Sweater: Definition, Synonyms, and Usage
Sweater – Definition and Part of Speech
A sweater is a knitted garment typically worn on the upper body and intended to provide warmth. It often features long sleeves and can have various styles or patterns. In terms of its part of speech, a sweater functions as a noun. The term “sweater” generally remains unchanged in form whether referring singularly or plurally (i.e., one sweater vs. several sweaters), though colloquially some might refer to multiple pieces as “sweaters.”
Core Synonyms
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pullover | A type of sweater without a button or zipper front. | “She wore her favorite wool pullover on the chilly morning.” | Casual, Informal |
| Jumper | British term for what Americans call a pullover. | “He picked out a cozy cashmere jumper from the boutique.” | Formal/Casual (British English) |
| Cardigan | An open-front sweater that usually buttons up or zips. | “The cardigan was her go-to layering piece during fall.” | Casual/Informal |
| Hoodie | A sweater with a hood, often featuring a front pocket. | “He grabbed his favorite hoodie before heading out.” | Informal/Casual |
Usage Notes
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Pullover: This term is useful in contexts where distinguishing the style of the garment is essential, particularly in casual or informal discussions about fashion.
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Jumper: In British English, “jumper” refers to what Americans call a pullover. It’s important for writers and speakers who communicate with an international audience to be aware of these differences.
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Cardigan: Cardigans are ideal when discussing outerwear options that allow versatility due to their open fronts; they fit well in both casual and slightly more formal settings, like creative writing or fashion blogs.
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Hoodie: This synonym is best used in contexts that emphasize modern streetwear. Hoodies often carry connotations of comfort and youth culture.
Common Pitfalls
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Pullover vs. Jumper: One common confusion arises from the regional difference between “pullover” (commonly used in American English) and “jumper” (commonly used in British English). Knowing your audience’s dialect can prevent misunderstandings.
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Cardigan vs. Pullover: While all cardigans are pullovers, not all pullovers are cardigans due to the open-front style of cardigans. This distinction is essential for clarity in fashion discussions.
Final Recap
The term “sweater” encompasses various styles such as pullovers, jumpers (in British English), cardigans, and hoodies, each with their distinct features. Understanding these synonyms can enhance your vocabulary, making communication about clothing more precise whether you’re writing an academic paper on fashion, crafting a business email, or simply chatting with friends.
Encourage yourself to practice using these terms in context by writing sentences or incorporating them into conversations. This will help reinforce the nuances and ensure confident application across different scenarios.