When we use the word "spit" as a verb, it means to push something out of your mouth with force, especially saliva. For example, you might spit out food you don't like.
As a noun, "spit" refers to the liquid that is in your mouth. This liquid helps you to eat and digest food. So, if you say someone has "spit" on their chin, it means they have some saliva there.
§ Grammar Notes
'Spit' can function as both a verb and a noun. Understanding its different forms and how it interacts with other words is key to using it correctly.
- Verb Forms
- The verb 'to spit' is irregular. Its past simple form is 'spat' (or sometimes 'spit' in American English), and its past participle is also 'spat' (or 'spit').
Here’s a breakdown:
- Present Simple: spit (I spit, you spit, he/she/it spits, we spit, they spit)
- Present Participle: spitting
- Past Simple: spat (or spit)
- Past Participle: spat (or spit)
She spits out the cherry pit.
He spat his gum into the bin.
The angry dog was spitting at the mailman.
§ Common Phrases and Collocations
'Spit' appears in several common phrases and collocations, often with idiomatic meanings.
- To spit something out: To eject something from your mouth.
The baby immediately spit out the medicine.
- To spit at someone/something: To direct saliva at someone or something, often as a sign of contempt or aggression.
The cat hissed and spat at the dog.
- To spit in someone's face: A very strong and insulting gesture.
He was so angry he wanted to spit in his boss's face.
- To spit fire: To speak angrily or passionately.
The politician was spitting fire during the debate.
- Spitting image (of someone): To look exactly like someone else. This is a common idiom and usually refers to a strong family resemblance.
The little boy is the spitting image of his father.
- To spit or to swallow: A vulgar expression often used in sexual contexts, asking whether one ejects or ingests bodily fluids. This phrase should be used with extreme caution due to its explicit nature.
§ 'Spit' as a Noun
When used as a noun, 'spit' typically refers to saliva.
- Meaning
- The watery fluid produced in the mouth.
There was a small amount of spit on the sidewalk.
It can also refer to:
- A rod on which food is roasted: This is a less common usage, but you might encounter it in older texts or culinary contexts.
The chef turned the lamb on the spit.
- A small, narrow point of land extending into the water: This is a geographical term.
We walked along the sandy spit at low tide.
How Formal Is It?
"Patients were advised to expectorate into a designated receptacle for laboratory analysis."
"He had a habit of spitting chewing gum onto the pavement."
"Don't just hock on the floor, use a tissue!"
"The baby gurgled and a little gob of milk came out."
"He just spawled all over the place when he laughed."
难度评级
The definition is straightforward and uses common vocabulary, making it easy to read.
The word is short and common, with no complex spelling rules, making it easy to write accurately.
The word has a simple, common pronunciation with no unusual sounds or stress patterns, making it easy to speak.
The pronunciation is clear and distinct, without any homophones that would cause confusion in listening comprehension.
接下来学什么
前置知识
接下来学习
高级
需要掌握的语法
Subject-verb agreement: The verb 'spit' changes form depending on the subject. For singular subjects (he, she, it), it is 'spits' in the present tense. For plural subjects (they, we, you) and 'I', it is 'spit'.
He spits the seeds out. They spit the seeds out.
Past tense and past participle: The past tense and past participle of 'spit' can be either 'spat' or 'spit'. 'Spat' is more common in British English, while 'spit' is more common in American English.
She spat out the bad taste. He had spit out the bad taste.
Transitive and Intransitive use: 'Spit' can be used transitively (with a direct object) or intransitively (without a direct object).
Transitive: He spit the cherry pit. Intransitive: He spit on the sidewalk.
Phrasal verbs: 'Spit' can be part of several phrasal verbs, such as 'spit out' (to eject from the mouth) or 'spit up' (to vomit).
The baby spit up its milk. She spit out her gum.
Noun usage: As a noun, 'spit' can be uncountable (referring to saliva in general) or countable (referring to a single act of spitting or a small amount of saliva).
Uncountable: There was spit on the floor. Countable: He left a spit on the window.
按水平分级的例句
The sheer audacity of the politician's speech made many in the audience want to spit in disgust, though they maintained their composure.
Despite feeling disgusted by the politician's bold speech, the audience members controlled their impulse to express it outwardly.
