swerve
word
Definition
To turn suddenly and quickly to the side, often to avoid hitting something while moving, especially in a vehicle.
Usage & Nuances
Most common with vehicles or moving objects: 'swerve to avoid.' Usually describes a sudden, sharp movement, not a gradual turn. Informal or neutral register. Can also describe metaphorical sudden changes (e.g., 'the conversation swerved off topic'). Not interchangeable with 'turn' or 'curve'.
Spanish: girar bruscamente - desviarsePortuguese (BR): desviar-se bruscamente - fazer uma curva bruscaPortuguese (PT): desviar-se abruptamente - guinarChinese (Simplified): 突然转向 - 急转弯Chinese (Traditional): 突然轉向 - 急轉彎Hindi: अचानक मोड़ना - झटका देनाArabic: ينحرف فجأة - يغير الاتجاه بشكل حاد
Example Sentences
The car had to swerve to avoid the dog.
basic
If you swerve, you might lose control of your bike.
basic
Please do not swerve while driving.
basic
I had to swerve at the last second because someone stepped into the street.
natural
The conversation swerved into politics unexpectedly.
natural
Watch out! That driver just swerved into our lane.
natural