Visual Dictionary: Common Verbs in English

Grate – to cut (food) into very small pieces by rubbing it against a special tool (called a grater).

Grill – to cook (food) on a metal frame over fire.

Layer – to form or arrange parts or pieces of something on top of each other : to form or arrange (something) in layers.

Level – to make (something) flat or level.

Melt – to change or to cause (something) to change from a solid to a liquid usually because of heat. Like cheese.

Pinch – the amount of something that can be held between your finger and thumb.

Pour – to cause (something) to flow in a steady stream from or into a container or place.

Scramble – to prepare (eggs) by mixing the white and yellow parts together and then stirring the mixture in a hot pan.

Serve – to give food or drink to (someone).

Simmer – to cook (something) so that it is almost boiling for a certain period of time.

Slice – a thin piece of food that is cut from something larger.

Spread – to put a layer of (something) on top of something else.

Stir – to mix (something) by making circular movements in it with a spoon or similar object.

Taste – to sense the flavor of (something that you are eating or drinking).

Add – to put (something) with another thing or group of things.

Bake – to make (food, such as bread and cake) by preparing a dough, batter, etc., and cooking it in an oven using dry heat.

Blend – to mix (things) thoroughly and usually with good results.

Boil – to cook (something) in water that is boiling.

Bread – to cover (food) with bread crumbs before cooking it.

Broil – to cook (food) directly over or under extremely high heat.

Chop – to cut (something) into pieces by hitting it with the sharp edge of an ax, knife, etc.

Cut – to use a sharp tool (such as a knife) to open or divide (something, such as paper or wood).

Dip – to put (something) into a liquid and pull it out again quickly.

Fry – to cook (food) in fat or oil.

Tap - move your feet to the beat of music

Kick - use your feet to make something move

Limp - walk with difficulty because your leg or foot is injured

Paddle - walk in the sea with bare feet (but still wearing trousers, etc)

Wave - when you move your hand (or hands) in the air to attract attention or to say goodbye

Stroke - use long movements of your hand down someone's skin (or an animal's fur)

Tickle - lightly touch someone to make them laugh (because their skin is sensitive)

Pat - touch someone or something lightly with your open hand

Slap - use your open hand to hit someone or something

Punch - use your closed hand (fist) to hit someone or something

Rip - tear something using both hands

Scratch - use your nails on something

Grab - take something quickly with your hand

Flick - move something small away from you using your thumb and middle finger

Action verbs, also called dynamic verbs, express an action whether it be physical or mental