What are the definitions of “swan off”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Leave somewhere in a defiant or pompous manner.
He didn't like the way the spoke to him so he SWANNED OFF angrily.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “swan off”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb swan off is to leave a place in a defiant or pompous manner. It is often used when someone is upset or angry and wants to make a dramatic exit. For example, it can be used when someone leaves a party or a meeting because they are not happy with the situation.
What are the different verb forms of “swan off”?
Root Verb | swan off |
Third Person Singular Present | swans off |
Present Participle | swanning off |
Simple Past | swanned off |
Past Participle | swanned off |
Example
She didn't like the way they treated her, so she swanned off in a huff.
Example
He always swans off when he doesn't get his way.
Example
She is swanning off to her room after the argument.
Example
They swanned off from the party after a disagreement.
Example
He had swanned off before anyone could apologize.
What kind of phrasal verb is “swan off”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“swan off” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
She swanned off without saying goodbye.
Example
He swanned off angrily after the argument.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“swan off” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She swanned off without saying goodbye.
Example
He swanned off angrily after the argument.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “swan off”?
Good things to know
Does “swan off” have an informal or formal tone?
Swan off is an informal phrasal verb, typically used in casual conversations. It is not appropriate for formal settings or writing. In more formal contexts, alternatives such as 'leave abruptly' or 'depart angrily' can be used.