qat

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "qat" is correct and usable in written English, referring to a plant whose leaves are chewed for their stimulant effects.
You can use it when discussing the cultural or social practices related to the consumption of qat, particularly in regions where it is popular. Example: "In some parts of East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, people gather to chew qat as a social activity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Some households spend up to 20% of their income on qat.

The Economist

Qat accounts for about 30% of the country's GDP and provides a living for 1m people.

The Economist

Of course, families could be spending their money on better diets or on education; but they evidently value qat more highly.

The Economist

Chewing qat was endemic among the male population of Sana'a who could afford it and, according to local sources, had been for years.

The Economist

My point is Brazil's handover has not been completed yet, and the second round on October 31st may oblige you to run a cover of who most Brazilians have chosen, not necessarily who the current president would choose.René Mendes São PauloYemeni habits* SIR �� Your article on qat chewing in Yemen ("You can't easily qat it out", October 2nd) stated that 30 years ago it was an occasional pastime.

The Economist

But the qat tree is the mainstay of the country's economy and the downfall of anyone foolish enough to question its pre-eminence.

The Economist

Yet, a few days ago, President Ali Abdullah Saleh made it known that he was giving up qat and that his people should do likewise.In the eyes of many foreigners and reform-minded Yemenis, qat is the root of the country's numberless ills.

The Economist

Before Yemenis began migrating to the Gulf for jobs, or profiting from Yemen's own modest oil boom, qat was a luxury for the rich on special occasions.

The Economist

One way or another, the government has good reasons not to pick an open fight with its qat-chewers though it could discourage use, and make some money for itself, if it bothered to enforce its theoretical tax on qat-chewers though

The Economist

One of the results of chewing qat is mental stimulation which prevents sleep and as a result leads to work inefficiencies.

The Economist

Qat-chewing, according to a rather self-righteous visitor in 1915, is "a serious social evil, undermining the mental and physical health of the native population the foe alike of thrift and industry".Many regular chewers seem to agree, saying they would not like their children to pick up the habit.Yet qat is spreading.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "qat", be mindful of regional variations in terminology. In some East African countries, the term 'miraa' is more commonly used.

Common error

Avoid generalizing the effects of "qat" consumption. While it is a stimulant, its impact varies depending on the individual and cultural context. Not all users experience the same effects or social consequences.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "qat" is as a noun. It refers to a specific plant or the leaves of that plant, as evidenced by Ludwig. It is often used as a subject or object in sentences describing its cultivation, consumption, or effects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "qat" functions primarily as a noun referring to a specific plant and its leaves, widely consumed as a stimulant in East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. According to Ludwig, its usage is grammatically correct and frequently found in news media. While terms like "khat" and "miraa" serve as synonyms, "qat" maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse contexts. Understanding its cultural and economic implications, as well as regional variations in terminology, is crucial for accurate and sensitive communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

khat

A direct synonym, often used interchangeably with "qat".

qat leaves

Specifies the part of the plant being referred to.

khat leaves

Specifies the part of the plant being referred to, using the synonym 'khat'.

qat chewing

Focuses on the activity of consuming "qat".

khat chewing

Focuses on the activity of consuming "khat".

chewing qat

Inverts the order of words from 'qat chewing'

miraa

A regional name for "qat", commonly used in East Africa.

consuming qat

Uses 'consuming' to describe the action

the qat plant

Refers to the plant itself, rather than the leaves being consumed.

Arabian tea

Another name for qat

FAQs

What is "qat" and where is it commonly used?

"Qat" is a plant whose leaves are chewed as a stimulant. It is commonly used in East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.

What are some alternative names for "qat"?

Some alternative names for "qat" include "khat", "miraa", and "Arabian tea".

What are the potential economic impacts of "qat" cultivation and consumption?

The cultivation and consumption of "qat" can have significant economic impacts, both positive and negative, in regions where it is prevalent. Some argue that it provides income for farmers, while others point to its potential strain on household finances and the economy.

Is "qat" legal in all countries?

No, "qat" is not legal in all countries. Many countries, including the United States and Canada, ban its use. Regulations vary widely by region, so it's important to check local laws.