a flick

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a flick" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a quick or light movement, often associated with the action of flicking something or a brief moment of attention. Example: "With a flick of her wrist, she sent the paper airplane soaring across the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I'll have a flick through.

The New York Times - Sports

Care to take in a flick?

The New York Times - Science

A flick of the foot.

The New York Times - Sports

I invented the Purdey with a flick.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A flick of their wireless switches fixed that.

The New York Times - Health

A flick of mascara, a gap-revealing smile … and done.

The New York Times

A flick of the switch would turn off the power.

The Economist

A little tap, a flick of my wrist".

The New York Times - Arts

Alternatively, they are a long iron and a flick.

The New Yorker

He said: "Alexandra, it's like a flick on the wrist.

The New York Times - Sports

She finished with a flick into the top right corner.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing precise, rapid movements, use "a flick" to effectively convey both the speed and lightness of the action.

Common error

Avoid using "a flick" when describing actions requiring sustained force or deliberate intent. It best suits fleeting, light motions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a flick" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used to describe a quick, light movement or action. It can also function adjectivally, modifying another noun to specify the type of motion involved. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, demonstrating its versatility across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

10%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a flick" is a versatile and common noun phrase used to describe quick, light movements. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral in register, leaning towards informal, its primary function is to convey speed and ease. When writing, use "a flick" to describe precise, rapid motions, but avoid it for actions requiring sustained force. Consider alternatives like "a tap" or "a swipe" depending on the specific motion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a tap

Focuses on a light touch or gentle contact, altering the implication of a sweeping movement.

a flip

Suggests a rotational movement, varying from a linear, quick motion.

a touch

Emphasizes contact more than motion, reducing the sense of rapid movement.

a nudge

Implies a gentle push, differing from the swiftness of a flick.

a swipe

Connotes a broader, sliding movement rather than a precise flick.

a stroke

Signifies a smoother, more extended motion, unlike a quick flick.

a glance

Refers to a brief look, changing the action from physical to visual.

a twitch

Implies an involuntary, small movement, altering the deliberate nature of a flick.

a hint

Suggests a subtle indication, transforming a physical action into an indirect suggestion.

a glimmer

Refers to a brief flash of light, shifting the context from action to visual phenomenon.

FAQs

How can I use "a flick" in a sentence?

Use "a flick" to describe a swift, light motion, as in "With "a flick" of the wrist, she opened the lighter".

What can I say instead of "a flick"?

Alternatives include "a tap", "a flip", or "a swipe", depending on the specific context and the type of motion you want to convey.

Is "a flick" appropriate for formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "a flick" is more suited for informal or descriptive writing. In formal contexts, consider using more precise terms like "a swift movement" or "a light touch".

What does "a flick of the wrist" mean?

"A flick of the wrist" refers to a quick, light, and often effortless movement done with the wrist. It suggests ease and speed in performing an action.