to prance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to prance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a lively, spirited movement, often associated with animals, particularly horses, or to convey a sense of joy and exuberance in a person's actions. Example: "The children began to prance around the playground, filled with excitement on the first day of summer vacation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Amanda goes to Prance in her van.

The New Yorker

"It was hard because he did like to prance about.

Independent

Expect this live set to prance gleefully between the two.

The Guardian

4. I will show you how to prance upon them beforehand.

The New Yorker

At Ms. Zerbini's whispered word, they began to prance in dizzying concentric circles.

The New York Times

Then I have my little Alice + Olivia wardrobe that I love to prance around in.

The New York Times

There is plenty to prance about: borrowing and lending, stealing and returning, disinheriting and cursing.

The New York Times

Before his incarceration, Johnson was known to prance around the ring with swagger.

The Washington Post

They're going to prance around on a stage for a bit now.

The Guardian - Sport

When that happens Ida begins to prance with tail erect, half-rearing, half bucking.

The New York Times

Does Baron Cohen's departure leave the door open for Thomas to prance in as his idol?

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to prance" to vividly describe movements that are not only energetic but also carry an element of display or self-importance. Consider the context to ensure the nuance of self-display is appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "to prance" in contexts that require a solemn or serious tone. The phrase's inherent connotation of lightheartedness or showiness can undermine the intended gravity of the message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to prance" functions primarily as an infinitive verb phrase, often used to describe a specific manner of movement. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. The examples show it describing both animal and human actions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

HuffPost

5%

The New Yorker

4%

Less common in

Vice

1%

Cornell University

0.5%

Wikipedia

0.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to prance" is a grammatically sound and frequently used infinitive verb phrase. As Ludwig AI confirms, it conveys a spirited manner of movement, often with an air of display or exuberance. Predominantly found in news and media sources, its usage extends to describe both human and animal actions. While versatile, caution should be exercised to avoid its use in contexts demanding solemnity. Alternatives like "to strut", "to swagger", and "to frolic" can provide nuanced substitutes depending on the specific shade of meaning intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to strut

Emphasizes a proud and self-important way of walking.

to swagger

Suggests a bold and arrogant manner of walking.

to gambol

Implies playful skipping or frolicking.

to cavort

Conveys energetic and often wild behavior.

to frolic

Describes lighthearted and joyful play.

to skip

Indicates a light, springing step.

to dance

General term for rhythmic movement, may lack the specific flair of "to prance".

to parade

Emphasizes a display or procession, often formal.

to sashay

Suggests a graceful, gliding walk, often with a swaying motion.

to strut one's stuff

Idiomatic expression meaning to show off one's abilities or attractiveness.

FAQs

How can I use "to prance" in a sentence?

You can use "to prance" to describe a lively or flamboyant way of moving, such as "The horses began "to prance" in dizzying concentric circles".

What's a good alternative to "to prance"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "to strut", "to swagger", or "to frolic".

Is "to prance" suitable for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "to prance" might be too informal or playful for highly formal or academic writing. Consider a more neutral verb like "to move" or "to proceed" in those contexts.

What's the difference between "to prance" and "to dance"?

"To dance" is a general term for moving rhythmically, while "to prance" implies a more spirited and showy manner of movement, often with high steps or leaps. The context dictates which is more appropriate.