# swerving

/swˈɜːvɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/swerving
Updated: 2026-10-15

## Definition

to turn quickly to one side, usually to avoid hitting something or someone.

For teachers: to change direction suddenly, especially while driving, cycling, or running, in order to avoid an obstacle or danger.

## Examples

- She is swerving to avoid the puddles on the road.
- The cyclist kept swerving between cars during rush hour, which made the bus driver nervous.
- The driver ended up swerving across two lanes to miss the deer before regaining control on the empty road.

## Synonyms

veer, Dodge, sidestep

## Usage notes

- The verb is usually intransitive and often followed by 'to avoid' or 'to miss'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.