tote
C1Informal for the verb; the noun is common/neutral.
Definition
Meaning
to carry or haul, especially a heavy or bulky object.
A large, strong bag, typically used for carrying shopping or personal items. Also used in finance/informal betting (parimutuel totalizator).
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The verb sense often implies a temporary, heavy, or awkward load, and can be synonymous with 'lug'. The noun sense is now far more common than the verb.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
As a noun ('bag'), it is common in both, but arguably more common in AmE marketing (e.g., 'tote bag'). The verb is used similarly but slightly more in AmE.
Connotations
The verb can sound slightly informal or 'folksy' (AmE). The noun is neutral, a standard term for a type of bag.
Frequency
The noun is high-frequency, especially in retail contexts. The verb is medium-to-low frequency.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
SBJ + tote + OBJ (She toted the suitcase.)SBJ + tote + OBJ + around/about (He totes his laptop everywhere.)Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “tote that barge, lift that bale (from a song)”
- “tote up (to calculate a total)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare; maybe in logistics ('tote bins').
Academic
Very rare.
Everyday
Common for the noun ('bag'); verb used conversationally.
Technical
In manufacturing/warehousing: 'tote' as a standardized container.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- Can you help me tote these boxes to the car boot?
- He's always toting that massive rucksack around.
American English
- I had to tote three grocery bags up the stairs.
- She toted her toddler on her hip while shopping.
adverb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adjective
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
Examples
By CEFR Level
- This is my new tote. It is a big bag.
- I can tote my books.
- She bought a reusable tote bag for the market.
- He had to tote the heavy equipment from the van.
- The stylish canvas tote has become a popular alternative to plastic bags.
- Volunteers were asked to tote supplies to the remote campsite.
- The designer's latest collection features an oversized tote in ethically sourced leather.
- Journalists had to tote their broadcasting gear through the crowded streets to get to the press conference.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a NOTE written on a heavy TOTE bag you have to carry.
Conceptual Metaphor
CARRYING IS BURDEN / POSSESSION IS MOBILITY
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Не переводить глагол 'tote' как 'тащить' в негативном смысле (тащить украденное). Он нейтрален. Существительное 'tote' — это не просто 'сумка', а обычно большая, простая сумка без отделений, часто из ткани.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing 'tote' (carry) with 'tot' (small child) or 'tot up' (calculate).
- Using the verb in formal writing.
- Spelling: 'totle', 'toat'.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'tote' most commonly used today?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The verb 'tote' is informal. The noun 'tote' (bag) is neutral and standard.
A tote is typically larger, more open, and less structured than a handbag, often used for shopping or carrying multiple items.
Yes, but in the phrasal verb 'tote up' (informal BrE), as in 'Let me tote up the bill.' The standalone verb 'tote' does not mean calculate.
Etymologically, no. 'Tote' (carry) origin is uncertain. 'Tote' in betting ('totalizator') is a shortening of 'total'.
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