sore throat: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Everyday, medical
Quick answer
What does “sore throat” mean?
A condition in which the throat feels painful, dry, or scratchy, often due to inflammation caused by infection or irritation.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A condition in which the throat feels painful, dry, or scratchy, often due to inflammation caused by infection or irritation.
May refer to a symptom of illness (e.g., cold, flu, strep throat) or result from environmental factors like dry air, shouting, or smoke.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is largely identical. 'Sore throat' is the standard term in both varieties. 'Strep throat' (from streptococcus) is a common specific diagnosis in US medical contexts.
Connotations
Neutral in both; perceived as a common, mild-to-moderate ailment.
Frequency
Extremely high and equivalent frequency in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “sore throat” in a Sentence
[Subject] have/has a sore throat.[Subject] complain of a sore throat.[Subject] wake up with a sore throat.A sore throat developed overnight.This is for a sore throat.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “sore throat” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- She's off work with a nasty sore throat.
- A cup of tea is good for a sore throat.
- The sore throat kept him from singing.
American English
- He went to the clinic for his sore throat.
- Sore throat was the main symptom.
- Try this lozenge for your sore throat.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
"I'm calling in sick today; I've lost my voice from a sore throat."
Academic
"Pharyngitis, commonly presenting as a sore throat, is a frequent reason for primary care visits."
Everyday
"I think I'm coming down with something—I've got a bit of a sore throat."
Technical
"The patient presents with acute onset of odynophagia and a diffusely erythematous oropharynx."
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “sore throat”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “sore throat”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “sore throat”
- Using uncountably: *'I have sore throat' (correct: 'a sore throat').
- Confusing with 'neck pain'.
- Spelling as one word: *'sorethroat'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is countable. You must use an article: 'a sore throat'.
'Sore throat' is the general symptom. 'Strep throat' is a specific diagnosis for a sore throat caused by Streptococcus bacteria, often more severe and requiring antibiotics.
Yes, it is appropriate in a professional context to explain absence: 'I am unwell with a sore throat and fever and will not be in the office today.'
Common suggestions include gargling warm salt water, drinking honey and lemon in warm water, using throat lozenges, staying hydrated, and using a humidifier.
A condition in which the throat feels painful, dry, or scratchy, often due to inflammation caused by infection or irritation.
Sore throat is usually everyday, medical in register.
Sore throat: in British English it is pronounced /ˌsɔː ˈθrəʊt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌsɔːr ˈθroʊt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Frog in one's throat (for hoarseness, not pain)”
- “A lump in one's throat (for emotional constriction)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a SAW (sore) cutting your THROAT. The pain reminds you of the meaning.
Conceptual Metaphor
HEALTH IS INTEGRITY / ILLNESS IS DAMAGE (A 'sore' is a damaged, painful spot on the body).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is a common, specific bacterial cause of a severe sore throat?