One fell swoop, in definitions
| Word backwards | eno llef ,poows ni |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | The part of speech of the word "one fell swoop" is a noun phrase. |
| Syllabic division | one / fell / swoop |
| Plural | The plural of "one fell swoop" is "several fell swoops." |
| Total letters | 14 |
| Vogais (3) | o,e,i |
| Consonants (6) | n,f,l,s,w,p |
One Fell Swoop
One fell swoop is a phrase that originates from Shakespeare's Macbeth, where Macduff discovers that his family has been murdered. The term "fell" in this context means fierce or deadly, and "swoop" refers to a sudden, swift movement. Together, the phrase conveys the idea of something happening quickly and decisively in a single action.
Origin and Meaning
Shakespeare's use of the phrase has given it a lasting place in the English language. It is often used to describe situations where a significant or dramatic event occurs swiftly and unexpectedly. Imagine a scenario where a company announces layoffs, affecting many employees at once. This could be described as happening in one fell swoop.
Usage in Literature and Everyday Language
Beyond its origins in Shakespeare, the phrase "one fell swoop" has been used by many authors and speakers over the years. Its dramatic and evocative nature makes it a powerful way to convey the sudden impact of an event. In everyday language, people might use it to describe a situation where multiple things are accomplished or affected at the same time.
Examples in Modern Context
Consider a politician who implements sweeping changes to a country's laws and policies, affecting various aspects of society at once. This could be described as a series of reforms happening in one fell swoop. Similarly, a student who completes multiple assignments ahead of schedule could be said to have finished them all in one fell swoop.
Sudden and decisive actions are often associated with this phrase, highlighting the idea of something being done swiftly and efficiently. The use of "fell swoop" in conversation adds a touch of drama and flair to language, bringing to mind the intense emotions that can accompany significant events.
One fell swoop, in Examples
- She cleaned the entire house in one fell swoop before her guests arrived.
- The company announced a restructuring plan to cut costs in one fell swoop.
- The superhero defeated all the villains in one fell swoop.
- The new software update fixed multiple bugs in one fell swoop.
- With one fell swoop, the teacher caught the attention of all her students.
- The new product launch will capture a larger market share in one fell swoop.
- The chef prepared dinner for 20 guests in one fell swoop.
- He cleared out his entire inbox in one fell swoop.
- By finishing the project early, she impressed her boss in one fell swoop.
- The athlete broke multiple records in one fell swoop during the competition.