spoon

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "spoon" is correct and usable in written English, depending on the context.
It can be used when referring to the utensil used for eating or serving food, or in idiomatic expressions. Example: "She stirred the soup with a wooden spoon."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To serve, place spoonfuls or balls of ice cream into bowls then spoon over the chilled rhubarb syrup.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Stir gently with a wooden spoon, letting the mixture heat through, but stay just short of coming to a boil.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As the mixture thickens, stir almost continuously until it is thick enough to coat the back of the spoon.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Sift the flour mixture into the egg mixture and stir with a wooden spoon, but don't overmix.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

When the season kicked off it looked as if this match could decide the fate of the wooden spoon and this is exactly how things have turned out.

The Guardian - Sport

Remove from the heat then stir in 1 tbsp honey, then the coconut, and mix well. 2 Using the back of a spoon, press the coconut mix firmly into the base and sides of a 20cm tart tin.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The syrup is ready if coats the back of a spoon.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Scoop out with a slotted spoon, add another quarter of the butter and fry the leeks with a pinch of salt until soft.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Add a teaspoon of honey and, once that's melted, tilt the pan slightly and repeatedly spoon the hot mixture over the egg until the top of the yolk is just opaque.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Add the ice cubes and whiz until finely chopped, then spoon in the yoghurt and cardamom and whiz until smooth.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Trocchi himself called shooting up an act of "systematic nihilism" which "threw a purposive spoon into the broth of experience".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "spoon" as a verb, ensure the context clearly indicates the action of using a spoon to serve or transfer something. For romantic contexts, be mindful that 'spooning' has very specific implications.

Common error

Avoid using "spoon" in formal writing when a more precise or technical term is available. Overusing colloquial or idiomatic expressions can reduce the clarity and professionalism of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The word "spoon" functions primarily as a noun, referring to an eating or serving utensil. It also functions as a verb, describing the action of serving or transferring something using a spoon. Ludwig provides examples of both usages.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Lifestyle

35%

Books

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "spoon" is a versatile term, primarily functioning as a noun and verb. As shown by Ludwig, it is widely used in various contexts, from describing a simple eating utensil to intimate relationships. The register is generally neutral, though idiomatic usages lean toward informal. Given its correct grammatical standing and common usage, "spoon" is a valuable and appropriate word for both everyday conversation and written communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

table spoon

Specifies the type of "spoon" as a tableware item.

tea spoon

Specifies the type of "spoon" as a tableware item.

wooden spoon

Specifies the type of "spoon" as a kitchen tool, often used for stirring.

scoop

Focuses on the action of lifting something with a curved implement, similar to a "spoon".

scooped utensil

Highlights the shape of the utensil, a key characteristic of a "spoon".

spoonful

Refers to the quantity held by a "spoon", rather than the utensil itself.

ladle

Implies a larger, deeper utensil for serving liquids, a specific type of "spoon".

serving utensil

A more general term for a "spoon" used in serving food.

nestle together

Used to describe the action of 'spooning' romantically, focusing on closeness and fit.

eating implement

A broader term that includes "spoon" as a tool for eating.

FAQs

How can I use "spoon" in a sentence?

You can use "spoon" as a noun to refer to the utensil or as a verb to describe the action of serving something with a spoon. For example, "She ate her soup with a spoon" or "He spooned the sauce over the pasta".

What are some synonyms for "spoon" as a utensil?

Depending on the context, you could use "scoop", "ladle" (for liquids), or "serving utensil".

Is it appropriate to use "spoon" in formal writing?

Yes, "spoon" is generally acceptable in formal writing when referring to the utensil. However, avoid using it in idiomatic or informal senses in highly formal contexts.

What does it mean to "spoon" with someone?

To "spoon" with someone refers to a cuddling position where two people lie on their sides, facing the same direction, with one person behind the other. It is considered a form of intimate contact.