bug
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /bʌɡ/
KK: /bʌg/
intransitive verb
Definition
To grow larger or bulge out, often in surprise or shock.
Example
My eyes bugged when I saw the mess.
Tense Forms
Past: bugged
Past Participle: bugged
Conversation
Did you see the price of that new phone?
Yeah, it made my eyes bug out when I checked it online!
Right? I couldn't believe how expensive it is now.
Same here! It's like prices just keep going up.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
bulge
protrude
expand
Antonyms
shrink
diminish
contract
noun
Definition
A small insect or a problem in a system or design that causes it to not work properly.
Example
The software has a bug that needs to be fixed before the release.
Conversation
I think I caught a bug from my coworker.
Oh no! Is it bad?
Yeah, I've been feeling under the weather all week.
transitive verb
Definition
To annoy or bother someone persistently.
Example
The loud music really bugs me when I'm trying to concentrate.
Tense Forms
Past: bugged
Past Participle: bugged
Conversation
You know what really bugs me? When people chew loudly.
Oh, I totally get that! It can be so distracting.
Exactly! I try to ignore it, but it just keeps bothering me.
Root Explanation
The word 'bug' originates from Middle English 'bugge', meaning a ghost or scare. It is also related to the Old English 'bugge', which referred to a frightening creature or object. Over time, the meaning evolved to include insects and, more broadly, any small, annoying creature.
Memory Tip
Think of 'bug' as something that can 'scare' you, like a ghost or a creepy insect. This helps you remember that a bug can be both a frightening creature and a small insect.
Visually Confused Words
burg
bung
ug
bu