remove the lid

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "remove the lid" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when giving instructions related to opening a container or object that has a lid. Example: "To access the contents of the jar, first, remove the lid carefully."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Remove the lid, add the cream and mustard.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Remove the lid, simmer until thick, then sweeten to taste.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Release the pressure, then carefully remove the lid.

The Washington Post

(For entertaining, you can just remove the lid).

The New York Times - Food

Remove the lid and turn off the heat.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Remove the lid and simmer for another 10 minutes.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Remove the lid, and stir vigorously from time to time.

The New York Times

Remove the lid and invert a serving plate over the pan.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Remove the lid: the garlic should be soft and light golden-brown.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Remove the lid, season with salt and stir briefly to allow the liquid to reduce.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Remove the lid and cook until the liquid has reduced to a thick sauce.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone to "remove the lid" from a hot container, advise caution to avoid steam burns. Specify how to safely grip and handle the lid to prevent accidents.

Common error

Avoid using "remove the lid" without considering the context. For example, if the lid is sealed or requires a specific tool, it's better to provide detailed instructions: "Use a bottle opener to remove the lid" instead of just saying "remove the lid".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "remove the lid" functions as an imperative instruction, directly telling someone to perform the action of taking a lid off a container. According to Ludwig, this is a correct and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

31%

News & Media

69%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "remove the lid" is a common and straightforward instruction with the primary purpose of directing someone to open a container by taking off its lid. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide usability. The phrase is commonly found in News & Media and Wiki sources, which frequently contain recipes, how-to guides, and other instructional content. While the phrase is generally neutral in tone, providing additional context, like a warning about hot steam, is often a good practice for clarity and safety. Alternative phrases, such as "take the lid off" or "open the container", can add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take the lid off

Uses a different verb but conveys the same action of opening something by removing its lid.

open the container

Broader term that includes removing the lid as a way to access the contents inside.

uncover the pot

Specific to pots or cooking vessels, but conveys the same idea of revealing what's inside.

lift the top

Suggests raising the covering of something, similar to removing a lid.

detach the cover

Emphasizes the act of separating the cover from the object.

unseal the jar

Implies opening a jar, often by removing a lid or seal.

extract the top

Focuses on taking the top part away from the main body.

free the opening

Highlights making the opening accessible by removing an obstruction like a lid.

disengage the closure

More formal term referring to the act of releasing a fastening mechanism.

clear the aperture

Emphasizes clearing an opening by removing whatever is covering it.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "remove the lid" in a recipe?

Depending on the context, you could say "take the lid off", "uncover the pot", or "open the container" for variety.

What's the difference between "remove the lid" and "open the container"?

"Remove the lid" specifically refers to taking off the covering, while "open the container" is a broader instruction that might involve other actions besides removing the lid, such as unlocking or unsealing.

Is it always necessary to say "carefully remove the lid"?

Not always, but it's a good practice when dealing with hot contents or pressurized containers. Adding "carefully" ensures the person is aware of potential hazards and takes necessary precautions.

What are some safety tips when I "remove the lid" from something?

Always tilt the lid away from your face to avoid steam burns. Use oven mitts or pot holders if the container is hot. If the container is pressurized, release the pressure first before attempting to "remove the lid".