Here, 'spit' is used as an infinitive verb following 'want to', expressing an strong desire or impulse.
She managed to spit out a few defiant words between gasps, her voice hoarse from the effort, before collapsing.
With great difficulty, she uttered a few challenging words, her voice rough, before falling down.
The phrasal verb 'spit out' implies speaking words with difficulty or forcefully, often due to anger or pain.
The old cannon, long since decommissioned, still had a menacing air, as if it could spit fire and brimstone at any moment.
Even though it was no longer in use, the old cannon looked threatening, as if it could suddenly shoot out fire and sulfur.
'Spit' is used metaphorically here, attributing a human-like action (ejecting with force) to an inanimate object.
After the intensely spicy meal, he found himself constantly needing to spit to alleviate the burning sensation in his mouth.
Following the very spicy food, he repeatedly felt the need to eject saliva to lessen the burning feeling in his mouth.
The verb 'spit' is used intransitively, describing the act of ejecting saliva without a direct object.
The actor delivered his lines with such venom, each word seemed to spit venom directly at the antagonist, chilling the audience.
The actor spoke his lines with such bitterness that every word seemed to directly convey hostility towards the villain, making the audience feel uneasy.
Metaphorical use of 'spit venom' to describe speaking with intense malice or hostility.
It was a cold, blustery day, the kind where the wind seemed to spit icy rain directly into your face, making walking a challenge.
It was a very windy and cold day, where the wind seemed to forcefully throw cold rain directly at you, making it difficult to walk.
Personification of 'wind' using 'spit' to describe the forceful and unpleasant ejection of rain.
He had a habit of letting out a small, almost imperceptible spit of frustration whenever his computer crashed unexpectedly.
He often made a small, barely noticeable sound of annoyance, almost like spitting, whenever his computer stopped working suddenly.
Here, 'spit' is used as a noun, referring to the act of spitting or a small amount of saliva, often implying a quick, involuntary ejection.
The chef's precise instructions dictated that the roast should spit and sizzle enticingly as it cooked, ensuring a perfect crust.
The chef's exact directions stated that the roast should make tempting spitting and sizzling sounds while cooking, guaranteeing a perfectly crispy exterior.
'Spit' is used here to describe the sound and action of fat or juices forcefully ejecting from cooking meat due to heat.
习语与表达
"spitting image"
To look exactly like someone else.
He's the spitting image of his father.
informal"to spit it out"
To tell someone to say what they want to say quickly, especially if they are hesitating.
Come on, spit it out! What's wrong?
informal"to spit feathers"
To be extremely angry.
After missing the train, I was spitting feathers.
informal"to spit in the wind"
To do something pointless or futile; to attempt something that has no chance of success.
Trying to convince him to change his mind is like spitting in the wind.
neutral"spit and polish"
A thorough cleaning and tidying; meticulous attention to detail in appearance.
The soldiers were ordered to give their barracks a good spit and polish.
neutral"to spit tacks"
To be extremely angry or furious.
When she found out her car had been scratched, she was spitting tacks.
informal"to spit fire"
To speak with great anger or passion.
The politician was spitting fire during his speech about injustice.
neutral"to spit blood"
To be extremely angry or to exert oneself to the utmost.
He was spitting blood after losing the championship match.
informal"to spit on someone's grave"
To show extreme disrespect to the memory of a deceased person.
His actions were so vile, it was like he was spitting on his ancestors' graves.
informal"to spit out (words)"
To say words quickly and angrily.
She spat out a stream of insults before storming off.
neutral如何使用
Usage Notes:
Verb:
- "Spit" is an irregular verb. The past simple and past participle forms are both "spat" (more common in British English) or "spit" (more common in American English, especially as a past participle).
- It can be used to describe the act of expelling saliva, food, or other substances from the mouth.
- It can also be used metaphorically, for example, "He spit out insults."
Noun:
- As a noun, "spit" refers to saliva. This usage is generally informal.
- It can also refer to an act of spitting, e.g., "He gave a little spit on the ground."
- Another noun usage, often in cooking, refers to a long rod on which meat is skewered and roasted, e.g., "roast chicken on a spit." This is a separate meaning and not related to the bodily fluid.
