What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
swot
Example
I need to swot up on my history notes before the final exam. [swot: verb]
Example
She spent the entire night swotting for her biology test. [swotting: gerund or present participle]
cram
Example
I have to cram for my math test tomorrow since I didn't study earlier. [cram: verb]
Example
He crammed all the vocabulary words into his head before the language exam. [cramming: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cramming is more commonly used than swotting in everyday language, especially among students who tend to leave studying until the last minute. Swotting is less common and may be more associated with British English.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between swot and cram?
Both swotting and cramming are informal terms and are not typically used in formal contexts. However, swotting may be considered slightly more formal than cramming due to its association with British English.
