What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
swerve
Example
The driver had to swerve to avoid hitting the deer on the road. [swerve: verb]
Example
The cyclist swerved to avoid the pothole on the street. [swerved: past tense]
veer
Example
The plane started to veer off course due to strong winds. [veer: verb]
Example
The conversation veered towards politics after discussing the weather. [veered: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Veer is more commonly used than swerve in everyday language. Veer is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while swerve is more specific and often used in the context of driving or riding.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between swerve and veer?
Both swerve and veer are relatively formal words and may not be commonly used in informal conversations. However, veer is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.