throw

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "throw" is correct and usable in written English, depending on the context in which it is used.
You can use it in various contexts, such as to describe the action of propelling something with force or to indicate a sudden action or event. Example: "He decided to throw the ball across the field to his teammate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To the delight of Eurosceptics, the prime minister will throw down the gauntlet to his fellow EU leaders to agree to a revision of Britain's membership terms within two and a half years of the next general election or risk triggering a British exit.

The Guardian

"Very serious allegations have been raised which throw into doubt the safety of our conviction, and there is possibly a miscarriage of justice.

The Guardian

Brenda Achao's surprise phone call was brief: she was graduating in commerce from Uganda's prestigious Makerere University the following week and planned to throw a party in her home village in Katine.

The Guardian

On Tuesday, the Guardian reported a further complaint made against the lieutenant in September 2013 by Andrew McAleer, the husband of Rice's former partner Karyn McAleer, who alleged he witnessed Rice holding Karyn's stolen mail and attempting to throw it into a public garbage can.

The Guardian

But they did not so much take their foot off the gas as apply the handbrake, turn off the engine and throw the key out of the window.

The Guardian - Sport

"We had to write 'ordinary posts', about making cakes or music tracks we liked, but then every now and then throw in a political post about how the Kiev government is fascist, or that sort of thing," she said.

The Guardian

Ed Miliband is to throw open key Labour decisions to the public – including those on policy and the choice of future leaders – in an attempt to revive the party's links with the community.

The Guardian

Belle and Sebastian: Girls in Peacetime Want to Dance Once considered shorthand for anything twee and indie, Belle and Sebastian throw disco flourishes and dry humour into this ninth studio album.

The Guardian - Music

Gary Barlow, in contrast, performed before the Queen at her Diamond Jubilee concert wearing a scrupulously clean thong, received an OBE for his services to charity in 2012, and once climbed Kilimanjaro with Fearne Cotton for Comic Relief, the latter an image more disturbing than anything a Google of Allin will throw up.

The Guardian - Opinion

If they wanted to throw rotten fruit, they could have done.

The Guardian

The second way is for fielders to throw the ball in on the bounce so that it scuffs on the outfield.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "throw" in a figurative sense, ensure the context is clear to avoid ambiguity. For example, "throw caution to the wind" is a well-known idiom, but other figurative uses should be carefully constructed.

Common error

Avoid using "throw" in highly formal or academic writing where more precise or sophisticated vocabulary is expected. Instead, consider alternatives like "project", "disseminate", or "impart" depending on the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "throw" is as a verb, denoting the action of propelling an object through the air. It also functions as a noun, referring to the act of throwing. As stated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "throw" is a versatile term with diverse applications, ranging from the literal act of propelling an object to more figurative expressions. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. While "throw" is most commonly found in news and media, its specific meaning and register can shift depending on the context. To enhance your writing, consider the nuances of "throw" and explore synonyms to achieve greater precision. For instance, "hurl" implies force, while "pitch" suggests control. Pay attention to the semantic similarities with the alternative phrases mentioned above. By understanding these subtle differences, you can effectively communicate your intended message with clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hurl

Implies a forceful and rapid projection of an object.

pitch

Suggests a more controlled and directed throw, often in a game.

fling

Conveys a casual or effortless throw.

cast

Often used in the context of fishing or casting a vote.

lob

Indicates a high, arcing throw.

send

General term indicating a directed movement.

launch

Suggests a more formal or powerful projection.

project

Similar to launch, but can also refer to projecting an image or idea.

impart

Transferring something intangible.

bung

Informal way of expressing.

FAQs

How can I use "throw" in a sentence?

You can use "throw" to describe the act of propelling something through the air, like "He decided to throw the ball". It can also be used figuratively, such as "They decided to "throw a party"".

What are some alternatives to "throw" when referring to discarding something?

If you mean discarding something, you could use "discard", "dispose of", or "get rid of" instead of "throw".

What's the difference between "throw" and "hurl"?

"Throw" is a general term for propelling something through the air. "Hurl" implies doing so with great force and often anger. Therefore, while all instances of "hurl" could technically be described as "throw", the reverse isn't always true.

Is it correct to say "throw away" or "throw out"?

Both "throw away" and "throw out" are correct and commonly used phrasal verbs that mean to discard something.