swipe - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
swipe Word Meanings
- to move a hand or object with a sweeping motion
- to steal or take something without permission
- a gesture on a touchscreen to navigate or select
swipe Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
swipe Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/swaɪp/
US
/swaɪp/
swipe Word Etymology
The root is 'swipe', likely from the Old Norse 'swipa' meaning 'to wipe'. The historical origin traces through Middle English and Old Norse before solidifying in modern English. To remember, picture swiping a credit card: a quick, smooth movement that can also imply the act of taking something away.
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 InputReal Context
Swipe is a versatile English verb and noun describing a rapid, sweeping motion. As a verb, it means to move your hand or an object with a smooth, gliding arc, such as swiping a card, swiping left or right on a smartphone, or swiping through a photo album. As a noun, a swipe can refer to the act itself or to the gesture used on touchscreens. A second sense is informal: to swipe something means to steal or take it without permission, as in shoplifting or lifting a wallet. In tech contexts, swipe prompts are common: swipe left to delete, swipe right to save, and swipe to unlock. The underlying idea is movement that is quick and clean.
Usage Reminders
- - Use swipe for touch gestures like left/right or up/down
- - Not every action on a phone screen is a swipe; taps exist too
- - Swipe as theft is informal slang; avoid in formal writing
- - For payments, say 'swipe a card' or 'swipe your card' depending on region
- - Document UI guidelines often distinguish swipe from scroll or tap
- - Combine swipe with other actions (tap, hold) for complex gestures
Common Misconceptions
- Swipe is not always a theft; context matters
- Swipe is different from tap or scroll
- Left vs right swipe have different meanings (delete vs save)
- Swipe can be transitive (swipe the card) or intransitive (swipe left)
- Some devices use 'slide' or 'drag' instead of swipe
Thinking Differences
Native English speakers often distinguish swipe as a fluid, intentional gesture, while many learners might default to 'slide' or 'drag' for any motion; emphasize left/right context and the common tech phrases (swipe left to delete, swipe right to save).
Learning Tips
- Practice with left/right swipes on your phone daily
- Pair swipe with a tap to perform more actions
- Learn common phrases: swipe left to delete, swipe right to save
- Observe native speakers using swipe in apps and videos
- Practice both transitive and intransitive uses (swipe the card vs swipe left)
- Create flashcards for app-specific phrases
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of 'swipe'?
A.To take something by pushing it away
B.To move quickly
C.To pass lightly over a surface
D.To steal something
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'swipe' correctly?
A.He asked her to swipe the table clean before dinner.
B.She decided to swipe right on the dating app.
C.The child will swipe the cookie from the jar.
D.I will swipe at the fly with my hand.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'swipe'?
A.Push
B.Grab
C.Throw
D.Drop
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'swipe'?
A.Hold
B.Secure
C.Pass
D.Offer
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where you would use 'swipe'?
A.She used her card to pay for groceries.
B.In the app, a user can indicate interest by swiping.
C.He just dropped his keys on the table.
D.During the game, players will pass the ball to each other.
Related Listening
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