What does “Grill” mean?
The slang phrase "Grill" means to "angrily stare at someone". When someone "grills" someone else, they are giving them an intense and piercing gaze that conveys their anger, disapproval, or dissatisfaction. It is a nonverbal way to communicate strong negative emotions towards someone without speaking a word.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
He grilled me with his eyes when I accidentally bumped into him.
Example
She was grilling her opponent during the debate.
Example
The teacher grilled the students for not completing their homework.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Expressing anger or disapproval
He grilled me with his eyes when I accidentally bumped into him.
She was grilling her opponent during the debate.
- 2Showing intense focus or scrutiny
The teacher grilled the students for not completing their homework.
He grilled the suspect during the interrogation.
- 3Conveying a challenging or confrontational attitude
The boss grilled the employee about their performance.
She grilled her friend about the rumors she heard.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "grill" originated in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and has become popular in various regions, including New York, US. It gained popularity through hip-hop culture and urban communities.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
While "grill" is often used in a sentence, it can also be used on its own to convey the act of angrily staring at someone. For example, if someone asks you why you're staring at them, you can simply respond with "grill" to indicate your intention.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "grill" is not offensive in itself. It is a slang term used to describe angrily staring at someone.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "grill" is commonly used by younger generations, especially millennials and Gen Z. People familiar with urban slang and hip-hop culture are more likely to use and understand it.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
While the phrase "grill" originated in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and is associated with New York, US, it has gained popularity and usage beyond those boundaries. It is now used in various English-speaking regions, especially in urban communities influenced by hip-hop culture.
