scamper

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "scamper" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used as an intransitive verb to describe the quick, light running of small animals or children, or when someone or something moves quickly or hurriedly in a general sense. Example sentence: The dog scampered across the grassy field.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He was fit enough to scamper the most outrageous save, though, held, then broke in the eighth game to serve out the set with his second ace after 45 minutes.

The Guardian - Sport

Although Wenlock and Mandeville were happy, in their first episode, to scamper about in front of the telly, they will soon, no doubt, be explaining to children why there is no point in a mascot, even an elite one, jumping out of a window and setting off along a publicly funded rainbow if it doesn't have a track record of finding pots of gold.

The Guardian - Opinion

Bellamy, who would not last much longer, then had a scamper down the right before zipping a ball across the face of Federici's goal, and from the left Bothroyd repeated the trick but Reading escaped.

The Guardian - Sport

Meanwhile the sensors' signal arrives virtually instantaneously in Mexico City, where alarms are sounded, giving people just enough time to scamper out into the street before the earthquake arrives.Why can no other country develop an early-warning system like this?

The Economist

Stray dogs scamper through the nursery and toddlers are being weighed in the corner while food is passed around.

The Economist

The Atlanta Falcons designed their offence around the fleet-footed Mr Vick's remarkable ability to improvise and scamper, and he remains the only quarterback to break the barrier of 1,000 rushing yards.

The Economist

Half the size of a shoebox, it can scamper at a rate of five times its own body-length per second.

The Economist

Indeed, if all companies used them, only half of all bosses would get a payout in any given year.On the other hand, when absolute performance tests are used executives simply have to clear a bar, and if it is set low enough they can all scamper over it.

The Economist

March to May is usually the busiest period in the market, as eager purchasers scamper from home to home amid the ripening buds.

The Economist

And the singer whose party piece, when touring with John Chilton and the Feetwarmers, was to scamper round the stage and groom the clarinettist's head during his rendition of "Organ Grinder Blues", would admit that his thoughts on the river bank were of poppies, midges, Magritte and clouds.And sex.

The Economist

At the first recognition of danger, most snakes and lizards crawl or scamper away into the undergrowth; turtles and crocodiles plunge into water and sink out of sight.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing animal movement, use "scamper" to evoke a sense of lightness and agility. For example, "Squirrels scamper through the park."

Common error

While "scamper" effectively conveys quick and light movement, it's generally less appropriate in formal or serious contexts. Opt for alternatives like "hurry", "rush", or "dash" when a more neutral tone is needed.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "scamper" is as an intransitive verb, describing a type of movement. Ludwig shows its usage in sentences like "Stray dogs scamper through the nursery" and "Half the size of a shoebox, it can scamper at a rate of five times its own body-length per second."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "scamper" is a versatile intransitive verb used to describe quick, light movement, often associated with small animals or children. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability for diverse writing contexts. While commonly found in News & Media and Encyclopedias, it is less prevalent in formal or academic settings. When writing, remember that "scamper" suggests agility and sometimes playfulness. Consider alternatives like "scurry" or "dart" for different nuances. Avoid overuse in highly formal writing where more neutral terms would be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

scurry

Emphasizes a hurried and often panicked movement, suggesting a sense of urgency or fear.

dart

Implies a sudden and rapid movement in a specific direction, often over a short distance.

dash

Suggests a quick sprint or run, typically to achieve a goal or avoid something.

scuttle

Describes a quick, shuffling movement, often used for small creatures or in a comical context.

frisk

Implies a playful and energetic movement, often associated with animals or children.

bound

Suggests a leaping or jumping movement, covering more ground than a typical run.

gambol

Describes a joyful and carefree movement, often involving skipping or leaping.

trip

Implies a light and quick step, often suggesting a delicate or nimble movement.

cavort

Suggests exuberant and playful behavior, often involving dancing or frolicking.

skip

Implies a light and springing gait, moving forward by hopping from one foot to another.

FAQs

How can I use "scamper" in a sentence?

You can use "scamper" to describe a quick, light running movement, especially of small animals or children. For example, "The children scampered across the playground."

What are some synonyms for "scamper"?

Some synonyms for "scamper" include "scurry", "dart", and "dash". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "scamper" appropriate for formal writing?

"Scamper" is generally considered informal and is best suited for creative or descriptive writing. In formal contexts, consider using more neutral terms like "hurry" or "rush".

What's the difference between "scamper" and "scurry"?

While both words describe quick movement, "scamper" often implies a more playful or lighthearted movement, whereas "scurry" suggests a hurried or panicked movement.