Burned to a cinder Meaning in English
expression
Definition
Totally burned until only a black, charred piece remains. Often used for food that has been severely overcooked, but can describe anything completely burned.
Usage & Nuances
Mostly informal; common when talking about badly overcooked food. Can also be used metaphorically for anything destroyed by burning. Alternatives: 'burned to ashes', 'charred.' Often expresses frustration or disappointment.
Example Sentences
The toast was burned to a cinder and I had to throw it away.
basic
She left the pizza in the oven until it was burned to a cinder.
basic
My cookie is burned to a cinder and tastes horrible.
basic
By the time I remembered the chicken, it was burned to a cinder.
natural
Those marshmallows weren't just toasted—they were burned to a cinder!
natural
The documents were burned to a cinder in the accident, so nothing could be recovered.
natural