Common Mistakes:
- Incorrect Past Tense/Participle: A common mistake is using "spitted" as the past tense or past participle. The correct forms are "spat" or "spit."
- Incorrect: He spitted out the bad taste.
- Correct: He spat out the bad taste. (British English)
- Correct: He spit out the bad taste. (American English)
- Confusing with "Spit" (roasting rod): While the word is the same, the context usually makes the meaning clear. However, sometimes learners might mistakenly link the two meanings. Remember that the verb and the noun referring to saliva are distinct from the noun referring to a roasting device.
- Overuse of the noun "spit" for saliva: While correct, "saliva" is generally a more formal and common term for the fluid. "Spit" as a noun for saliva is more informal and can sometimes sound a bit crude depending on the context.
小贴士
Practice pronunciation with different forms
Practice saying "spit" aloud, along with its past tense "spat" and present participle "spitting". Pay attention to the 'i' sound in each.
Visualize the action
When you hear or read "spit," try to mentally picture someone spitting. This visual association can help with recall.
Create example sentences
Write a few sentences using both the verb and noun forms. For example: "He had to spit out the bitter medicine." or "There was a small spit of rain." This contextual practice is very effective.
Be aware of social context
While 'spit' is a common word, the act of spitting is generally considered impolite in many cultures. Understand when it's appropriate to use the word.
Use a dictionary for synonyms/antonyms
Explore words related to 'spit', such as 'expectorate' (more formal) or 'drool'. Knowing these can broaden your vocabulary.
Listen for it in media
Watch movies, TV shows, or listen to podcasts in English. When you hear "spit," try to understand its usage in context.
Explore idioms with 'spit'
There are idioms like "spitting image" (meaning someone looks very much like another) or "spit it out!" (meaning to say what you want to say quickly). Learning these can enhance your fluency.
Review regularly
Don't just learn it once. Revisit the word and its definitions periodically to reinforce your memory.
Use flashcards
Create a flashcard with "spit" on one side and its definition and example sentences on the other. This is a classic and effective method.
Understand cultural nuances
In some cultures, spitting might have specific symbolic meanings or be more accepted in certain situations than in others. Be mindful of these differences when interpreting its use.
记住它
记忆技巧
Imagine a knight, Sir Pit, who is known for his terrible spitting habit. Every time you think of 'spit', remember Sir Pit and his spitting. This association can help you recall the meaning of the word.
视觉联想
Picture a dragon spitting fire. While 'spit' refers to saliva, associating it with the forceful expulsion of fire by a dragon can create a strong and memorable visual. Or, you could visualize a fountain, where water is 'spit' out forcefully.
Word Web
挑战
Try to use 'spit' in three different sentences. For example: 1. The baby learned to spit out her food when she didn't like it. 2. He tried not to spit when he was talking excitedly. 3. The camel was known to spit at anyone who annoyed it.
在生活中练习
真实语境
When you're really thirsty, your mouth might feel dry and it's hard to spit.
- hard to spit
- mouth feels dry
- really thirsty
Some athletes spit on the ground during a game, which is often considered impolite.
- spit on the ground
- considered impolite
- during a game
If you get something bad in your mouth, your natural reaction is to spit it out.
- spit it out
- natural reaction
- something bad in your mouth
When a baby is learning to eat solid food, they sometimes spit out what they don't like.
- spit out what they don't like
- learning to eat solid food
- a baby
He had a habit of spitting when he talked, which made people uncomfortable.
- spitting when he talked
- made people uncomfortable
- had a habit of
对话开场白
"Have you ever accidentally spit while talking or laughing?"
"In what situations do you think it's acceptable to spit?"
"What's the most surprising thing you've ever seen someone spit out?"
"Do you think it's okay for athletes to spit during a game? Why or why not?"
"How do you react if someone spits near you?"
日记主题
Describe a time when you had to spit something out quickly. What was it, and why did you need to spit it out?
Reflect on cultural norms around spitting. How do they differ in various places or situations you've experienced or heard about?
Write about a time you witnessed someone spitting. How did it make you feel, and how did you react?
Imagine you're in a situation where spitting is completely normal and accepted. What would that look like, and how would it change your behavior?
