wince

Everyday

1. To wince is to make a quick face or small movement when you feel pain or see or hear something unpleasant. tree →
2. A wince is that quick look of pain. tree →

In the lessons

In stories it shows pain or embarrassment without words: «he winced as the nurse cleaned the cut» tells the reader it stung. Writing lessons use «wince» as a strong verb to show feelings. Phrases: «wince in pain», «make someone wince», «with a wince».

Examples

• He winced when the nurse gave him the injection. tree →
• I winced as I pulled off the plaster. tree →
• She winced at the loud screech of the chalk. tree →
• The cold water made me wince. tree →
• Dad winced when he saw the price. tree →
• She smiled through a wince when she stood up on her sore ankle. tree →

Note

Regular verb: winced, wincing (drop the e). Similar: «flinch» (jerk away), «grimace» (an ugly face). A wince is quick and small.