stint
MediumNeutral
Definition
Meaning
A fixed or limited period of time spent on a task or activity.
To restrict or limit something, especially resources or effort.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
As a noun, it implies a temporary or limited duration; as a verb, it connotes frugality or restraint.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage.
Connotations
Neutral in both dialects, implying limitation or a temporary period.
Frequency
Slightly more common in British English, but used in both.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
stint on [noun]stint [oneself] of [noun]stint to [verb]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “without stint”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used to describe temporary job assignments or periods of employment.
Academic
Found in texts discussing work history or limited time frames.
Everyday
Common in casual conversation about short-term jobs or efforts.
Technical
Not typically used in technical contexts; general vocabulary.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- He didn't stint on the hospitality during the event.
American English
- She stinted on her spending to afford the vacation.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- He did a short stint at the factory.
- After a brief stint as a waiter, she found a better job.
- His stint in the army taught him valuable skills.
- Without stint, she devoted all her resources to the research project.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'stint' as a 'stint' in time – it's limited, like a hint of time spent.
Conceptual Metaphor
Time or resources as a commodity to be rationed.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid translating directly as 'время' without the nuance of limitation; use 'период' with appropriate context.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'stint' as a transitive verb without an object, e.g., 'He stinted' instead of 'He stinted on food'.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary meaning of 'stint' as a noun?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but it typically implies a fixed or limited duration, whether short or long.
It is neutral in register and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
Commonly with 'on', as in 'stint on resources', or reflexively as 'stint oneself'.
Yes, 'without stint' means without limit or restriction.