine a heavy anchor falling from a ship and slowly disappearing into the dark blue water of the ocean.

Word Web

Water Kitchen Ship Heavy Down Wash Drain Basin

Défi

Try to use 'sink' as a noun, a verb in the past tense, and in an idiom all in one short paragraph about a bad day.

Origine du mot

The word 'sink' originates from the Old English word 'sincan', which meant to become submerged or to go down. It has cognates in many other Germanic languages, such as the Old Norse 'sökkva' and the German 'sinken'. The transition from a purely physical verb to a noun describing a basin occurred much later, around the 15th century.

Sens originel : To go down, to submerge, or to fall.

Germanic

Contexte culturel

Be careful when using 'sink' to describe people's appearances (e.g., 'sunken eyes'), as it can sound impolite or imply illness.

In the United States, 'sink' is used for both kitchen and bathroom. In the United Kingdom, 'basin' is preferred for the bathroom.

The sinking of the Titanic (1912) The movie 'Everything Everywhere All at Once' (metaphorical 'kitchen sink' approach) The idiom 'sink or swim' in business literature

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

In the Kitchen

clogged sink
wash dishes in the sink
sink drain
stainless steel sink

At Sea

ship is sinking
sink to the bottom
unsinkable
sank without a trace

Emotions

heart sank
sinking feeling
sink into despair
let it sink in

Finance

sinking prices
sink money into
sunk costs
market is sinking

Sports

sink a putt
sink a basket
sink a shot
sink the winning goal

Amorces de conversation

"Have you ever had a sinking feeling that you forgot something important?"

"Do you prefer a large single kitchen sink or a double sink?"

"What's the most money you've ever seen someone sink into a bad idea?"

"How long does it usually take for big news to really sink in for you?"

"Have you ever seen a ship or a boat sink in a movie or real life?"

Sujets d'écriture

Describe a time when your heart sank. What happened and how did you recover?

If you were designing your dream kitchen, what kind of sink would you choose and why?

Write about a project you 'sank your teeth into'. What made it so engaging?

Reflect on the 'sink or swim' moments in your life. Which ones shaped you the most?

Think about a piece of advice that took a long time to 'sink in'. Why was it hard to understand at first?

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Use 'sank' for the simple past tense (e.g., 'The ship sank'). Use 'sunk' for the past participle (e.g., 'The ship has sunk'). In informal speech, some people use 'sunk' for both, but 'sank' is the correct formal past tense.

In American English, they are mostly interchangeable. In British English, a 'sink' is usually in the kitchen for dishes, while a 'basin' is in the bathroom for washing your face and hands.

Yes. Sinking just means moving downward in the water. If the person can hold their breath or has oxygen, they can sink to the bottom and still be alive. Drowning specifically means dying from inhaling water.

It is a phrasal verb meaning that information is finally being understood or the reality of a situation is being realized. For example, 'The news of her winning the lottery finally sank in.'

A carbon sink is something in nature, like a forest or the ocean, that absorbs more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than it releases, helping to reduce global warming.

It means including almost everything you can think of, even things that aren't necessary. It's often used when someone packs too much for a trip.

It is an irregular verb because it does not end in '-ed' in the past tense. The forms are sink, sank, and sunk.

A heat sink is a metal component in electronics, like computers, that pulls heat away from hot parts (like the CPU) to keep them cool and prevent damage.

Yes, it is very common in business news to say that prices, stocks, or the value of money is 'sinking' when it is going down quickly.

It refers to a situation where you must succeed by your own efforts or you will fail completely. There is no middle ground or outside help.