sally
word
Definition
A sally is a sudden movement forward, attack, or action, especially from a place of safety. It can also mean a quick departure or a lively, witty remark in more literary usage.
Usage & Nuances
This is an uncommon word in everyday modern English and appears more often in history, literature, fantasy, or formal writing. Common patterns include 'make a sally', 'a sally from the fort', and the literary phrase 'a witty sally'. Do not confuse it with the common female name Sally.
Example Sentences
The soldiers made a sally from the castle gate.
basic
The army waited, then launched a sally at dawn.
basic
His sally into the street surprised everyone.
basic
The rebels made a quick sally before retreating back inside.
natural
In the middle of dinner, she made a sally out to the garden for some air.
natural
The professor's dry lecture was saved by the occasional witty sally.
natural