started to sweat

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "started to sweat" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the beginning of the physical response of sweating, often due to heat, exertion, or nervousness. Example: "As the presentation began, I started to sweat from the pressure of speaking in front of the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

Aristone started to sweat.

The New Yorker

I started to sweat.

The New York Times

I actually started to sweat.

The New Yorker

Recalling that moment, Mr. Weatherill said he started to sweat.

The New York Times

"I started to sweat a lot, a cold sweat," he said.

The New York Times

I had started to sweat because I was wearing my business suit.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Her hand starts to sweat.

The New Yorker

"I'm starting to sweat.

The New York Times

I sighed, starting to sweat.

The New York Times - Travel

He's starting to sweat.

The New Yorker

I felt my palms start to sweat.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "started to sweat" to vividly describe a character's reaction to stress, physical exertion, or a sudden change in environment in your narrative.

Common error

Avoid using "started to sweat" excessively when describing hot weather; instead, vary your descriptions with phrases that capture the overall feeling of heat and humidity such as “the air hung heavy” or “heat radiated from the pavement”.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "started to sweat" functions as a verb phrase indicating the commencement of a physical action. Ludwig's examples show it describing reactions to diverse stimuli, from anxiety-inducing questions to physical exertion. It serves to depict a character's immediate physiological response.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "started to sweat" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the onset of perspiration, often due to heat, exertion, or nervousness. Predominantly used in news and media contexts, as demonstrated by Ludwig, it effectively conveys a character's immediate physical response. While generally neutral in register, more formal alternatives like "began to perspire" may be preferred in highly formal settings. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is a reliable choice for descriptive writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

began to perspire

More formal synonym for starting to sweat, focusing on the physiological response.

broke out in a sweat

Emphasizes the sudden onset of sweating, often due to anxiety or nervousness.

felt beads of sweat

Focuses on the sensation of sweat forming on the skin.

became clammy

Highlights the cold and damp feeling of sweat, often associated with fear.

got flushed

Describes the reddening of the face accompanied by a feeling of heat, which can be related to sweating.

grew anxious

Focuses on the emotion that often causes sweating, indicating rising anxiety levels.

palms got sweaty

Specific to sweaty hands, a common symptom of nervousness.

started feeling hot

Describes the sensation of rising body temperature, which can lead to sweating.

became nervous

Highlights the emotional state leading to physical symptoms like sweating.

felt a trickle of sweat

Focuses on a small amount of sweat, emphasizing the physical sensation.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone says they "started to sweat"?

It typically indicates the onset of perspiration due to heat, physical exertion, nervousness, or anxiety. The context usually determines the specific reason.

What are some alternative ways to say "started to sweat"?

You can use alternatives such as "began to perspire", "broke out in a sweat", or "became clammy" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "started to sweat"?

Yes, "started to sweat" is grammatically correct and a common way to describe the beginning of the sweating process.

In what situations is it most appropriate to use the phrase "started to sweat"?

It's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts when describing a character's physical reaction to heat, anxiety, or physical exertion. However, in extremely formal writing, "began to perspire" may be preferred.