Shlep vs. Schlep — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 28, 2024
"Shlep" and "schlep" refer to the same concept of carrying something heavy or laboriously moving; "schlep" is the more common spelling in American English.
Difference Between Shlep and Schlep
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Key Differences
"Shlep" is occasionally used as an alternative spelling for "schlep," especially in informal contexts. Whereas "schlep" is widely recognized and used in American English, reflecting its Yiddish origins meaning to drag or haul laboriously.
Both "shlep" and "schlep" convey a sense of inconvenience or effort, typically involving physical movement. On the other hand, "schlep" is more likely to be understood and is standard in dictionaries, confirming its acceptance in formal writing.
In colloquial speech, someone might say they need to "shlep" their groceries across a parking lot. Whereas, using "schlep" in the same context might come across as slightly more familiar or correct to the listener, given its prevalence.
Cultural references using these terms often opt for "schlep," due to its authenticity and recognition. Meanwhile, "shlep" might appear in more casual, perhaps humorous contexts, emphasizing a laid-back approach to language.
In digital communication, such as text messaging or emails among friends, "shlep" could appear as a playful variant. Conversely, "schlep" would be more appropriate in professional or formal communication, maintaining standard language practices.
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Comparison Chart
Spelling Variants
Less common variant
More common and standard
Recognition
Lower
Higher
Usage Context
Informal, casual
Formal and informal
Dictionary Listings
Rarely listed
Commonly listed
Cultural Perception
Playful, informal
Recognized, standard
Compare with Definitions
Shlep
Informal use to describe tedious travel.
We shlepped all the way across the state for the concert.
Schlep
To carry or haul something cumbersome and heavy.
She schlepped her suitcase up three flights of stairs.
Shlep
To move slowly or with effort.
We shlepped around the mall for hours looking for the right shoes.
Schlep
To move oneself or something else slowly and with effort.
After the long hike, he schlepped back to the car exhausted.
Shlep
To lug or drag oneself or an object.
I shlepped myself out of bed early to catch the sunrise.
Schlep
To transport things in a laborious manner.
They had to schlep their equipment over muddy fields.
Shlep
To carry something heavy or with difficulty.
I had to shlep the old television to the curb for garbage day.
Schlep
Commonly used to describe a boring or exhausting journey.
It’s a real schlep to drive through downtown during rush hour.
Shlep
To bring or haul laboriously.
He shlepped all his books from the car up to his new apartment.
Schlep
To drag or pull with difficulty.
He schlepped the chair across the room to add another seat to the table.
Shlep
Variant of schlep.
Schlep
To carry clumsily or with difficulty; lug
Schlepped a shopping bag around town.
Shlep
Alternative form of schlep
Schlep
To move slowly or laboriously
Schlepped around with the twins in a stroller.
Shlep
Alternative form of schlep
Schlep
An arduous journey.
Shlep
Walk or tramp about
Schlep
A clumsy or stupid person.
Shlep
Pull along heavily, like a heavy load against a resistance;
Can you shlep this bag of potatoes upstairs?
She pulled along a large trunk
Schlep
To carry, drag, or lug.
I'm exhausted after schlepping those packages around all day.
Schlep
To go, as on an errand; to carry out a task.
I schlepped down to the store for some milk.
Schlep
To act in a slovenly, lazy, or sloppy manner.
I just schlepped around the house on Sunday.
Schlep
(informal) A long or burdensome journey.
Sure you can go across town to get that, but it'd be a schlep.
Schlep
(informal) A boring person, a drag; a good-for-nothing person.
Schlep
(informal) A sloppy or slovenly person.
Schlep
(informal) A “pull” or influence.
He must have had a lot of schlep to get such good seats.
Schlep
Pull along heavily, like a heavy load against a resistance;
Can you shlep this bag of potatoes upstairs?
She pulled along a large trunk
Common Curiosities
Does "schlep" only refer to physical movement?
Primarily, but it can also metaphorically describe participating in tedious activities.
Can "schlep" be used in formal writing?
Yes, "schlep" can be appropriately used in formal writing, although it's a casual term.
What is the origin of "schlep"?
"Schlep" originates from the Yiddish language, where it means to drag or haul.
Are there contexts where "shlep" should not be used?
In formal or professional communication, it's better to use the more recognized "schlep."
Can "schlep" refer to dragging oneself?
Yes, it can describe moving oneself slowly and with effort.
Is "shlep" a misspelling of "schlep"?
No, "shlep" is an alternative spelling, though less common than "schlep."
What synonyms can be used in place of "schlep"?
Haul, lug, drag are all synonyms for "schlep."
How do you pronounce "schlep"?
"Schlep" is pronounced as /ʃlɛp/.
Is "schlep" considered slang?
It's informal but recognized enough to be used widely beyond slang.
How often is "shlep" used compared to "schlep"?
"Schlep" is much more commonly used than "shlep."
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
