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 for my final exams next week. [swot: verb]
Example
She spent the whole weekend swotting up on the history of art. [swotting: gerund or present participle]
study
Example
I need to study more to improve my grades. [study: verb]
Example
He spends hours each day studying for his medical board exams. [studying: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Study is more commonly used than swot in everyday language. Study is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while swot is less common and often associated with British English.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between swot and study?
Both swot and study can be used in formal and informal contexts, but study is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.