Formal and Informal Expressions of sweep

In different contexts, you can replace 'sweep' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'clean, clear' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'tidy up, get rid of' is a commonplace synonym.

sweep: Explore its Definition & Usage

sweep Definition

1clean (an area) by brushing away dirt or litter
2move quickly and smoothly in a particular direction
3win (a series of games, matches, or votes)
4search (an area) for something
5a wide-ranging search of an area or place

Using sweep: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "sweep" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
She swept the floor with a broom.
Example
The wind swept through the trees.
Example
The party swept to power in the election.
Example
The police are sweeping the area for clues.
Example
The company conducted a sweep of all its offices.

sweep Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for sweep

Antonyms for sweep

dirty
messy

Idioms Using sweep

make a clean sweep
to completely remove or get rid of something
Example
The new CEO made a clean sweep of the company's management team.
sweep something under the carpet
to hide or ignore something embarrassing or unpleasant
Example
The government has been accused of sweeping the issue of police brutality under the carpet.
sweep the board
to win all the prizes or awards in a competition
Example
The film swept the board at the Oscars, winning six awards.

Phrases with sweep

sweep aside
to dismiss or ignore something as unimportant
Example
He swept aside my objections and went ahead with his plan.
sweep off one's feet
to cause someone to fall suddenly and completely in love with you
Example
He swept her off her feet with his charm and good looks.
sweep under the rug
to hide or ignore something embarrassing or unpleasant
Example
The company tried to sweep the scandal under the rug, but it eventually became public.

Origins of sweep

Old English 'swāpan', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'zwaaien' and German 'schweifen'

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Summary: sweep in Brief

The verb 'sweep' [swiːp] can mean to clean an area by brushing away dirt or litter, move quickly and smoothly in a particular direction, win a series of games, matches, or votes, or search an area for something. It can also refer to a wide-ranging search of an area or place. Phrases like 'sweep aside' and 'sweep under the rug' denote dismissing or hiding something, while 'sweep off one's feet' means to fall suddenly and completely in love with someone. 'Sweep' extends into idioms like 'make a clean sweep,' meaning to completely remove something.