veer - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
veer Word Meanings
- to change direction suddenly
- to sway or shift from a course
- to deviate from a path
veer Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
veer Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/vɪə/
US
/vɪr/
veer Word Etymology
veer = veer (unknown origin), Origination from the Middle English "ver" meaning 'to turn'. The word evokes the image of a ship suddenly changing its course on the water.
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
Veer means to change direction suddenly or to move away from a planned course. It can describe a car swerving to avoid an obstacle, a ship shifting course with a quick turn, or a person’s plan or argument deviating from the expected path. In many contexts, veer implies a brief, sometimes instinctive adjustment rather than a long, deliberate change. It also appears in phrases like veer toward or veer off, which signal approximate movement toward a new direction or away from the original target. Learners should note that veer is more physical in its base sense, but it can also be used metaphorically to describe opinions, topics, or strategies that drift unexpectedly.
Usage Reminders
- Use veer for sudden, brief direction changes.
- Don’t use veer for gradual turns; choose turn or bend instead.
- Veer is commonly paired with toward or off.
- You can use veer metaphorically for plans, ideas, or topics that drift.
- Notice the subject of veering is often physical, but it can describe attitudes or strategies too.
Common Misconceptions
- Veer is the same as turn or bend in all contexts.
- Veer always implies a permanent change in direction.
- You can only use veer with roads, not plans or ideas.
- Veer must always be followed by toward or off.
- Veer is purely physical and cannot be used metaphorically.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Practice with road-focused contexts (car, bike, boat).
- Pair veer with toward or off to signal direction.
- Compare veer with turn and bend to feel nuance.
- Note metaphorical uses: veer off topic, veer toward a goal.
- Listen for short, quick changes rather than long courses.
- Create your own sentences to cement the nuance.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'veer'?
A.Go
B.Stay still
C.Change direction
D.Sleep
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'veer' correctly?
A.They veered left at the intersection.
B.She veered from eating.
C.He veered in his sleep.
D.The cat veered happily.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'veer'?
A.Continue
B.Shift
C.Stop
D.Rest
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'veer'?
A.Stay on course
B.Swerve
C.Turn
D.Change
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation might someone 'veer'?
A.Driving a car
B.Playing chess
C.Eating lunch
D.Sleeping
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