in chaps

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in chaps" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a style of clothing, specifically leather trousers worn by cowboys or bikers, or it can be used informally to refer to men or boys in a casual context. Example: "The rodeo was filled with cowboys in chaps, showcasing their skills in the arena."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In chaps.

The New Yorker

We love the chaps in chaps.

The Guardian - Film

Now Ralph Lauren has expressed all this in Chaps, his new men's cologne.

The Guardian - Books

Young women in bikinis rubbed shoulders with older men in chaps — or even less modest attire.

The New York Times

Perhaps that's is where the answer lies: it seems that chaps in chaps still incite the imaginations of international audiences.

The Guardian - Film

Musing out loud about Porter's ersatz cowboy classic, "Don't Fence Me In," she joked, "I know what you're thinking — Karen Akers in chaps.

The New York Times - Arts

G. J. H. Roberts: Drink, cheeks stuffed with a ready meal, tree, emptied pies and nuts, crackers, giving gifts (CHAMPERS/PRESENTS; CHAMREPSENTS; MRE (qv) in chaps; anag.

The Guardian

It went on to describe "riders on horseback, buckboards and buggies, and men with tanned faces and alert eyes in chaps and spurs, or blue jeans and Stetsons".

The New York Times

It's amusing to make the lost princelings into hicks - swaggering along in chaps and stetsons - but what are they doing in Milford Haven?

The Guardian

Tom of Finland's musclebound blond bikers, men in uniform and a whole closet full of leatherwear not only illustrated a sexual style, but partly invented and glamorised the look: caps, moustaches, chaps in chaps – the overt, often parodic masculinity.

The Guardian - Arts

Brokeback Mountain, and its now legendary tale of chaps in chaps, not only won three Oscars but brought tears to eyes that would hitherto have been averted as if in response to some mortal threat.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in chaps" to clearly indicate that someone is wearing chaps, especially when describing Western or biker attire. Ensure the context supports this specific garment and style.

Common error

Avoid using "in chaps" when describing other types of leather garments, such as leather pants or leggings. Chaps are specifically leg coverings, often worn over trousers, and should not be confused with other forms of leather attire.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in chaps" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe someone's attire. As Ludwig AI clarifies, it indicates the wearing of chaps, often associated with cowboys or bikers, enhancing a description with details about clothing. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its usage in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase “in chaps” is a grammatically sound and commonly used prepositional phrase that indicates someone is wearing chaps. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, it serves to provide descriptive detail, adding visual imagery and stylistic cues. Although generally neutral, the context dictates its formality. Be mindful to correctly identify chaps from other leather garments. Using it effectively can add flair and precision to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wearing chaps

Focuses on the act of wearing the garment, emphasizing the attire itself.

with chaps on

A simpler, more direct way of saying "in chaps", focusing on the presence of the garment.

clad in chaps

A more formal way of saying 'wearing chaps', emphasizing the attire as part of the overall appearance.

outfitted in chaps

Suggests a complete outfit that includes chaps, emphasizing the overall look.

attired in chaps

Similar to clad in chaps, a formal way of describing someone wearing chaps.

donning chaps

Emphasizes the action of putting on chaps, suggesting a deliberate choice of attire.

in leather leg coverings

Describes the garment in more general terms, focusing on the material and function.

sporting chaps

Implies a more casual or fashionable wearing of chaps.

wearing protective legwear

Describes the function of chaps as protective clothing, moving away from the specific garment.

in cowboy attire

Broadens the scope to include other elements of cowboy clothing, of which chaps may be a part.

FAQs

How can I describe someone wearing chaps?

You can say "wearing chaps" or "clad in chaps" as alternatives to "in chaps", depending on the context and desired formality.

Is "in chaps" formal or informal?

The phrase "in chaps" is generally considered neutral. While it's not overly formal, it's also not strictly informal. The context determines its appropriateness.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "in chaps"?

Use "in chaps" when you specifically want to highlight that someone is wearing chaps, a type of protective leg covering often associated with cowboys or motorcyclists. It's appropriate when the garment itself is relevant to the description.

Are there any potential misunderstandings when using the phrase "in chaps"?

Potential misunderstandings are minimal, but ensure that the audience understands what chaps are. If there is any doubt, you could add a brief description or use the more general term "wearing protective legwear".