a heave

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a heave" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a strong pull or lift, often in the context of physical effort or exertion. Example: "With a mighty heave, he lifted the heavy box onto the shelf."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

This was a heave.

The New York Times - Sports

A heave.

The New York Times - Sports

The game was not decided until the final play, a heave by Watkins that was intercepted.

The New York Times - Sports

It was not a heave off one foot, or a desperate lunge toward the rim.

The New York Times - Sports

I give him another couple of overs before he starts to have a heave.

The Guardian - Sport

They won it, and up went the roar for a "heave!".

The Guardian - Sport

Cooper has a heave at Broad's first ball and sends it whizzing over mid-on.

The Guardian - Sport

61 min: Georgia get a heave on and have pushed England back to their 22.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

I'd give it a heave-ho but then my batting average doesn't make for pretty reading".

The Guardian - Sport

It is an eccentricity of mine, but wherever possible I give a heave-ho to the TV.

The New York Times - Travel

In a nod to "999 Tadpoles," the little frogs rouse the slumbering reptile out of its bedtime cave with a "Heave-Ho!" until they realize the dormant tail belongs to a predatory snake.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a heave" to describe a forceful or strained action, whether physical or metaphorical. It's particularly effective when conveying effort or difficulty.

Common error

Avoid using "a heave" to describe gentle or delicate movements. "Heave" implies significant effort or strain, so use it only when the action is forceful or labored.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a heave" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It typically describes an act of lifting or throwing something with great effort. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in both physical and metaphorical contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Sports

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a heave" is a versatile noun phrase used to describe actions involving significant effort or strain. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, especially in news, sports, and scientific writing. It effectively conveys the intensity of a physical action or a strong emotional expression. While "a heave" is widely accepted, writers should consider alternatives like "a strong pull" or "a mighty lift" depending on the specific nuance they wish to convey. By understanding these subtleties, you can use "a heave" with precision and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a strong pull

Emphasizes the pulling aspect of a heave, suitable when the force applied is directed towards oneself.

a mighty lift

Highlights the upward motion and effort involved in lifting something heavy.

a forceful throw

Focuses on the act of throwing something with considerable power and momentum.

a strenuous tug

Implies a difficult or exhausting pulling action.

a desperate lunge

Describes a sudden and urgent movement, often made in a critical situation.

a vigorous push

Highlights the pushing aspect of applying force to something.

a powerful thrust

Suggests a strong and sudden forward movement.

a valiant effort

Emphasizes the courageous attempt to lift, pull, or throw something, even if unsuccessful.

a concerted effort

Suggests a coordinated and determined attempt by multiple people.

a laboured breath

Refers to breathing with difficulty, often due to physical exertion.

FAQs

How can I use "a heave" in a sentence?

"A heave" is often used to describe a forceful or strained action. For example, "With "a heave", he lifted the heavy box." It can also be used metaphorically, as in "He let out "a heave" of frustration".

What are some synonyms for "a heave"?

Depending on the context, you could use synonyms such as "a strong pull", "a mighty lift", or "a forceful throw".

Is it correct to say "he gave a heave"?

Yes, "he gave "a heave"" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe someone making a strong or strained effort.

What is the difference between "a heave" and "a sigh"?

"A heave" usually implies a physical effort or strain, while "a sigh" is typically an audible expression of emotion, such as relief or sadness.