sweltering afternoon

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sweltering afternoon" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a particularly hot and uncomfortable afternoon, often in a literary or descriptive context. Example: "As the sun blazed overhead, we sought refuge from the sweltering afternoon heat under the shade of a large oak tree."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Throughout a sweltering afternoon, though, it was difficult not to look forward.

The New York Times - Sports

And Burnett ran out of pitches on a sweltering afternoon, Girardi said.

The New York Times

It's as lovely as things get on a sweltering afternoon at the Open.

The New Yorker

And especially not on a sweltering afternoon on a deserted country road.

The New Yorker

They were part of a small group of young people who had gone to Bronx Park on a sweltering afternoon.

The New York Times

But after a grueling first set that lasted nearly an hour, the No1 seed Williams faded on a sweltering afternoon.

The Guardian - Sport

The inspired performance came on a sweltering afternoon before fewer than 5,000 spectators, some cheering for the visitors.

The New York Times

When I met Barzani in his office in the town of Salahuddin, on a sweltering afternoon, he cut an almost elfin figure.

The New Yorker

But on a sweltering afternoon in July, the students were still many weeks away from showing up, and only support staff and Antioch's new teachers were present.

The New York Times - Magazine

Colloquy overheard the other sweltering afternoon on a Madison Avenue bus: First Young Matron: "I'm getting so tired of having all our meals in the bedroom".

The New Yorker

One sweltering afternoon, Sherry Soforo gave out free samples of her new product, CoCo's Organic Sorbet for Dogs, at Ocean Road Beach.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sweltering afternoon" to vividly describe a setting or situation where heat plays a significant role. It's particularly effective in descriptive writing and storytelling to evoke a sense of discomfort or lethargy.

Common error

While "sweltering afternoon" is appropriate for descriptive prose, it may sound too informal or dramatic for professional reports or technical documents. Opt for more neutral terms like "hot afternoon" in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sweltering afternoon" functions primarily as a descriptive element, modifying a noun (afternoon) with an adjective (sweltering) that conveys intense heat. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is grammatically correct and usable. The examples show its usage in describing events and settings.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sweltering afternoon" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a particularly hot and uncomfortable afternoon. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. Predominantly found in News & Media, the phrase effectively conveys intense heat and discomfort. While versatile, it's best suited for descriptive writing where vivid imagery is desired, and should be used judiciously in highly formal contexts. Consider alternatives like "scorching afternoon" or "oppressive afternoon heat" for varied expression. The phrase is best used to paint a scene or evoke a feeling associated with extreme heat.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Scorching afternoon

Replaces "sweltering" with a synonym emphasizing the intensity of the heat.

Blistering afternoon

Similar to "scorching", but with a stronger implication of burning heat.

Sizzling afternoon

Emphasizes the active and intense nature of the heat.

Oppressive afternoon heat

Shifts the focus to the feeling of being weighed down by the heat.

Stifling afternoon

Highlights the lack of air movement and the difficulty in breathing due to heat.

Torrid afternoon

A more formal and literary synonym for "sweltering".

Hot and humid afternoon

Explicitly mentions both heat and humidity, common components of sweltering weather.

Burning afternoon sun

Focuses on the sun as the source of the intense heat.

A baking hot afternoon

Uses a simile to describe the intensity of the heat.

Intensely hot afternoon

A straightforward and less evocative way to express the same idea.

FAQs

How can I use "sweltering afternoon" in a sentence?

You can use "sweltering afternoon" to vividly describe a hot and uncomfortable time, such as: "The players struggled through the "sweltering afternoon" game." or "We sought refuge from the "sweltering afternoon" heat under the shade of a large tree."

What can I say instead of "sweltering afternoon"?

You can use alternatives like "scorching afternoon", "blistering afternoon", or "oppressive afternoon heat" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "sweltering afternoon" formal or informal?

"Sweltering afternoon" leans towards the informal side due to its descriptive and evocative nature. In formal contexts, consider more neutral terms like "hot afternoon".

What's the difference between "sweltering afternoon" and "hot afternoon"?

"Sweltering afternoon" implies a more intense and uncomfortable heat than a simple "hot afternoon". "Sweltering" suggests oppressive, humid, and difficult conditions, while "hot" is a more general descriptor.