Browse all

swing out

B2 neutral inseparable intransitive
In simple words

To move out from a position in a big curving arc, like a door opening outward or a car pulling out into traffic.

Literal meaning: To swing (pivot in an arc) in an outward direction, away from a central point.

Meanings

1 B1 neutral

To move outward in a pivoting, arc-like motion, as a door or gate opens away from you.

"The barn door swung out on its rusty hinges and revealed the dark interior."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 neutral

Of a vehicle: to move out of its lane or parking space with a curving movement.

"The lorry suddenly swung out without signalling, nearly hitting the cyclist."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Commonly used for vehicles changing lanes, doors opening, crane arms extending, and people stepping out. Also used in jazz to mean playing with energetic, rhythmic freedom ('the band was really swinging out').

Commonly used with

door vehicle crane arm lane traffic

Forms

Base
swing out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
swings out
he/she/it
Past simple
swinged out
yesterday
Past participle
swinged out
have + pp
-ing form
swinging out
continuous

Understand "swing out" better

Try:

Real video examples

Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.

Synonyms

pull out move out arc out pivot outward

Want to master this phrasal verb?

Practice "swing out" on Looplines