Word
chafing
Phoneticschaf·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈtʃeɪfɪŋ/
UK/tʃˈeɪfɪŋ/
Uncountable noun
Definition
n. sore, red skin caused by skin or clothes rubbing against you again and again.
n. skin irritation or soreness caused by repeated friction, heat, or moisture, often where skin touches skin or clothing.
Examples
“Tight shoes cause painful chafing on long walks.”
“The marathon runner applies anti-chafe balm to prevent chafing during the race in hot weather.”
“Persistent chafing under the backpack straps forced her to adjust the fit and add padding before the multi-day hike through humid forest.”
Examples
simple
“Tight shoes cause painful chafing on long walks.”
contextual
“The marathon runner applies anti-chafe balm to prevent chafing during the race in hot weather.”
complex
“Persistent chafing under the backpack straps forced her to adjust the fit and add padding before the multi-day hike through humid forest.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “chafing” in context.
Verb
01. chafing develops
“Chafing develops quickly when wet clothes rub the skin.”
noun + verb
02. prevent chafing
“Wear moisture-wicking shorts to prevent chafing on hot days.”
verb + noun
03. reduce chafing
“Applying petroleum jelly can reduce chafing during a race.”
verb + noun
04. soothe chafing
“A cool shower and aloe gel will soothe chafing quickly.”
verb + noun
Adjective
05. mild chafing
“He had mild chafing after his first long walk in shorts.”
adj + noun
06. painful chafing
“Tight jeans caused painful chafing on her inner thighs.”
adj + noun
07. severe chafing
“The marathon runner developed severe chafing after mile twenty.”
adj + noun
Noun
08. risk of chafing
“Sweat and loose clothing increase the risk of chafing.”
noun + prep + noun
09. signs of chafing
“Redness and burning are early signs of chafing.”
noun + prep + noun
10. apply cream to prevent chafing
“Apply anti-chafe cream to prevent chafing before the marathon.”
11. prevent chafing during long runs
“She wears compression shorts to prevent chafing during long runs.”
12. reduce risk of chafing
“Stay dry and wear fitted clothes to reduce risk of chafing.”
Real-World Examples
“Hot weather can equal some awkwardly painful chafing.” Related words
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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