sway
SWAY
/sweɪ/
To control or influence a person or course of action; (as a noun) rule, control, or influence.
Often implies a gentle, gradual, or sweeping shift in opinion or movement, rather than sudden force.
The story behind the word. The word began in Germanic languages as a physical description of movement—like a tree bending in the wind. By the 16th century, this physical bending was metaphorically applied to the mind, describing how a persuasive argument or powerful leader could make someone's opinions 'bend' or lean in a new direction.
Word relationships
- influence: Influence is a general term for affecting someone; sway suggests a more active, moving, or controlling power.
- bias: Bias implies a prejudice or unfair leaning, whereas sway is simply the act of moving or directing.
- remain firm: To remain firm is to resist any movement or change in opinion.
- repel: To repel is to actively push away influence.
Commonly confused with
- swing: Swing is a physical back-and-forth movement; sway can be physical but is more frequently used metaphorically for mental or political influence.
Word family
- swayed (verb): Past tense of sway; influenced.
- swaying (noun): The act of moving or influencing.
Collocations
- hold sway
- sway public opinion
- easily swayed
- under the sway of
Idioms & expressions
- hold sway
Example sentences
- "But mercy is above this sceptred sway; It is enthroned in the hearts of kings; It is an attribute to God himself." Portia's speech on mercy in Shakespeare's play.
Memory hook
Imagine a giant pendulum that sways back and forth, slowly pulling everyone's eyes and minds along with its movement. Sway is the wind that bends the mind.
When not to use
Do not use when describing absolute, rigid command (like military orders); sway is more fluid and persuasive.
Fun facts
- The idiom 'hold sway' dates back to the 1500s, originally referring to a monarch's physical sceptre controlling a kingdom.
- In meteorology, 'sway' is used to describe the lateral movement of tall buildings under wind loads.
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