starting to sweat

USAGE SUMMARY

"starting to sweat" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone beginning to perspire, often due to nervousness, anxiety, or physical exertion. Example: "As the race began, John could feel himself starting to sweat. He knew he needed to keep a steady pace if he wanted to make it to the finish line first."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

"I'm starting to sweat.

The New York Times

He's starting to sweat.

The New Yorker

I sighed, starting to sweat.

The New York Times - Travel

Wright is starting to sweat under his linen blazer.

The Guardian - Film

By this point, my heart was racing and my palms were starting to sweat.

The New York Times

Her black hair was still perfectly curled, but she was starting to sweat as she fought the crowds.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Aristone started to sweat.

The New Yorker

I started to sweat.

The New York Times

Her hand starts to sweat.

The New Yorker

I actually started to sweat.

The New Yorker

I felt my palms start to sweat.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance descriptions of physical exertion, combining the phrase with the location of the sweat (e.g., "starting to sweat on his brow") can create a stronger mental image.

Common error

While appropriate in descriptive writing, overuse of "starting to sweat" in casual conversation can sound overly dramatic or clinical. Consider simpler alternatives like "I'm getting warm" or "I'm feeling nervous" depending on the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "starting to sweat" primarily functions as a verbal phrase within a sentence, typically serving as part of the predicate. It describes an action that is beginning to occur. Ludwig examples illustrate its usage in describing physical sensations linked to various emotional and environmental conditions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "starting to sweat" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe the initial stage of perspiration. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is versatile and can effectively convey both physical and emotional states. While generally neutral in register, it's essential to consider the context and audience to avoid sounding overly dramatic. When seeking alternatives, consider options like "beginning to perspire" for a more formal tone or "getting anxious" when emphasizing the emotional aspect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

beginning to perspire

A more formal way to describe the same physical sensation. Also this alternative is often used when physical exertion is the cause.

getting anxious

Focuses on the emotional state leading to physical symptoms, rather than the sweating itself.

getting nervous

Similar to "getting anxious", emphasizing the nervousness as the primary feeling.

feeling the pressure

Highlights the stress or challenge causing the reaction, rather than the physical manifestation.

becoming uneasy

Indicates a growing sense of discomfort or apprehension, often preceding physical symptoms.

breaking a sweat

This alternative indicates that one is already in the process of sweating and the phrase has a stronger connotation of physical activity or effort

feeling the heat

Similar to "feeling the pressure", but also has a meaning of actually being in a hot environment.

one's palms are getting sweaty

Focuses specifically on sweaty palms as a sign of nervousness or anxiety. This alternative has a stronger connotation of anxiety.

getting hot under the collar

An idiomatic expression meaning becoming agitated or angry, which may or may not lead to sweating.

my brow is furrowing

Expresses a state of thoughtfulness or worry, not necessarily related to sweating.

FAQs

How can I use "starting to sweat" in a sentence?

You can use "starting to sweat" to describe the onset of perspiration due to heat, physical activity, or anxiety. For example, "He could feel himself "starting to sweat" as he waited for the interview to begin."

What are some synonyms for "starting to sweat"?

Alternatives to "starting to sweat" include "beginning to perspire", "getting anxious", or "breaking a sweat" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it more formal to say "beginning to perspire" instead of "starting to sweat"?

Yes, "beginning to perspire" is generally considered more formal than "starting to sweat". The latter is more common in everyday conversation, while the former is often used in more formal or descriptive writing.

When is it appropriate to use "starting to sweat" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "starting to sweat" when you want to convey a character's physical reaction to a situation, whether it's due to physical exertion, nervousness, or heat. Be mindful of the tone; in some contexts, a more clinical term like "beginning to perspire" might be more suitable.