swing - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
swing Word Meanings
- to move back and forth
- to rotate around a point
- to change position or opinion
swing Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
swing Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/swɪŋ/
US
/swɪŋ/
swing Word Etymology
swing = swing; from Old English 'swingan' meaning 'to shake, to swing'. Visualize a child joyfully swinging back and forth on a playground swing, embodying freedom and movement.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I stand and give a small push with my feet, letting my arms swing lightly at my sides. Back and forth the motion move me, and I shift my weight to stay balanced. I adjust my stance and turn my wrists a touch, guiding the arc into a comfortable rhythm. By the end I realize I can move my actions toward a new aim by keeping a steady pace and letting the swing carry me.
Real Context
Swing is a versatile English word with several distinct senses. As a verb, it means to move freely back and forth or to cause something to do so, and it also covers rotating around a point in circular motion. As a noun, swing denotes the action itself, the equipment (a swing), or a swing in position or opinion. In everyday usage you might talk about a swing door, a swing vote, or how mood can swing. The etymology traces back to Old English swingan, conveying shaking or moving. A vivid image for learners is a child on a playground swing, embodying momentum, joy, and the sense of motion that links body and environment.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Use swing for back-and-forth movement and for changes in opinion or position.
- 2) Remember the irregular past tense: swung.
- 3) Treat swing as both a noun (the swing, a swing in opinion) and a verb (to swing).
- 4) Learn common collocations: swing door, swing vote, swing set, swing by.
- 5) Distinguish from sway and rotate: swing is translation of motion with a broad sense; rotate is circular around a point but not necessarily back-and-forth.
Common Misconceptions
- Swing is always only about playground equipment or a single back-and-forth motion.
- Swung is a regular past tense; the correct past tense is swung.
- A swing cannot describe changes in opinion; only physical movement.
- Sway and swing are interchangeable in all contexts.
- Swing cannot describe rotational motion around a point.
Thinking Differences
Native English uses swing across physical, rotational, and figurative senses; learners should note the irregular past tense swung and avoid overgeneralizing to all motion words.
Learning Tips
- Visualize swing as three axes: back-and-forth, circular rotation, and a shift in stance.
- Learn common collocations: swing door, swing vote, swing set, swing by, swing around.
- Remember irregular past tense swung; avoid swang in writing.
- Create 5 original sentences using each sense to reinforce memory.
- Pair swing with prepositions to show direction: swing to the left, swing back.
- Practice with short dialogues that show both literal and figurative swings.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'swing'?
A.To sing loudly
B.To move back and forth
C.To fly like a bird
D.To sleep deeply
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'swing' used correctly?
A.The bird decided to swing in the nest.
B.He went to the concert and swing all the songs.
C.She likes to swing on the swing set at the park.
D.I was swing all day at work.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following words is similar to 'swing'?
A.Eat
B.Sway
C.Sleep
D.Jump
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'swing'?
A.Stand still
B.Run fast
C.Talk loudly
D.Laugh
Step 5: Mastery
Can you describe a real-life situation where you might see someone 'swing'?
A.Cooking a meal in the kitchen
B.Reading a book quietly
C.Watching a movie at the theater
D.Playing on a swing set at the park
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App