Word
lug
US/ˈɫəɡ/
UK/lˈʌɡ/
Definition
v. to carry or pull something heavy with a lot of effort. You use this when you are struggling to move a big bag or a piece of furniture.
v. to pull or carry a heavy or bulky object with considerable effort. Often implies a sense of physical strain or the awkwardness of the item being moved.
Examples
“I had to lug my heavy suitcase up three flights of stairs.”
“After the car broke down, we had to lug our camping gear two miles to the nearest site.”
“Despite the availability of digital alternatives, many students still lug massive physical textbooks across campus, seemingly indifferent to the ergonomic strain on their backs.”
Examples
simple
“I had to lug my heavy suitcase up three flights of stairs.”
contextual
“After the car broke down, we had to lug our camping gear two miles to the nearest site.”
complex
“Despite the availability of digital alternatives, many students still lug massive physical textbooks across campus, seemingly indifferent to the ergonomic strain on their backs.”
Usage
The verb is transitive and requires a direct object, usually a heavy physical item.
Real-World Examples
“Today, many Americans pepper their speech with Yiddish words like “schlep,” to lug something; or “schmooze,” to chat and work the room.” “Guys like Gregory Peck and I don't want a big lug like you towering over us.” Word family
VERB
NOUN
Domains
- 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.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL 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: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/lug