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sway

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /sweɪ/

KK: /swe/

intransitive verb
Definition

To move or swing from side to side, often in a gentle manner.


Example

The trees swayed gently in the breeze.


Tense Forms

Past: swayed

Past Participle: swayed


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you notice how the trees sway in the wind?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's really calming to watch them move like that.
Sloth A
I love when they sway back and forth, it feels almost magical.
Sloth B
Totally! It makes me want to go outside and enjoy the breeze.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
swing
waver
vacillate
Antonyms
steady
stabilize
remain
noun
Definition

The act of moving back and forth or side to side, often in a gentle or rhythmic way.


Example

The sway of the trees in the wind created a calming atmosphere.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you feel the sway of the crowd during the concert last night?
Sloth B
Absolutely! It was like everyone was moving together as one.
Sloth A
I love how music can create that kind of sway in a big crowd.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To cause something to move or swing from side to side or to lean in a particular direction.


Example

The wind began to sway the branches of the trees.


Tense Forms

Past: swayed

Past Participle: swayed


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see how the trees sway in the wind?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's really calming to watch.
Sloth A
I love how they sway back and forth like that.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

The word 'sway' originates from Old English 'swegan', meaning to move or swing. It describes the action of moving back and forth or side to side.

Memory Tip

Imagine something moving back and forth gently — that's what 'sway' means, coming from the Old English word for moving.

Visually Confused Words
swamy
asway
way
swa
say
upsway
sweaty
swathy
Is this page helpful?
Me too! It really brings people together in a special way.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
influence
control
swaying
Antonyms
powerlessness
subordination
weakness
It makes the whole park feel peaceful.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
swing
tilt
influence
Antonyms
steady
stabilize
resist