What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pivot
Example
The door pivoted on its hinges as I pushed it open. [pivot: verb]
Example
The team's success pivoted on their ability to adapt to changing circumstances. [pivoted: past tense]
Example
She was the pivot of the entire operation, without whom nothing could be accomplished. [pivot: noun]
swivel
Example
He swiveled his chair around to face me. [swiveled: past tense]
Example
The owl's head swiveled around to track the sound of the mouse. [swiveled: past participle]
Example
The company had to swivel its marketing strategy to adapt to the changing market conditions. [swivel: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Swivel is more commonly used than pivot in everyday language, especially in mechanical or physical contexts. Pivot is more specialized and is often used in strategic or critical situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between pivot and swivel?
Both pivot and swivel can be used in formal or informal contexts, but pivot is more likely to be used in professional or technical settings due to its specialized meaning.
