flew wide

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "flew wide" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that missed its target or goal, often in a figurative sense, such as an idea or plan that did not succeed. Example: "His attempt to impress the audience with his speech flew wide, leaving them unimpressed and confused."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It flew wide.

The Guardian - Sport

Graham's own attempt flew wide.

The Guardian - Sport

His throw flew wide of Rodriguez and up the line.

The New York Times

His shot flew wide of the left post.

The New York Times - Sports

His bullets flew wide of the officer, but her aim was better.

The New York Times

Vardy's snapshot tested Jack Butland and Mahrez's scissor-kick, from the resulting corner, flew wide.

Independent

At times, that has led to stories that flew wide of the mark.

The Washington Post

His standing foot slipped as he struck the ball and the effort flew wide.

The Guardian - Sport

Messi's final attempt in injury time flew wide as Madrid hung on to win its ninth Super Cup.

The New York Times - Sports

In that game, a drop goal attempt by Brock James for the French team flew wide in the dying seconds.

The New York Times - Sports

As Kvitova's final forehand return flew wide, Osaka fell to her haunches, her head in her hands.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "flew wide" in creative writing, consider the context of flight to enhance the imagery. For example, a character's hopes "flew wide" after a disappointing event.

Common error

While "flew wide" can be used metaphorically, avoid applying it to situations where the concept of flight or trajectory is completely irrelevant. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "flew wide" functions primarily as a verb phrase. It typically describes the action of something missing its intended target or course, often implying movement and direction. As Ludwig AI explains, it's a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "flew wide" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe something missing its intended target or course. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Predominantly found in news and media, its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to consider the spatial or metaphorical implications to ensure it aligns with the intended meaning. Remember to avoid overuse or application in contexts where the sense of flight is completely irrelevant. Alternatives like "missed the mark" or "went astray" can offer stylistic variations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

missed the mark

Indicates a failure to achieve the intended goal or target, emphasizing the lack of success.

went astray

Implies a deviation from the correct or intended course, highlighting the element of wandering or getting lost.

drifted off course

Suggests a gradual departure from the planned route, often due to external influences or lack of control.

veered off target

Highlights a sudden and noticeable change in direction, implying a more abrupt deviation.

shot off course

Emphasizes the initial direction was incorrect, leading to a missed target.

failed to hit the target

Directly states the absence of success in reaching the intended destination or objective.

did not reach its goal

Focuses on the unachieved outcome, emphasizing the lack of completion or fulfillment.

went beyond the boundary

Highlights that something is outside the limits or scope.

exceeded the limit

Highlights that something has surpassed the acceptable scope.

was off the mark

Indicates that an initial assessment or statement was inaccurate or misguided.

FAQs

What does it mean when something "flew wide"?

When something "flew wide", it means it missed its intended target or deviated from its planned course. It's often used to describe a physical object, like a ball, or a metaphorical concept, such as an argument or an attempt.

How can I use "flew wide" in a sentence?

You can use "flew wide" to describe a shot in sports that misses the goal (e.g., "The soccer ball flew wide of the net"), or to explain that an idea or plan was unsuccessful (e.g., "His attempt at humor flew wide, and no one laughed.").

What are some alternatives to saying "flew wide"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "missed the mark", "went astray", or "veered off target".

Is it appropriate to use "flew wide" in formal writing?

Yes, "flew wide" is acceptable in formal writing, especially when describing a miss in a literal sense. However, for metaphorical uses, consider whether a more precise or formal term might be more appropriate.