Consider the phrase 'spit fire' (meaning to speak angrily or passionately). How does the literal meaning of 'spit' contribute to this figurative expression?
常见问题
10 个问题Yes, 'spit' can be used to describe forcibly ejecting other substances from the mouth, not just saliva. For example, you might 'spit out' a seed from fruit.
While the act of spitting can be considered rude in many cultures, the word 'spit' itself isn't inherently rude. It's a descriptive verb. However, using it in certain contexts could be seen as impolite.
As a verb, 'spit' means to forcibly eject saliva or other substances from the mouth. As a noun, 'spit' refers to the saliva itself, the watery fluid produced in the mouth.
Yes, there are a few! For example, 'spitting image' means to look exactly like someone else, and 'to spit it out' means to say what you're thinking quickly.
The past tense of 'spit' is 'spat' or 'spit'. The past participle is also 'spat' or 'spit'. Both forms are commonly used.
Yes, 'spittle' is another word for saliva, often used to refer to saliva that has been ejected from the mouth. It's essentially the same as 'spit' when used as a noun.
Yes, many animals can 'spit'. For instance, llamas are known to spit as a defense mechanism, and some snakes can spit venom.
While 'spit' is generally acceptable, in very formal contexts you might hear 'expectorate' used to refer to spitting, especially in a medical context.
Spit involves a forceful ejection from the mouth, often intentionally. Drool is when saliva flows passively from the mouth, usually unintentionally, often when sleeping or for babies.
Yes, 'spit' can be used metaphorically. For example, a volcano might 'spit' ash and lava, or someone might 'spit fire' to mean they are speaking angrily.
自我测试 30 个问题
The baby will ___ out his food if he doesn't like it.
To 'spit' means to push something out of your mouth. The baby is pushing food out.
Please do not ___ on the floor. It is not clean.
To 'spit' on the floor means to put saliva on it, which is not polite or clean.
He has a lot of ___ in his mouth when he talks fast.
'Spit' as a noun refers to the liquid in your mouth, also called saliva.
The boy wanted to ___ the seeds from the cherry.
To 'spit' the seeds means to push them out of your mouth.
After brushing, you should ___ out the toothpaste.
You 'spit' out toothpaste after brushing to remove it from your mouth.
The camel can ___ water at its enemies.
Camels are known to 'spit' to defend themselves.
Listen for what the baby might do with disliked food.
Listen for where someone is asked not to spit.
Listen for what was on his chin after eating.
Read this aloud:
Don't spit.
Focus: spit
你说的：
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Read this aloud:
A little spit came out.
Focus: little spit
你说的：
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
He will spit the seeds.
Focus: spit the seeds
你说的：
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
This sentence is a simple negative statement about an action.
This is a polite request asking someone not to spit out their gum.
This sentence describes a common action of a baby.
Imagine you are a detective investigating a crime scene. You find a small, damp stain on the pavement. Describe what you observe and what conclusions you might draw if you suspect the stain is 'spit'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Upon close inspection of the crime scene, a small, translucent stain was discovered on the concrete pavement. The stain appeared somewhat viscous and irregularly shaped, consistent with a globule of saliva. Given its location and the nature of the incident, it is plausible that this is human spit, potentially left by a suspect or victim. This could serve as crucial evidence for DNA analysis, which could help identify individuals present at the scene.
Write a short paragraph about a situation where someone might 'spit' as a gesture of defiance or anger. Explain the cultural implications or interpretations of such an act.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
In many cultures, spitting is considered a deeply offensive and disrespectful act, often used to express extreme anger, contempt, or defiance. For instance, in a heated argument, one person might spit at another to demonstrate their utter disdain and rejection of the other's words or presence. This action transcends mere aggression; it's a symbolic gesture meant to humiliate and degrade, signifying a complete breakdown of respect and an escalation of conflict.
Describe a common situation where someone might involuntarily 'spit' while talking or laughing, and explain why this happens.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
It's quite common for people to inadvertently spit a little while talking animatedly or laughing heartily. This often occurs because the rapid airflow and movements of the tongue and mouth during speech or laughter can dislodge small droplets of saliva, propelling them outwards. When we speak with enthusiasm, the force of our breath combined with unswallowed saliva can lead to these tiny emissions, often much to the embarrassment of the speaker.
