weather-beaten

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "weather-beaten" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that has been worn or damaged by exposure to harsh weather conditions, often referring to people or objects that show signs of wear due to the elements. Example: "The old barn stood proudly, its weather-beaten wood telling stories of countless storms and sunny days."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

He is now a weather-beaten 54.

The New York Times

The man has a weather-beaten face like a farmer.

Independent

The tall, weather-beaten man's response is pure Sanibel: "Yup!

The New York Times - Travel

A rangy old man in a weather-beaten green vest walked over.

The New Yorker

The bass-baritone James Morris's voice is weather-beaten these days.

The New York Times - Arts

In November Evening (1931 34), for example, weather-beaten buildings convey a mood of stark realism.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Vinyl siding has been applied to weather-beaten cottages and clapboard houses.

The New York Times

Sean has a muscular build and knuckles so weather-beaten they look scarred.

The New York Times - Travel

The dreariness outside provided a contrast, and the coffee warmed these exotic but weather-beaten strangers.

The New Yorker

He carried the clippings, which eventually filled twelve notebooks, in a weather-beaten suitcase.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Its Cowshed Spa and relaxation lounge are perfect if you're feeling a little weather beaten.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "weather-beaten" to vividly describe the effects of long-term exposure to the elements, adding depth and imagery to your writing. For instance, describe a "weather-beaten" face to convey a life lived outdoors or a "weather-beaten" building to evoke a sense of history and resilience.

Common error

Avoid using "weather-beaten" metaphorically when a simpler adjective like "worn" or "tired" would be more appropriate. Overusing the term can dilute its impact and make your writing sound unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "weather-beaten" functions primarily as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe their condition as affected by exposure to the elements. As confirmed by Ludwig, it vividly portrays the effects of harsh weather on various subjects, from faces to buildings.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

84%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Science

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adjective "weather-beaten" is a powerful descriptor for anything showing the effects of prolonged exposure to the elements. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and suggests alternatives like "weathered" or "worn by the elements". It's most commonly found in news and media, adding vivid imagery and emotional depth. While versatile, overuse should be avoided to maintain its impact. By following best practices and avoiding common errors, writers can effectively harness the descriptive power of "weather-beaten".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

weathered

A more general term for being affected by the weather, without necessarily implying damage.

worn by the elements

Emphasizes the role of natural forces in causing wear and tear.

battered by the elements

Highlights the forceful and damaging impact of the weather.

ravaged by weather

Focuses on the destructive power of the weather.

seasoned

Suggests that something has been improved or matured by exposure to the weather.

sun-baked

Specifies damage caused by exposure to the sun.

wind-battered

Specifies damage caused by exposure to the wind.

storm-tossed

Implies damage from being tossed or moved around during a storm.

time-worn

Focuses on the effects of time, which may or may not include weather-related damage.

careworn

Describes a person whose face shows the effects of worry or stress.

FAQs

How can I use "weather-beaten" in a sentence?

"Weather-beaten" is typically used to describe something that has been worn or damaged by exposure to the weather. For example, "The old sailor had a "weathered face"" or "The "weathered shack" stood alone on the beach".

What are some synonyms for "weather-beaten"?

Alternatives to "weather-beaten" include "weathered", "weatherworn", and "worn by the elements". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "weather-beaten" to describe a person's emotional state?

While "weather-beaten" primarily describes physical appearance, it can be used metaphorically to suggest that someone has been emotionally affected by difficult experiences. However, using words like "resilient", "hardened", or "scarred" might be more direct and impactful.

What is the difference between "weathered" and "weather-beaten"?

Both terms describe something affected by the weather, but "weather-beaten" implies a greater degree of damage or wear. "Weathered" can simply mean that something has been exposed to the elements, whereas "weather-beaten" suggests it has been significantly impacted by them.