What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
swaying
Example
The trees were swaying in the breeze. [swaying: verb]
Example
She was swaying to the beat of the music. [swaying: gerund or present participle]
swinging
Example
The pendulum was swinging back and forth. [swinging: verb]
Example
They were swinging their arms and legs in time with the music. [swinging: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Swaying is less commonly used than swinging in everyday language. Swinging is a versatile word that can be used in many contexts, while swaying is more specific and often used to describe the movement of plants or trees.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between swaying and swinging?
Both swaying and swinging are informal words that can be used in casual conversation or writing. Neither word is particularly formal or informal.