What effect did the adversary's act of spitting have on the negotiation?
Read this passage:
During a tense negotiation, the CEO remained stoic, but his adversary, a notoriously temperamental businessman, suddenly leaned forward and spat a stream of insults. This unexpected act completely derailed the discussion, leaving everyone in the room stunned by the sheer audacity and aggression displayed.
What effect did the adversary's act of spitting have on the negotiation?
The passage states that the act of spitting 'completely derailed the discussion,' which means it stopped or interrupted it.
The passage states that the act of spitting 'completely derailed the discussion,' which means it stopped or interrupted it.
Why did the prospector often 'spit'?
Read this passage:
The old prospector, weary from days in the desert, often had to spit out the gritty sand that found its way into his mouth. It was a constant battle against the elements, and this simple act was a small but necessary part of his daily survival.
Why did the prospector often 'spit'?
The passage explicitly states he 'spat out the gritty sand that found its way into his mouth,' indicating he was removing sand.
The passage explicitly states he 'spat out the gritty sand that found its way into his mouth,' indicating he was removing sand.
According to the passage, what is the main reason for discouraging public spitting?
Read this passage:
Medical guidelines strongly advise against public spitting due to its potential to spread germs and infectious diseases. While once a common habit in some places, awareness campaigns have significantly reduced its prevalence, promoting better hygiene and public health.
According to the passage, what is the main reason for discouraging public spitting?
The passage clearly states 'Medical guidelines strongly advise against public spitting due to its potential to spread germs and infectious diseases.'
The passage clearly states 'Medical guidelines strongly advise against public spitting due to its potential to spread germs and infectious diseases.'
The seasoned detective tried to pry information from the reticent witness, but he remained tight-lipped, refusing to ___ out a single detail.
'Spit out' in this context means to say something quickly and unthinkingly, often due to pressure or frustration. The other options don't convey the same nuance of a forced or reluctant utterance.
Despite the harsh conditions, the defiant prisoner refused to ___ the captors' propaganda, maintaining his own convictions.
To 'swallow' in this context means to accept something easily, often without question. The phrase 'swallow the propaganda' implies believing it without resistance. 'Spit' would imply rejection, but 'swallow' is the antonym and fits the negative refusal to accept.
The irate customer began to ___ venomous words at the helpless cashier, making everyone uncomfortable with the outburst.
To 'spit venomous words' is an idiom meaning to speak with extreme anger and malice. 'Hurl' can also be used for words, but 'spit' specifically conveys the malicious and uncontrolled nature of the speech.
The old engine began to ___ and sputter, a clear indication that it was on its last legs and desperately needed repairs.
When an engine 'spits and sputters', it means it's running irregularly and making popping noises, often due to a malfunction. It's a common phrasal verb describing engine trouble.
After the intense argument, the two colleagues refused to speak to each other, maintaining a frosty silence that you could almost ___ on.
'You could cut the tension with a knife' or 'you could cut the silence' are common idioms used to describe an extremely tense or palpable atmosphere. While 'spit' isn't used this way, 'cut' perfectly conveys the intensity of the silence.
The renowned chef, known for his eccentric culinary experiments, claimed he could make a gourmet meal out of 'chicken ___', meaning he could create something exquisite from the most basic or unpromising ingredients.
'Chicken spit' is a colloquial and somewhat vulgar way to refer to something utterly worthless or unappealing. The idiom 'make a silk purse out of a sow's ear' or, in this humorous context, 'a gourmet meal out of chicken spit' means to create something good from bad material.
/ 30 correct
Perfect score!
Practice pronunciation with different forms
Practice saying "spit" aloud, along with its past tense "spat" and present participle "spitting". Pay attention to the 'i' sound in each.
Visualize the action
When you hear or read "spit," try to mentally picture someone spitting. This visual association can help with recall.
Create example sentences
Write a few sentences using both the verb and noun forms. For example: "He had to spit out the bitter medicine." or "There was a small spit of rain." This contextual practice is very effective.
Be aware of social context
While 'spit' is a common word, the act of spitting is generally considered impolite in many cultures. Understand when it's appropriate to use the word.
