swift motion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "swift motion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a quick or rapid movement, often in contexts related to physical actions or processes. Example: "The dancer moved across the stage in a swift motion, captivating the audience with her grace."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

4. Swift motion.

The New Yorker

In one swift motion, Uehara spun and fired to first base.

The New York Times - Sports

The images move laterally or up and down, and the sense of swift motion is pervasive.

The New York Times - Arts

Then he guffawed and wiped his handkerchief over his entire face in one swift motion.

The New Yorker

The percussive group may also be called dynamic because of the swift motion and the large, short-term forces they develop.

Encyclopedia Britannica

MIAMI — In one swift motion, packed with power, grace and symmetry, LeBron James grabbed a title and released his burdens, enjoying a coronation and liberation all at once.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

Many bloggers swear by the Tinkle eyebrow razor, which is used on dry skin in short, swift motions at a 45-degree angle.

Huffington Post

When you use the rake, use swift motions to make a peaceful movement.

WikiHow

Gently squeeze in swift motions the excess water that is probably dripping down your back.

WikiHow

One may find her standing upright with her hands behind her head, alternately bringing her knees to her elbows in a swift crunching motion.

The New York Times

Dressed in white, her long red hair falling like layers of confection around her face, Juliet declares her annoyance: "Had she affections and warm youthful blood, / She would be as swift in motion as a ball... / But old folks, many feign as they were dead, / Unwieldy, slow, heavy, and pale as lead".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To add vividness to your writing, consider coupling "swift motion" with descriptive adjectives. Examples: 'a surprisingly swift motion' or 'a nearly imperceptible swift motion'.

Common error

Avoid using "swift motion" to describe processes that are inherently slow or gradual. Reserve it for scenarios where the speed of movement is a key characteristic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "swift motion" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a movement characterized by speed and fluidity. Ludwig examples show its use in both literal and figurative contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Wiki

21%

Science

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "swift motion" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a quick and often graceful movement. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable. It's most commonly found in news and media, as well as encyclopedias, science articles and wikis, lending itself to a neutral register. When using this phrase, it's important to emphasize the speed of the movement as a key descriptive element, and avoid overuse in static or gradual contexts. For variety, consider alternatives like "rapid movement" or "quick action", but always ensuring the synonym reflects the original intent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rapid movement

Emphasizes the speed and pace of the movement.

speedy movement

Highlights the velocity of the movement.

quick action

Focuses on the decisiveness and speed of an action.

prompt action

Indicates immediate and timely action.

brisk pace

Suggests a lively and energetic speed.

nimble action

Conveys agility and quickness in performing an action.

agile motion

Highlights the dexterity and swiftness of the motion.

expeditious movement

Implies efficient and rapid movement.

fleet movement

Emphasizes the grace and speed of the movement.

rapid-fire action

Suggests a series of quick and consecutive actions.

FAQs

How can I use "swift motion" in a sentence?

You can use "swift motion" to describe rapid and fluid movements, like "The cat pounced in a "swift motion"" or "The dancer executed a "swift motion" across the stage".

What are some alternatives to "swift motion"?

Alternatives include "rapid movement", "quick action", or "speedy movement". The best choice depends on the specific context and the aspect of the movement you want to emphasize.

Is it correct to say 'a swift motion' or 'one swift motion'?

Both are correct depending on the context. "A swift motion" describes the general quality of being swift. "One swift motion" emphasizes a single, fluid action, often used to highlight efficiency or precision.

What's the difference between "swift motion" and "fast motion"?

"Swift motion" implies not just speed but also grace and fluidity. "Fast motion"/"quick motion" simply indicates high speed without necessarily implying elegance or smoothness.