stab or pierce

[Zbyněk]

English Grammar Tests, Elementary Level

ESL/EFL Test #156 "Dishware and Utensils (1)", question 6

A ......... is a type of utensil that is used to stab or pierce food so that the food can be brought up to a person's mouth. This utensil usually has four finger-type extensions.

(a) knife
(b) spoon
(c) spatula
(d) fork

English Grammar Tests, Elementary Level

ESL/EFL Test #156 "Dishware and Utensils (1)", answer 6

A fork is a type of utensil that is used to stab or pierce food so that the food can be brought up to a person's mouth. This utensil usually has four finger-type extensions.

Correct answer: (d) fork

Your answer was: correct
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Please, tell me the difference between stab and pierce. Are they synonyms?

Zbyněk

[Mister Micawber]

They are similar where a knife or sharp object is concerned. 'Stab' is the rapid forceful action that the stabber executes, while 'pierce' is the effect of breaking the surface of what is stabbed.
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Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's