gouge
word
Definition
To cut or dig something out with force, creating a hole or groove; informally, to charge someone much more than is fair.
Usage & Nuances
'Gouge' as a verb can be physical (e.g., 'gouge a hole,' 'gouge out an eye') or informal (overcharging: 'price gouge'). The noun refers to the act or the tool. Commonly used in the context of damage or unfair prices. 'Price gouging' is widely used in news/consumer contexts.
Spanish: ahuecar - sacar (con fuerza) - estafar (inf.)Portuguese (BR): cavar (com força) - arrancar - explorar (preço alto, inf.)Portuguese (PT): cavar (com força) - arrancar - explorar (preço alto, inf.)Chinese (Simplified): 挖出 - 敲诈高价 (口语)Chinese (Traditional): 挖出 - 敲詐高價 (口語)Hindi: खोदना - ज़्यादा शुल्क लेना (अनौपचारिक)Arabic: ينقب - ينتزع بقوة - يبالغ في الأسعار (عامية)
Example Sentences
The high prices during the storm felt like a gouge.
basic
She used a spoon to gouge the avocado pit out.
natural
Gas stations started to gouge customers after the hurricane.
natural
He gouged his knee on a sharp rock while hiking.
natural
Be careful not to gouge the wood with your knife.
basic
He accidentally gouged a hole in the wall.
basic