Definition of Bite
Quick Meaning of Bite
To use your teeth to cut into something.
Detailed Definition of Bite
To cut or tear something with the teeth.
How to Pronounce Bite
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: The vowel sound /aɪ/ is a diphthong (two sounds: ah-ee). The final 't' is unvoiced /t/; do not add 'd'.
Watch out: Some learners pronounce it as /bɪt/ (short i) instead of /baɪt/ (long diphthong); others confuse past tense 'bit' pronunciation with present.
Origin and Etymology of Bite
From Old English bītan, related to German beißen; cognate with bit (past tense).
How to Use Bite in a Sentence
Each example shows “bite” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The dog bit the mailman's leg when he approached the gate.”
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“She bites her nails when she is nervous or worried.”
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“The mosquito bit me several times during the camping trip.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Bite
Common Synonyms for Bite
Smart Synonyms for Bite — When to Use Each
- nip
- when describing quick or pinching bites with teeth
- gnaw
- when indicating repeated biting and tearing of hard
Common Collocations with Bite
These phrases pair with “bite” in everyday English:
- bite off
- bite down
- dog bite
- mosquito bite
- bite the dust
Common Mistakes When Using Bite
Even fluent speakers slip up with “bite”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The snake bited the hunter when he stepped into the forest.
- ✓ Correct: The snake bit the hunter when he stepped into the forest.
- Why: Irregular verb: past tense is 'bit' not 'bited'; present tense 'bites' adds -es.
- ✗ Wrong: She has bit her lip during the presentation.
- ✓ Correct: She has bitten her lip during the presentation.
- Why: Present perfect requires past participle 'bitten' (not 'bit') after 'have'.
Other Forms of Bite
Frequently Asked Questions About Bite
What is the meaning of "Bite"?
To use your teeth to cut into something.
How do you pronounce "Bite"?
The IPA is /baɪt/. The vowel sound /aɪ/ is a diphthong (two sounds: ah-ee). The final 't' is unvoiced /t/; do not add 'd'.
What part of speech is "Bite"?
"Bite" is a verb at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Bite"?
Common synonyms include nip, chew, snap.
How do you use "Bite" in a sentence?
For example: "The dog bit the mailman's leg when he approached the gate."