it flies

USAGE SUMMARY

"it flies" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
This phrase can be used when the subject of the sentence is an object or animal that is in motion through the air. For example: "The paper airplane was thrown and it flies through the room." In this sentence, "it flies" describes the action of the paper airplane as it travels through the room. Another example could be: "The bird spread its wings and it flies gracefully in the sky." In this sentence, "it flies" is used to describe the bird's movement as it takes flight.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It flies.

The New York Times - Tech

It flies by.

The New Yorker

It flies well wide.

The Guardian - Sport

It flies well over.

The Guardian - Sport

It flies autonomously.

The New Yorker

"It flies," he said.

The New York Times

It flies away".

The New Yorker

We'll see how it flies.

The New York Times

Or, more simply, it flies.

The New York Times - Science

Catch it before it flies.

The New York Times

"It flies off the shelves there".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it flies" to describe the passage of time, consider adding adverbs or qualifiers (e.g., "it flies by quickly") for increased clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "it flies" when referring to abstract concepts that do not involve literal movement through the air. For example, instead of saying "the rumor flies quickly", consider alternatives like "the rumor spreads quickly."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it flies" primarily functions as a verb phrase, where "it" serves as the subject and "flies" as the intransitive verb indicating movement through the air. Ludwig AI recognizes its common usage in describing both literal flight and figurative rapid passage. The phrase can describe the action of something moving through the air or the quick passing of time.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

18%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it flies" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe the movement of something through the air or the quick passage of time. Ludwig AI confirms this, highlighting its versatility across various contexts, from news reports to academic texts. While generally neutral in tone, more specific vocabulary may be appropriate for highly formal or technical writing. Alternatives like "it soars" or "it glides" can provide subtle nuances. It's crucial to consider the context and audience when choosing the most effective expression. The prevalence of examples in prominent sources, such as The New York Times and The Guardian, underscores its widespread acceptance and utility in contemporary English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it soars

Replaces 'flies' with a more emphatic term suggesting effortless height and success.

it takes off

Suggests a beginning of a journey or a sudden increase in popularity/success.

it glides

Emphasizes a smooth and effortless movement, especially through the air.

it speeds by

Focuses on the rapid pace at which something moves or progresses.

it rushes past

Highlights the quick passing of time or an event.

it zips along

Implies a quick and energetic movement or progression.

it moves quickly

A more general way of saying something travels fast.

it is airborne

Formally states that something is in the air, emphasizing its flight status.

it lifts off

Similar to "takes off", but can also imply a more literal physical elevation.

it sails

Evokes a sense of smooth, controlled movement, often by wind or other forces.

FAQs

How can I use "it flies" in a sentence?

You can use "it flies" to describe the movement of an object through the air, such as "The kite is well made, and "it flies" high in the sky". It can also describe how quickly something passes, for example "Time flies when you're having fun, I feel like "it flies" by".

What does "it flies" mean?

"It flies" literally means something moves through the air. Figuratively, "it flies" can mean something is successful or moves quickly.

What are some alternatives to saying "it flies"?

Alternatives include "it soars", "it glides", or "it takes off", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "it flies" appropriate for formal writing?

While generally acceptable, consider the context. In formal writing, more precise alternatives like "it soars" or "it is airborne" may be more suitable depending on what "it flies" refers to.