biting
- 01 B1 Intermediate
adj.describing wind or cold that feels sharp and painful on your skin.
adj.causing a sharp, stinging, or piercing physical sensation, typically in reference to wind or low temperatures.
Simple“A biting wind blew across the lake, making our faces feel numb.”
In context“The biting cold of the Arctic winter forced the expedition to remain in their shelters for three consecutive days.”
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.describing words that are clever but also mean or hurtful.
adj.sharply critical, sarcastic, or incisive in a way that is intended to hurt or diminish.
Simple“She regretted her biting comments after she saw how upset her friend was.”
In context“The critic's biting review of the play was published on the front page, effectively ending the production's run after only one week.”
- 03 C1 Advanced
n.a small piece of food or a snack.
n.a small portion of food or a light snack; specifically used in certain regional dialects of English.
Simple“We served some small bitings and drinks before the main dinner started.”
In context“The host provided a variety of traditional bitings for the guests to enjoy while they waited for the wedding ceremony to commence.”
Teacher's tipThis sense is primarily found in East African English, particularly in Kenya; learners should use 'snacks' or 'appetizers' in most other contexts.