Word Adjective
grated
adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈɡɹeɪtɪd/ UK /ɡɹˈeɪtɪd/ grat·ed
Definition
adj.cut into many small, thin pieces using a metal tool with sharp holes. You usually see this with cheese or vegetables like carrots.
adj.reduced to small shreds or fragments by being rubbed against a rough or sharp-edged surface. Often used as a participial adjective in culinary contexts.
Examples
“She sprinkled some grated cheese over the pasta.”
“The recipe calls for two cups of grated carrots and a teaspoon of fresh ginger.”
“The chef finished the dish with a fine dusting of grated nutmeg, which added a subtle warmth to the creamy sauce.”
Usage
Typically used attributively before a noun or after a linking verb like 'is' or 'looks'.
Pitfall
I bought a grate cheeseI bought some grated cheese
The past participle form 'grated' must be used when the word functions as an adjective describing the state of the food.
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated