the gulp

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the gulp" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sudden intake of breath or a swallowing action, often in a context of surprise or anxiety. Example: "As she opened the letter, she felt a gulp in her throat, unsure of what the news would bring."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

The gulp this engendered was soon followed by another.

The Guardian - Travel

The (gulp) two-hour marathon is exciting and appalling.

The Guardian - Music

They stop to eat lunch, and later abandon their search for the gulp.

The New Yorker

The executive, in an interview with The Bangor Daily News, recalled thinking that the Gulp would never take off.

The New York Times

Or do you remember the – gulp – 30-year-old original and want to see how the new one plays?

The Guardian - Tech

Charges of petty corruption led to his dismissal in 1962, but he and the GULP came back in 1967, and in 1974 he was elected prime minister.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

The gulp-we're-on-our-own moment came when we slammed the doors of the car shut against the howling wind outside the hospital.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

At each step that he took he felt he was about to fall over, and he had the impression that he was yawing irresistibly in the direction of the glass wall and the gulp-inducing nothingness beyond.

The New York Times

Finally, the gulps and gasps stopped.

The Guardian - Opinion

The "gulping guppy" face is similar to the Cayenne's.

The New York Times

The gulping breaths of the first time the swim instructor let go.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the gulp" when you want to convey a specific instance of swallowing, especially when it suggests an emotional or involuntary reaction. It is effective in narrative writing to add depth to a character's response.

Common error

Avoid using "the gulp" to describe ordinary swallowing. It is best reserved for moments when the act carries emotional weight or signifies a distinct reaction, as using it in mundane contexts can sound unnatural or overly dramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the gulp" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to a specific instance or sound of swallowing, typically implying an emotional or involuntary reaction. As seen in Ludwig, the examples provided reveal the phrase's use in conveying moments of anxiety, surprise, or realization.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the gulp" is a noun phrase used to describe a specific instance of swallowing, often implying an emotional or involuntary reaction. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for adding emotional depth to writing. While not extremely common, its use is consistent across various sources, including news media, scientific publications, and online encyclopedias. When using "the gulp", reserve it for situations where the swallowing action carries emotional significance to enhance the impact and realism of your writing. The phrase is best used in descriptive form.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that swallow

Focuses specifically on the action of swallowing, omitting the potential emotional connotation.

that draught

Emphasizes the amount swallowed, typically referring to a large quantity.

the act of swallowing

Highlights the physiological process rather than any implied reaction or sound.

that swig

Implies a quick and casual swallow, often of a beverage.

the swallowing sound

Zeroes in on the noise produced during the act, devoid of emotional context.

an audible swallow

Highlights the sound of swallowing, similar to "the swallowing sound".

that fear reaction

Shifts the focus to the emotion being experienced, rather than the physical manifestation.

a nervous swallow

Emphasizes the emotional state driving the physical action.

the quick swallow

Emphasizes speed of swallowing, but misses the potential nervous connotation.

that lump in one's throat

Describes the sensation often accompanying the physical action, highlighting an emotional reaction.

FAQs

How can I use "the gulp" in a sentence?

You can use "the gulp" to describe a physical reaction to an emotional stimulus, such as fear or surprise. For example: "The gulp this engendered was soon followed by another."

What does "the gulp" imply beyond just swallowing?

"The gulp" often suggests a nervous or involuntary reaction, signaling fear, anxiety, or surprise. It adds emotional context to a simple act of swallowing.

Which is more appropriate, "the gulp" or "the swallow"?

"The gulp" is more suitable when you want to emphasize an emotional reaction accompanying the swallow. Use "the swallow" when focusing solely on the physical act without additional emotional connotations.

Can I use "the gulp" to describe drinking?

While you can use "the gulp" to describe drinking, it's more commonly associated with swallowing in response to an emotion or realization. Alternatives like "the swig" or "the draught" are more precise for describing the act of drinking.