as swift as the wind

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as swift as the wind" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that moves very quickly. Example: "The athlete ran as swift as the wind, leaving his competitors far behind."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Literature

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Lithe, slender and as swift as the wind, ferociously competitive, with the strength in his thighs and the anticipation to ride the scything tackles of the time, alert to everything around him and delving into a bottomless bag of technical and tactical tricks, he treated football as, above all, an excuse for exercising creativity.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

But as the race unfolded, the Kiwis seemed as swift as the Italians, if not faster.

The New York Times - Sports

When it came, the assault on earnings was almost as swift as the weasel's strike.

The Guardian

Politicians were as swift as the golfers to post messages about Palmer.

Los Angeles Times

The authorities' response was as swift as it was predictable: the boys were detained and tortured.

The New Yorker

The Barclays response was as swift as it was brutal.

The Guardian

The results have been as swift as they have been staggering.

The New York Times - Sports

The decline has been as swift as it was inarguable.

BBC

The Senate's fall was as swift as it was surprising.

The New York Times

Indeed, the band's decline was as swift as its rise.

The Guardian - Music

Neither Johnson nor Daniel Agger was as swift as Valencia.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "as swift as the wind" to vividly describe someone or something moving with great speed and agility. This simile is particularly effective in narrative writing or descriptive passages.

Common error

Avoid using "as swift as the wind" in formal or technical writing where literal, measurable speed is more appropriate. Opt for precise numerical descriptions instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as swift as the wind" functions primarily as a simile, used to create a vivid comparison. It describes something's speed by likening it to the wind. Ludwig’s examples show its usage in describing athletic prowess or rapid changes.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

30%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as swift as the wind" is a simile used to vividly describe great speed, as validated by Ludwig. While grammatically correct and understandable, it is relatively rare and more suited for descriptive or narrative contexts than formal or technical ones. Ludwig's examples and source analysis suggest its usage is most commonly found in news, media, and sports contexts, providing an easily grasped comparison to express agility and quickness. Alternatives like "quick as lightning" or "nimble as a deer" may be more appropriate depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Quick as lightning

Emphasizes instantaneous speed through a comparison to a sudden natural phenomenon.

Fast as greased lightning

Amplifies the speed aspect with an additional element of slickness and ease.

Rapid as a coursing river

Relates to the continuous and forceful movement of a large body of water.

Nimble as a deer

Highlights agility and gracefulness in addition to speed.

Fleet-footed like a gazelle

Focuses on the light and quick movement associated with the gazelle.

Swift like an arrow

Suggests directness and precision in movement.

Moving at breakneck speed

Implies a high, almost dangerous velocity.

With the velocity of a bullet

Compares speed to a projectile known for its extreme velocity.

Expeditious as a rocket

Uses a modern comparison emphasizing rapid acceleration and movement.

At warp speed

A science fiction reference to extremely high speeds.

FAQs

How can I use "as swift as the wind" in a sentence?

This phrase is a simile used to describe something moving very quickly. For example, "The cheetah ran "as swift as the wind" across the savanna."

What are some alternatives to "as swift as the wind"?

Alternatives include "quick as lightning", "fast as greased lightning", or "nimble as a deer", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "as swift as the wind" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "as swift as the wind" is often more suitable for descriptive or narrative writing. Formal contexts may benefit from more precise or technical language.

What does "as swift as the wind" emphasize beyond just speed?

The phrase often suggests not only speed but also an element of natural, unforced agility or grace. It evokes an image of effortless movement.