tryst

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'tryst' is correct and usable in written English.
It is a noun that refers to a secret or private meeting, especially between lovers. It can also be used as a verb meaning to arrange or agree to meet at a specific place and time, typically in secret. Example: The couple had a romantic tryst in the park under the moonlight. Example: The two spies planned to tryst at the abandoned warehouse to discuss their next mission.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Judging by the photo that did the rounds on Monday night, Ed Miliband has been caught having a tryst with Russell Brand.

The Guardian

Often, when a public figure is caught furtively leaving someone else's home under the cloak of darkness, it's because a tryst has taken place.

The Guardian

Is Mr Bush's initiative really a tryst with destiny?

The Economist

Instead of having to defend his plans to extend the role of private firms in public services, he begged forgiveness and sped off with God speed for his tryst with destiny.The attacks also eclipsed the election of Iain Duncan Smith as leader of the Conservative opposition.

The Economist

Travel agents report booming business from Bulgarian tourists who want to visit the restaurants, villas and tryst spots frequented by the star-crossed duo.In this section In search of credibility Bad new days Clear as mud Luzhkov v Kremlin Base camps When Boyko met Mehmet Rompuying along Corrections: Auschwitz and Poland's economy ReprintsAbout 1.4m Bulgarians travelled to Turkey last year.

The Economist

Citing the Chosun Ilbo, South Korea's biggest daily, that mentioned but rather ridiculed the gossip, as well as reports circulating among stockbroking houses, Mr Kato suggested she was rumoured to have vanished for a tryst with a divorced man.

The Economist

However, Mr Robb, his milk-drinking image stained by his widely publicised tryst in a New York hotel with a blonde beauty queen, had the good fortune to be running against a Republican who was an even greater turn-off for many voters: Oliver North, star of the Iran-Contra scandal and a convicted felon.Mr Robb's attempt to win a third term next year looks likely to be much harder.

The Economist

Yet, many in Congress fret, she is also flawed, and would represent, as one mutters, a jump from "frying pan to fire".Breaking the tryst with dynastyNo one publicly dares raise the obvious and better alternative: that Congress needs to choose a leader on merit even if that risks splitting the party.

The Economist

A romantic tryst between Bruce Banner/the Hulk (beautifully played once again by Mark Ruffalo) and Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) works surprisingly well, as do the many gags that pop up so casually you almost miss them, including one where a grateful survivor hauled up a cliff face by the burly Captain America (Chris Evans) tries to thank his saviour and proceeds instead to throw up.

The Economist

One, where a state trooper supposedly interrupted the governor enjoying a tryst in a utility closet, provoked Mr Paterson to deny the governor's mansion had a utility closet.

The Economist

The Star was unsure which day his tryst with Ms Coghlan was alleged to have occurred.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the formality of your writing; "tryst" leans towards a more literary or historical tone, so it might not be suitable for all contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "tryst" in purely formal business contexts. Its strong association with romance and secrecy can sound out of place if not used carefully.

Linguistic Context

"Tryst" primarily functions as a noun referring to a private meeting, especially between lovers, or as a verb meaning to arrange such a meeting. Ludwig confirms its proper usage in various contexts. Example: "a romantic tryst between Bruce Banner/the Hulk and Black Widow".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Encyclopedias

9%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Social Media

3%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tryst" is a grammatically sound word, functioning as both a noun and a verb, primarily used to describe a secret or private meeting, especially one between lovers. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability. While predominantly found in news and media sources, it also appears in encyclopedias and more formal contexts. Be mindful of its connotations of secrecy and romance, ensuring its appropriate use based on the desired tone and context. Alternatives like "secret rendezvous" or "clandestine meeting" may be suitable depending on the specific nuances you wish to convey. The word "tryst" is more useful to add intrigue and secrecy to your writings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

secret rendezvous

Emphasizes the clandestine aspect of the meeting.

private assignation

Highlights the prearranged and often romantic nature.

clandestine meeting

Focuses on the hidden or secretive nature of the gathering.

romantic encounter

Specifically suggests a meeting with romantic intentions.

secret liaison

Implies an illicit or forbidden meeting.

arranged date

Neutral alternative suggesting a scheduled meeting.

prearranged meeting

Simply highlights that a meeting was scheduled beforehand.

secret rendezvous point

Specifies the agreed location to meet.

private consultation

Describes a confidential meeting usually for professional reasons.

confidential appointment

Suggests a meeting where sensitive information is discussed.

FAQs

How to use "tryst" in a sentence?

You can use "tryst" to describe a secret meeting, especially between lovers, or as a verb to indicate arranging such a meeting. For instance, "They had a secret tryst by the lake" or "The spies trysted at midnight."

What can I say instead of "tryst"?

You can use alternatives like "secret rendezvous", "private assignation", or "clandestine meeting" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "tryst" or "meeting"?

"Tryst" is a specific type of "meeting", implying secrecy and often romance. "Meeting" is a general term. Use "tryst" when you want to emphasize the secretive or romantic nature of the meeting.

What's the difference between "tryst" and "date"?

While both involve planned meetings, "tryst" suggests a clandestine or secretive nature, whereas "date" typically implies a more open and socially acceptable romantic meeting.