stab

Everyday

1. To stab means to push a knife or other sharp, pointed thing into someone or something. tree →
2. To stab can mean to push or poke something hard with a pointed object or finger. tree →
3. A stab is a sudden sharp pain or feeling («a stab of pain», «a stab of jealousy»). tree →
4. To have a stab at something means to try it («Have a stab at the answer»). tree →
5. A stab can also be a small prick or wound made by something sharp. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life and safety stabbing is a serious crime; carrying knives is against the law and dangerous. In cooking you stab potatoes with a fork. In stories a «stab in the back» means a betrayal by a friend. In class «have a stab at it» means try your best guess. Phrases: «have a stab at», «stab in the back», «a stab of pain», «stab wound».

Examples

• Stab the potatoes with a fork before baking them. tree →
• Have a stab at the hard question. tree →
• I felt a stab of pain in my side while running. tree →
• Carrying a knife to stab someone is a crime. tree →
• He stabbed the button angrily with his finger. tree →
• She felt a stab of jealousy when her friend won. tree →
• Telling my secret was a stab in the back. tree →
• Never stab at things with scissors. tree →

Note

Double b before -ed and -ing: «stabbed», «stabbing». Safety: if you see someone with a knife, get away and tell an adult or call 999/911/000/112. «Have a stab» is casual and friendly.