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swoop

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /swup/

KK: /swup/

intransitive verb
Definition

To move quickly and suddenly in a sweeping motion, often from a higher position to a lower one.


Example

The eagle swooped down to catch its dinner.


Tense Forms

Past: swooped

Past Participle: swooped


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see that hawk swoop down and catch a mouse?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was incredible! I didn't think they could move that fast.
Sloth A
I know! It was like a scene from a nature documentary.
Sloth B
Totally! Nature can be so amazing to watch.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
dive
plunge
descend
Antonyms
hover
ascend
float
noun
Definition

The action of moving quickly downwards through the air, often to catch something or to attack.


Example

The bird made a swift swoop to catch its prey.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see that bird swoop down to catch its prey?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was so fast! I couldn't believe my eyes.
Sloth A
I love watching those moments; it's like a mini show.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To grab or take something quickly and suddenly, often in a sweeping motion.


Example

The eagle swooped down to catch its prey.


Tense Forms

Past: swooped

Past Participle: swooped


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see that bird swoop down to grab the fish?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was so fast!
Sloth A
I wish I could swoop in and catch dinner like that.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

The word 'swoop' originates from Middle English 'swope', which is derived from the Old English 'swapan', meaning to sweep or to move swiftly. It describes the action of moving downwards quickly, often in a sweeping motion.

Memory Tip

Imagine a bird 'sweeping' down quickly to catch its prey — that's what 'swoop' means.

Visually Confused Words
whoop
stoop
snoop
sloop
shoop
scoop
Is this page helpful?
Exactly! That quick swoop is always so impressive.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
dive
plunge
descend
Antonyms
ascend
rise
soar
Right? That would make fishing so much more exciting!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
grab
snatch
capture
Antonyms
release
drop
let