What does “Schvitz” mean?
The phrase "Schvitz" means 'sweating.' When someone uses "Schvitz", they are referring to the act of perspiring heavily. It is a slang term often used in casual conversations or to describe intense physical activity or hot weather.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
I've been working out for an hour and I'm starting to schvitz.
Example
It's so hot in here, I can feel myself starting to schvitz.
Example
After running a marathon, I was schvitzing like crazy.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Describing physical exertion or heat
I've been working out for an hour and I'm starting to schvitz.
It's so hot in here, I can feel myself starting to schvitz.
- 2Expressing intense sweating
After running a marathon, I was schvitzing like crazy.
The humidity was so high that I was schvitzing even without moving.
- 3Discussing the effects of heat or nervousness
I was so nervous before the presentation that I started to schvitz.
The sauna was so hot that everyone was schvitzing within minutes.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The term "schvitz" originated from Yiddish, a language spoken by Ashkenazi Jews. It was brought to the United States by Jewish immigrants and became popular in New York City, particularly in the Jewish community.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
While "schvitz" is often used in a sentence to describe sweating, it can also be used on its own to convey the act of sweating. For example, if someone asks how your workout went, you might respond with "Schvitzed like crazy!" to indicate that you sweated a lot.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "schvitz" is not offensive. It is a slang term used to describe sweating.
Audience for the phrase
The term "schvitz" is commonly used in New York, particularly among the Jewish community. However, it can be understood and used by anyone familiar with Yiddish slang or those who have been exposed to New York culture.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The term "schvitz" is specific to the New York region, where it originated and is most commonly used. It may not be as widely understood or used in other English-speaking regions.