dart forward

USAGE SUMMARY

"dart forward" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a quick, sudden movement towards a direction. An example: "The cat darted forward to catch the mouse." Alternative expressions include "dash forward" and "lunge forward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Two photographers dart forward as she steps into her limo.

The New Yorker

Drawing breath, Munster probed with kicks before Tommy O'Donnell found some space to dart forward from deep.

The Guardian - Sport

Another dog seated on its hind legs observes him, frustrated and tempted to dart forward as its taut musculature indicates.

The New York Times - Arts

In the late morning, one American infantryman offered sticks of gum to a few of the assembled children, and it was several minutes before the children overcame their fear sufficiently to dart forward for the gift.

The New Yorker

I would break into front crawl but as soon as I got to them, they would dart forward and leave me behind again.

BBC

The win was confirmed when replacement prop Andrews picked off a loose pass on the halfway line to dart forward and find the supporting Warburton, who fed Cuthbert to cross in the corner before Parks converted for his 60th point in three Heineken Cup games this term.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Osvaldo darted forward but Reid, helping out his partner, cleared the danger.

Independent

Justice lifted his right foot, his timing mechanism, and it darted forward, like a cobra's head, his bat following.

The New York Times - Sports

Sturridge looked sharp and lively, picking out Vardy in the penalty area, then darting forward after the return pass.

The Guardian - Sport

Black-headed gulls and herring gulls saunter behind them, occasionally darting forward to snatch up their scraps.

The Guardian

While Mertesacker is commanding and imposing, Koscielny is quick, sharp, always alert to danger and darting forward to steal the ball away from the forwards.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dart forward" to depict a sudden, rapid movement in a specific direction. This phrase works well to add vividness to your descriptions, especially in narrative or descriptive writing.

Common error

Avoid using "dart forward" when describing gradual or continuous movement. This phrase emphasizes a burst of speed and is inappropriate for situations involving slow, steady progress.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dart forward" primarily functions as a verb phrase, used to describe a sudden and rapid movement in a forward direction. Ludwig's examples show its common usage in describing both physical actions and more figurative advances.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "dart forward" is a verb phrase used to illustrate a rapid, sudden movement ahead. It functions to add energy and vividness to descriptions, most commonly found in news and media contexts. While grammatically correct and acceptable, its frequency is relatively uncommon. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is well-regarded, suggesting confidence in its consistent application. When writing, it’s best to employ "dart forward" when precision of movement and clarity are desired, as described in Ludwig's examples. Related alternatives include "shoot ahead", "lunge forward" and "dash ahead".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shoot ahead

Implies a rapid and direct movement, often used in competitive situations.

dash ahead

Indicates a quick, energetic movement to get in front of others.

lunge forward

Suggests a forceful and abrupt movement, frequently with aggressive intent.

bolt forward

Suggests a rapid and often unexpected movement, like an animal escaping.

spring forward

Suggests a sudden, resilient movement, often implying renewed energy.

charge ahead

Implies a determined and forceful advance, often against opposition.

surge forward

Implies a powerful, collective movement, usually in a crowd or large group.

leap forward

Indicates a jump ahead, bypassing intermediate steps or stages.

push forward

Suggests an effortful movement, often involving resistance or obstacles.

move swiftly ahead

Implies a progress with quickness and efficiency.

FAQs

How can I use "dart forward" in a sentence?

Use "dart forward" to describe a sudden and quick movement in a forward direction. For example: "The cat darted forward to catch the mouse."

What are some alternatives to "dart forward"?

You can use alternatives like "shoot ahead", "lunge forward", or "dash ahead" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Which is more appropriate, "dart forward" or "move forward"?

"Dart forward" implies a sudden and rapid movement, while "move forward" suggests a more general and possibly slower progress. The choice depends on the speed and intensity of the action you are describing.

What is the difference between "dart forward" and "charge forward"?

"Dart forward" implies a quick and agile movement, often without significant force. "Charge forward", on the other hand, suggests a forceful and determined advance, frequently against resistance or opposition.