pad

USAGE SUMMARY

The word “pad” is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used as either a noun or verb depending on the context. Example sentence: I wrote down my thoughts in my notepad.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Laying the pus-covered pad on the desk in front of him, he gave up his secret.

The Guardian

It's day four so I'm barely bleeding, but I'm still wearing a sanitary pad.

The Guardian - Opinion

However, the chance to pad through the shadowy aisles of damp barrels, and admire the ecclesiastical architecture shouldn't be missed.

The Guardian - Travel

Located above fashionable Camps Bay and designed by a leading South African architect, this pad is made up of a main house with five double bedrooms and a penthouse with two doubles, and can be rented separately or as a whole.

The Guardian - Travel

On the opening, title track, his central chorus line is a breathtaking update of her ruminations – hope and longing swing upward, are briefly lit, and then pad softly down into a dim world of inner brooding.

The Guardian - Music

When the conversion of numbers 1, 2 and 3 Cornwall Terrace – acquired last year for £120m by Sheikha Mozah bint Nasser Al Missned, one of the three wives of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former emir of Qatar – is complete, the resulting palace is expected to be London's first £200m-plus pad.

The Guardian

He reached into his pocket and pulled out an old sanitary pad.

The Guardian

"At a time when scientists tell us we need to reduce carbon pollution to prevent catastrophic climate change, it is absurd to provide massive taxpayer subsidies that pad fossil-fuel companies' already enormous profits," said senator Bernie Sanders, who announced on 30 April he is running for president.

The Guardian

Garlic and chinese chives (which you may remember from our old friend pad thai) are popular – used by Brissenden, Stein and Luu – as is mint (Brissenden, Luu, Stein and Gourmet).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The emphasis is on relaxing and being looked after by the incredibly friendly staff who pad quietly around, slipping fresh towels on to your sunbed if you can summon the energy to get off it for a dip in the sea, and asking you at around the same time as you ordered a beer yesterday if you would like one today.

The Guardian - Travel

That Russian connection Green mentioned is the multimillionaire petrochemicals trader Max Demin, who owns a pad down the road on Sandbanks, one of the UK's most expensive pieces of real estate, and a share of the football club.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pad" as a verb, be mindful of whether you mean to 'stuff', 'lengthen', or 'walk softly' to ensure clarity in your writing.

Common error

Be cautious when using "pad" in the context of writing or financial reports. Overuse can imply dishonesty or a lack of genuine content, which can damage your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The word "pad" functions as both a noun and a verb, covering a wide range of meanings from physical cushions to actions like softening sounds or expanding text. As Ludwig AI clarifies, context is key to understanding its usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pad" is a versatile term functioning as both a noun and a verb, with diverse meanings ranging from physical objects to actions. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. It is frequently used across various contexts, including News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science. Understanding the specific context is crucial for accurate interpretation. While it is generally safe to use "pad", be mindful of potential negative connotations when discussing padding in writing or finance. Considering alternative phrases like "cushion" or "soften" can also enhance clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cushion

Focuses on providing a soft, protective layer, similar to one meaning of "pad".

launching area

Specifically relates to the 'launch pad' meaning, indicating a place for launching rockets.

sanitary towel

Highlights the sanitary nature of "pad", specifying it's meant for menstruation.

lodging

Corresponds to the 'place of residence' meaning of pad, focusing on providing accommodation.

fill out

Refers to adding content or details, mirroring the 'padding' of a story or document.

thicken

Suggests making something denser or more substantial, related to physically padding something.

soften

Implies making something less harsh or severe, differing from simply adding cushioning.

footpath

Emphasizes the path-like quality of "pad", specifying it's for walking.

increase

Indicates a general rise in quantity or size, less specific than padding for deceptive purposes.

highwayman

Focuses on the robber aspect of the historical meaning of "pad", specifiying they rob on the road.

FAQs

How can "pad" be used as a verb?

As a verb, "pad" can mean to stuff, to furnish with a pad, to lengthen a story with unnecessary details, or to walk softly. For example, "The author began to pad her succinct stories with trite descriptions".

What does "pad" mean in the context of electronics?

In electronics, "pad" can refer to a pressure-sensitive panel, a keypad, or a mousepad. It also refers to a flat surface for launching aircraft.

Is "pad" used in sports?

Yes, in cricket, a "pad" is a protective gear worn on the legs of batsmen. Additionally, "pad" as a verb can mean to deliberately play the ball with the leg pad instead of the bat.

What is a suitable alternative for "pad" when referring to a residence?

When "pad" refers to a residence, you can use alternatives like "lodgings", "digs", or "domicile", depending on the level of formality.