In one fell swoop definitions
| Word backwards | ni eno llef poows |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Preposition |
| Syllabic division | in one fell swoop 5-1-1-1-1 |
| Plural | The plural of the phrase "one fell swoop" is "fell swoops." |
| Total letters | 14 |
| Vogais (3) | i,o,e |
| Consonants (6) | n,f,l,s,w,p |
When something happens "in one fell swoop," it means that it is done all at once or in a single swift action. This phrase is often used to describe a sudden and decisive action that has a significant impact.
Origin of the Phrase
The phrase "in one fell swoop" can be traced back to Shakespeare’s famous play Macbeth. In Act 4, Scene 3, Macduff learns that his entire family has been murdered by Macbeth's men. Overwhelmed by grief and anger, Macduff vows to take revenge by saying, “All my pretty ones? Did you say all? O hell-kite! All? What, all my pretty chickens and their dam At one fell swoop?”
Usage in Modern Times
In modern times, the phrase "in one fell swoop" is commonly used to describe instances where something is done quickly and decisively. It often implies that a single action has far-reaching consequences or achieves a lot in a short amount of time.
Examples of Usage
For example, a company may announce a series of layoffs and restructuring initiatives that will completely change the organization's structure "in one fell swoop." Similarly, a government may introduce sweeping reforms that overhaul the entire system of governance "in one fell swoop."
In everyday conversations, people may use the phrase to emphasize the speed and efficiency of an action. For instance, someone might say, "She cleaned out her entire closet in one fell swoop," to convey that the task was completed quickly and all at once.
Swift and decisive actions are often associated with the phrase "in one fell swoop," highlighting the efficiency and impact of the single action. The phrase captures the idea of a dramatic and all-encompassing change that occurs suddenly and without warning.
In one fell swoop Examples
- She completed her work in one fell swoop, impressing her boss.
- The company rebranded its entire product line in one fell swoop.
- He cleaned his entire apartment in one fell swoop before his guests arrived.
- The new software update fixed all the bugs in one fell swoop.
- She completed the marathon in one fell swoop, breaking the record.
- The chef prepared dinner in one fell swoop, showcasing his culinary skills.
- The artist painted the entire mural in one fell swoop, capturing the essence of the city.
- He finished reading the novel in one fell swoop, unable to put it down.
- The team won the championship in one fell swoop, dominating the competition.
- She solved the puzzle in one fell swoop, surprising everyone with her quick thinking.