in one smooth motion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in one smooth motion" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means to do something smoothly and without interruption or hesitation. Example: She reached out and snatched the book from the shelf in one smooth motion, impressing everyone with her dexterity.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

4 Getting from a prone paddling position, lying on your belly, to standing on the board in one smooth motion takes good core strength.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Nawab leapt on the kick-starter of his motorcycle, and in one smooth motion flicked on the lights and shot out of the threshing-floor gates, onto the quarter-mile driveway leading from the heart of the farm to the road.

The New Yorker

She pulls on her stockings in one smooth motion (physically impossible, am I right?

Huffington Post

Using extreme caution, place the plate over the pan and, using an oven glove or tea towel wrapped around the outside, quickly flip the pan over and turn the tart out on to the plate in one smooth motion, being cautious of any hot liquid or steam that might escape.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Luke Keary gets to the final play and hoists a kick to the towering Daniel Tupou on the left, pouches and grounds in one smooth motion and that IS THE BALLGAME.

BBC

When drilling holes, move the drill in and out in one smooth motion with the drill running.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

One smooth motion of his body.

The New Yorker

Without access to either, she applies her liquid liner precisely in one smooth, gliding motion.

The Guardian - Music

As I watched her walk into my room and pick up my phone in one smooth, quick motion -- I knew this was one of countless incidents where I've had to surrender to someone else's ways.

Huffington Post

He ripped the England shirt off his back in one smooth, practiced, furious motion, and threw it with all his might, where it just flapped open and glided to the ground.

Vice

He ripped the England shirt off his back in one smooth, practised, furious motion, and threw it with all his might, where it just flapped open and glided to the ground.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in one smooth motion" to describe actions that require fluidity and coordination, such as athletic movements, dance steps, or mechanical operations. This emphasizes the skill and efficiency involved.

Common error

Avoid using "in one smooth motion" to describe static or unchanging situations. This phrase is best suited for actions that involve movement and a seamless transition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in one smooth motion" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe how an action is performed. As Ludwig showcases, it emphasizes the fluidity and lack of interruption during the action.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Wiki

33%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in one smooth motion" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adverbial phrase that describes the seamless execution of an action. Ludwig's analysis underscores its applicability across diverse contexts, primarily in news, how-to guides, and scientific writing. It serves to highlight efficiency, grace, or skill. While versatile, avoid overusing it in static descriptions. As seen in Ludwig's examples, this expression is commonly found in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, solidifying its legitimacy and value in effective communication. Alternatives such as "in a single flowing movement" or "with seamless continuity" can offer nuanced expressions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a single flowing movement

Emphasizes the continuous and unbroken nature of the action, highlighting fluidity.

with seamless continuity

Focuses on the absence of any disruption or break in the action.

in one continuous sweep

Suggests a broad and encompassing action done without pauses.

in a fluid transition

Highlights the change from one state to another, executed gracefully.

with effortless grace

Implies the action is done with skill and ease, minimizing apparent effort.

in a swift, unbroken gesture

Combines speed and continuity, emphasizing a quick and uninterrupted movement.

without hesitation

Focuses on the decisiveness and lack of pause before the action.

in a coordinated sequence

Highlights the organized nature of the action, suggesting multiple parts done in harmony.

in a practiced manner

Suggests the action is performed with skill due to repetition and training.

with practiced ease

Combine the elements of expertise and minimal effort

FAQs

How can I use "in one smooth motion" in a sentence?

This phrase typically describes an action executed fluidly and without interruption, like "She uncorked the bottle "in one smooth motion"."

What are some alternatives to "in one smooth motion"?

You can use alternatives like "in a single flowing movement", "with seamless continuity", or "in one continuous sweep" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "in one smooth motion"?

Yes, "in one smooth motion" is grammatically correct and widely used in English to describe a fluid, uninterrupted action. Ludwig AI confirms its validity.

What's the difference between "in one smooth motion" and "in one fluid motion"?

While both phrases are similar, "in one smooth motion" emphasizes the lack of disruption, whereas "in one fluid motion" highlights the grace and ease of the movement.