a sweeping motion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sweeping motion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a broad, fluid movement, often in the context of gestures or actions. Example: "She made a sweeping motion with her arm to indicate the vast landscape before her."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

Eyewitnesses told how the attacker lashed out against victims in a sweeping motion.

The Guardian

"Christmas just keeps moving up," she said, making a sweeping motion to indicate the spread of merchandise in the store.

The New York Times

If you find water becoming extremely hot (or cold), exit tub promptly while using a sweeping motion with one arm to push shower curtain aside.

The New Yorker

No. Personally, I think the idea of accounting for past educational shortcomings in a sweeping motion cancels out the good it tries to achieve.

The Guardian

In a widely viewed video, Inspector Bologna can be seen striding up to a crowd penned behind orange mesh netting, discharging his pepper-spray canister with a sweeping motion, and walking away.

The New York Times

"This is my kingdom, I live here," Mr. Colombo said as he made a sweeping motion toward the large vegetable garden and an oversized shed holding his tools, woodpile and a chicken coop.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

BUBBLE SCREEN A short pass thrown with a long, sweeping motion, like the waving of a plastic wand filled with a soapy solution on a warm summer's day.

The New York Times - Sports

He reaches for a mango and with a quick sweeping motion throws the fruit out to the beach.

The Guardian - Books

The majority of shoppers find it easier to spread jam, or their preferred filling, on a straighter shape with a single sweeping motion.

Independent

He continued: "The majority of shoppers find it easier to spread jam, or their preferred filling, on a straighter shape with a single sweeping motion.

Independent

The reason that Tesco provides for its decision is in itself striking: the boss of the company, one Harry Jones, announced that it is the "spreadability" factor that has killed the kink, insisting that "the majority of shoppers find it easier to spread jam, or their preferred filling, on a straighter shape with a single sweeping motion".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "a sweeping motion" with verbs that specify the action being performed, such as "spraying," "gesturing," or "waving," to provide a clearer picture of the movement.

Common error

Avoid using "a sweeping motion" to describe actions that are inherently static or lack movement. It's inappropriate to say "a sweeping motion of standing still". Make sure there is an actual movement associated with the phrase.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a sweeping motion" is to act as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a preposition or verb. As shown by Ludwig, it describes the manner in which an action is performed, adding detail and vividness to the description. The Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

35%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a sweeping motion" is a grammatically correct and common noun phrase used to describe a broad, continuous movement or gesture. As Ludwig AI confirms, its common usage spans across various contexts, including news, instructional guides, and scientific reports. While versatile, it is important to use it accurately, ensuring that it describes actions that involve actual movement. Alternatives such as "a broad gesture" or "a flowing movement" can be considered depending on the specific context. The key is to ensure the phrase accurately and vividly portrays the action being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a broad gesture

Focuses on the communicative aspect of the motion, emphasizing its wide scope and expressiveness.

a wide arc

Highlights the curved path of the movement, suitable when describing a physical trajectory.

a continuous sweep

Emphasizes the uninterrupted nature of the movement, useful when describing actions performed without pause.

a flowing movement

Stresses the smooth and graceful quality of the motion, appropriate for dance or artistic contexts.

a rapid wave

Implies a quick and expansive gesture, often used to signal or indicate something.

a circular sweep

Specifies the shape of the motion, indicating a movement that traces a circle or curve.

an encompassing gesture

Highlights the inclusiveness of the motion, suggesting it covers a wide area or range.

a comprehensive gesture

Stresses the thoroughness and completeness of the motion in conveying information or covering an area.

a grandiose flourish

Adds a dramatic and elaborate quality to the motion, suitable for theatrical or performative contexts.

a panoptic movement

Describes a motion that takes in a wide or comprehensive view, suggesting thoroughness or surveillance.

FAQs

How can I use "a sweeping motion" in a sentence?

You can use "a sweeping motion" to describe a broad, continuous movement, such as "She cleared the table with "a sweeping motion"" or "He gestured towards the landscape with "a sweeping motion"".

What are some alternatives to "a sweeping motion"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a broad gesture", "a wide arc", or "a flowing movement".

Is it correct to use "a sweeping motion" to describe a static action?

No, it is not appropriate. "A sweeping motion" implies movement, so it should not be used with static actions. For example, saying "a sweeping motion of standing still" is incorrect.

What is the difference between "a sweeping motion" and "a circular motion"?

"A sweeping motion" describes a broad, continuous movement, while "a circular motion" specifically refers to a movement that follows a circular path. The former is more general, while the latter is more specific.