snaps

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "snaps" can be correct and usable in written English, depending on the context.
It is often used informally to describe a quick or sudden action, such as taking a photograph or making a decision. Example: "She quickly snaps a picture of the sunset before it disappears."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There has also been significant excess mortality this week among those aged 65-plus, coinciding with circulating flu and the recent cold snaps.

The Guardian

His feed has been all about travel lately, but you'll also find snaps of this Brazilian city.

The Guardian

Instagram-filtered snaps of tattooed brides standing in front of graffitied walls?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The story of Twitter, as told over the past few days, snaps perfectly into this bigger jigsaw.

The Guardian - Opinion

Which is fine, but the problem is that there's not anything especially revelatory here: the cast of characters – the gruff patriarch, the diametrically opposed brothers – all feel very tired, and its dialogue sags rather than snaps.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

You have to squeeze in, claw your way along the seafood display, order by weight at the bar, balance your teetering stack, and eat standing up under a bull's head and framed matador snaps.

The Guardian - Travel

An almighty crack of thunder snaps me awake at four in the morning.

The Guardian - Travel

Her feed is a mix of daily life snaps, recipes and views of the city.

The Guardian

But if the role of the grid girl is to pass a bottle of champers to the winning driver and pose for a few happy snaps, why can't the gents join in?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Here, you can ride the escalators, take snaps and engage the wardrobe-shouldered gentlemen in conversations about architecture.

The Guardian - Arts

I pointed out that my directorial credits were nonexistent, that my wife had even banned me from taking family snaps, but Amanda is not easily deterred.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "snaps" in the context of photography, consider the tone. It implies a quick, informal shot. For more formal contexts, use "photographs" or "captures".

Common error

Avoid using "snaps" in academic or professional writing when referring to photography. Opt for more formal terms like "photographs" or "images" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The word "snaps" functions as both a plural noun, referring to quick, informal photographs, and as a third-person singular verb, indicating a sudden action, like breaking or speaking sharply. Ludwig shows examples of both usages.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Lifestyle

25%

Travel

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "snaps" is a versatile term that functions as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to informal photographs, while as a verb, it denotes sudden actions or responses. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and very common. While mostly used in news, lifestyle, and travel content, it's less appropriate for formal academic or professional settings. When choosing "snaps", consider the tone and context to ensure it aligns with your intended message. Alternative phrases like "takes photos" or "captures images" can provide a more formal option.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

takes photos

Replaces "snaps" with a more descriptive verb phrase, focusing on the action of capturing images.

captures images

Similar to 'takes photos' but emphasizes the act of preserving a moment or scene.

takes snapshots

More formal alternative to "snaps" when referring to quick, informal photographs.

grabs quickly

Focuses on the speed and suddenness of taking something, similar to the verb "snap".

briefly photographs

Highlights the brevity of the photographic act.

seizes quickly

Emphasizes the quick and decisive nature of taking hold of something.

suddenly breaks

If snaps is referred to "suddenly breaks".

curtly replies

Emphasizes a short, abrupt response.

impulsively photographs

Describes taking a photo on a whim, without much planning.

becomes irascible

This alternative highlights the change in temper, emphasizing a sudden shift to an irritable state.

FAQs

What does "snaps" mean in photography context?

In the context of photography, "snaps" refers to taking quick, informal photographs, often without much preparation or artistic intention. Consider using "takes photos" or "captures images" for a more formal tone.

Can "snaps" be used in formal writing?

While "snaps" is widely understood, it's generally considered informal. In formal writing, it's better to use more precise and professional terms, such as "photographs" or "images".

What are some alternatives to "snaps" when referring to taking photos?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "takes photos", "captures images", or "takes snapshots". The best choice depends on the desired level of formality and the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "snaps" instead of "photographs"?

"Snaps" is appropriate when you want to convey a sense of informality, spontaneity, or quickness. Use "photographs" when you need a more formal, professional, or technical term for images. For example, "holiday snaps" vs "photographs for the company website".