togs: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
lowcolloquial
Quick answer
What does “togs” mean?
Clothing, especially casual or sportswear.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Clothing, especially casual or sportswear.
Often refers specifically to swimwear or athletic attire in informal contexts.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, 'togs' is commonly used for clothes or swimwear. In American English, it is less familiar and may be perceived as old-fashioned or chiefly British.
Connotations
In the UK, it implies informality and practicality; in the US, it can sound quaint or niche.
Frequency
More frequent in British English than in American English.
Grammar
How to Use “togs” in a Sentence
put on [one's] togschange into [some] togswear [casual] togsVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “togs” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He togs up quickly for the match.
- They tog themselves in warm layers.
American English
- She togged out for the gym session.
- We need to tog up before heading out.
adjective
British English
- The togged swimmers lined up at the pool.
- He looked properly togged for the hike.
American English
- She was togged in her best casual wear.
- The togged athletes were ready to compete.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used; considered too informal for professional settings.
Academic
Not appropriate in formal writing; limited to informal discussion.
Everyday
Common in casual speech, especially in British English.
Technical
Not applicable; no specific technical usage.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “togs”
- Using 'togs' in formal documents or presentations.
- Assuming it is universally understood in American English without context.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is informal and colloquial, best suited for casual conversations.
Yes, but it is less common and may be perceived as British or old-fashioned; context is key.
It dates back to 18th-century slang, possibly derived from 'togeman', an old term for a coat or garment.
Yes, such as 'in one's togs' meaning dressed, and 'togs off' for undressing, though these are informal.
Clothing, especially casual or sportswear.
Togs: in British English it is pronounced /tɒɡz/, and in American English it is pronounced /tɑːɡz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “in one's togs”
- “togs off”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'togs' as 'dogs' for your clothes – loyal companions you wear daily.
Conceptual Metaphor
Clothing as equipment or gear for activities.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary meaning of 'togs' in British English?