There is a straw. I want to make a sound by blowing hard. Can we use the expressions?
1. Blow the straw to make a sound.
2. Blow across the straw to make a sound.
3. Blow into the straw to make a sound.
4. Blow on the straw to make a sound.
5. Blow over the straw to make a sound.
[Don't we have to use #1? Can we use #2? What about the others?]
2, 4, and 5 will work.
2 or 5 depending on if you hold the straw with its long axis vertical or horizontal.
Normally it would be 5, blowing over the hole in the top of the straw.
All of the expressions you mentioned can be used to describe the action of making a sound with a straw, and they convey slightly different ways of achieving this. Let's go through each one:
1. "Blow the straw to make a sound" - This expression is grammatically correct, and it suggests that you blow directly into the straw to create a sound. This is the most straightforward way to describe the action.
2. "Blow across the straw to make a sound" - This expression is also grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably with the first one. It implies that you blow horizontally across the opening of the straw rather than blowing directly into it.
3. "Blow into the straw to make a sound" - This expression is grammatically correct and closely resembles the first expression. It suggests that you blow directly into the straw to create a sound. However, it doesn't mention anything about how the air is directed inside the straw.
4. "Blow on the straw to make a sound" - This expression is grammatically correct as well, but it might suggest a different action. When you say "blow on the straw," it often conveys the idea of blowing air on the external surface of the straw rather than into the straw itself. So, it might not accurately describe the intended action of making a sound.
5. "Blow over the straw to make a sound" - This expression is also grammatically correct, but it implies blowing air above the straw rather than into or across it. It may create a sound, but not through the mechanism of air passing through the straw.
Overall, options 1 and 2 are the most accurate ways to describe the specific action of making a sound with a straw.