sweat

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sweat" is correct and usable in written English, depending on the context.
It can be used in various contexts, such as discussing physical exertion, stress, or anxiety. Example: "After running the marathon, I was covered in sweat and felt a sense of accomplishment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I've felt really cold, so I'm just fighting that, trying to sweat it out.

The Guardian - Sport

When I thought about that train steaming over my head, my heart pounded and sweat leaked from every pore.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

While winning an Olympic medal may take blood, tears and years of training, buying one at auction won't make you break out into a sweat.

The Guardian

You might be better showing us how to start a small business, one old sweat tells the trainer.

The Guardian

Dressed in her nightgown her face is tranquil; a few beads of sweat gathering at her temples the only sign of a concealed distress.

The Guardian

I might challenge a rival cold caller, making them sweat for their charity with awkward questions I know only too well.

The Guardian

Heat a little oil in a large pan and brown the meat on high heat for five minutes, then lower the heat, cover and sweat for 15 minutes.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Obviously I meet that criterion without even breaking sweat.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Thanks to the cameras, it was possible to glimpse all sorts of revealingly human moments: the sweat on the brow of a pallbearer after piloting the coffin up the steps of St Paul's; the sudden, muttered aside of the Queen to the Duke of Edinburgh as the coffin itself passed by; the concentration on the face of a boy-treble as the choir sang the anthem from the Fauré Requiem.

The Guardian

"I've produced work in the past that has involved lots of detailed investigation, considerable risk, and not a small amount of sweat, that I wished the authorities would have been even a little bit offended by.

The Guardian

Andy Smith, a teenager from New Jersey, carries a handkerchief – on which his mother embroidered a Rubik's Cube – to wipe the sweat from his hands before he begins solving.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical exertion, use "sweat" to vividly convey effort and intensity. For example, "He worked up a sweat during the workout."

Common error

Ensure you don't accidentally type "sweet" when you mean "sweat", especially in contexts related to physical activity or anxiety. "Sweet" refers to sugar or pleasantness, while "sweat" refers to perspiration.

Linguistic Context

Sweat functions as both a noun, referring to the fluid excreted by the body, and a verb, describing the act of perspiring or working hard. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of the word in various contexts. The examples show its usage in describing physical exertion, anxiety, and even cooking techniques.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Lifestyle

18%

Sport

12%

Less common in

Opinion

8%

Books

7%

Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sweat" is a versatile word functioning as both a noun and a verb, denoting perspiration, hard work, or anxiety. Ludwig AI confirms its broad acceptability in English. It appears most frequently in news, lifestyle, and sports contexts. While "perspiration" is a more formal synonym, "sweat" aptly conveys both physical exertion and emotional stress. Avoid confusing "sweat" with "sweet". By considering these nuances, writers can effectively use "sweat" to enhance their expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

perspiration

Refers specifically to the liquid produced by sweat glands; more formal.

exude moisture

Focuses on the emission of moisture, whether from the body or an object.

be anxious

Highlights the worry or anxiety aspect of "sweating" something.

toil

Emphasizes the hard work and effort associated with sweating.

fret

Captures the meaning of being concerned or agitated about something.

work hard

Focuses on the exertion involved in sweating.

glow

A less intense form of perspiration, often associated with exercise.

be stressed

Highlights the stress and pressure that can lead to sweating.

ooze

Describes a slow or gradual emission of liquid.

transpire

A more formal term for emitting moisture.

FAQs

How can I use "sweat" in a sentence?

You can use "sweat" to describe physical exertion, like "I worked up a "sweat" at the gym", or anxiety, like "Don't "sweat" the small stuff".

What is the difference between "sweat" and "perspiration"?

"Sweat" and "perspiration" are largely synonymous, but "perspiration" is often considered a more formal term for the bodily fluid excreted through pores.

What can I say instead of "I'm sweating" when I'm worried?

You can use alternatives like "I'm anxious", "I'm worried", or "I'm stressed" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "sweat it out"?

Yes, "sweat it out" is an idiomatic expression that means to endure a difficult situation, often by waiting and doing nothing.