fatigue

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'fatigue' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the word to refer to feelings of tiredness or exhaustion, either physical or mental. For example: "The long workday left me feeling fatigued and drained of energy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If Cook seems to be suffering a chronic case of competitive fatigue before England's one-day series, which starts next week, there was at least a flash of characteristically restrained fury in his response to his team's humiliation here.

The Guardian - Sport

I gave my routine homily about future limits, offered what advice I could, and said goodbye, mindful of the likely fatigue he would be suffering.

The Guardian

Despite widespread viewer fatigue about Anzac centenary programming this year, when Anzac Day came along, people not only turned up to events in record numbers but they were very keen to watch the day as it unfolded on TV.

The Guardian

She knew all our names, she didn't complain about the fatigue, she said she was delighted to be here.

The Guardian

As usual nowadays, it had been a gruelling schedule and Mr Blair's low-key tone gave a hint of fatigue, pardonable enough even without a noon-day temperature still pushing 100F.

The Guardian

Across the region, there is a fatigue with the wildness and disorder such politics brings.

The Guardian - Opinion

If you've laboured all morning successfully resisting Dairy Milk Oreo bars, you'll suffer "will fatigue" and be more likely to shout at your dog in the evening.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"If you believe that persisting in tough tasks is energising rather than depleting," he writes, "will it protect you from will fatigue?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Government health experts are backing an experimental drug intended to boost the female sex drive, but stress that it must carry safety restrictions to manage side effects including fatigue, low blood pressure and fainting.

The Guardian

Yet Ratmansky is showing signs of fatigue: his eyes are rimmed with red and his fingers keep massaging his temples.

The Guardian

It has been the tournament of fallen heroes, Wawrinka beating his compatriot and 17-slam champion Roger Federer in the quarters, with Djokovic succumbing when least expected – and refusing to blame fatigue after a semi-final of more than four hours against Andy Murray, completed the previous day.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about medical conditions, use "fatigue" to describe a state of prolonged tiredness distinct from normal sleepiness. Be specific about the type of "fatigue", such as mental, physical, or emotional.

Common error

Avoid using "fatigue" interchangeably with everyday tiredness. "Fatigue" implies a deeper, more persistent exhaustion that isn't relieved by a short rest. Using "tiredness" might be more appropriate for describing temporary weariness.

Linguistic Context

The word "fatigue" primarily functions as a noun, referring to a state of weariness or exhaustion. It can also function as a verb, meaning to make someone tired. Ludwig shows varied examples of "fatigue" used in different contexts, confirming its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

26%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fatigue" is a versatile term primarily used as a noun to describe a state of weariness or exhaustion, but it can also function as a verb. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts, including news, science, and business. To enhance clarity, distinguish "fatigue" from simple tiredness, and when relevant, specify the type of "fatigue" (physical, mental, or emotional). Its widespread use across diverse sources underscores its importance in both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

weariness

Focuses more on mental or emotional exhaustion rather than physical.

tiredness

A more general term for feeling a need to rest.

exhaustion

Implies a more severe depletion of energy.

lethargy

Suggests a state of reduced energy and motivation.

lassitude

Indicates a lack of energy and enthusiasm.

enervation

Describes a feeling of being drained of vitality.

debilitation

Refers to a weakening or disabling effect.

burnout

Specifically relates to exhaustion from prolonged stress.

wear-out

Suggests a loss of effectiveness through prolonged use or effort.

depletion

Highlights the reduction of something essential, like energy or resources.

FAQs

How can I accurately describe the feeling of fatigue in a sentence?

To accurately describe the feeling of "fatigue", focus on its intensity and duration. For example, you might say, "Chronic illness caused persistent fatigue", or "The demanding project resulted in severe mental fatigue".

What are some alternatives to the word "fatigue" that I can use in my writing?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "weariness", "tiredness", or "exhaustion" to convey similar meanings.

Is it correct to use "fatigue" to describe the weakening of materials?

Yes, "fatigue" is also used in engineering and materials science to describe the weakening of a material caused by repeated stress. For example, "Metal fatigue can lead to structural failure".

What is the difference between feeling "tired" and experiencing "fatigue"?

Feeling "tired" is a common, temporary state relieved by rest or sleep. "Fatigue", on the other hand, is a persistent state of exhaustion that isn't easily relieved. It often indicates a deeper underlying physical or mental condition.