leapt

A cat leapt from the fence onto the soft grass.

Definition

1. Verb (past tense of "leap"):
   • To jump or spring a long distance: "leapt" describes the action of moving quickly off the ground, often over an obstacle or to a higher position.
   • To move suddenly or swiftly: It can also indicate a rapid or abrupt change in position, state, or activity.

Usage Examples

• (She jumped across the puddle.)
• (The cat sprang onto the table.)
• (He eagerly accepted the opportunity without hesitation.)
• (I felt a sudden surge of emotion, such as excitement or surprise.)

Advanced Usage

• "leapt to mind": to come to one's thoughts suddenly.

  • A solution leapt to mind as soon as I read the problem. (A solution appeared in my thoughts immediately.)

• "leapt to one's feet": to stand up quickly.

  • The audience leapt to their feet and applauded. (The audience stood up suddenly to show appreciation.)

Variants and Related Words

• Leap (verb, present form): to jump.

  • He can leap three metres in a single bound. (He can jump a distance of three metres.)

• Leap (noun): a jump or sudden movement.

  • The deer took a giant leap across the stream. (The deer made a large jump.)

• Leaper (noun): a person or thing that leaps.

  • The horse is a natural leaper over fences. (The horse is skilled at jumping.)

Synonyms

• Jumped: moved off the ground by pushing with the legs.
• Vaulted: jumped over something using hands or a pole for support.
• Spring: moved suddenly and forcefully upward or forward.

Phrasal Verbs

• Leap at: to accept something eagerly.

  • She leapt at the invitation to join the team. (She accepted the invitation with enthusiasm.)

• Leap out: to be very noticeable or prominent.

  • The error leapt out at me from the page. (The error was immediately obvious.)

Related Idioms

• Look before you leap: to think carefully before acting.

  • Before investing your savings, remember to look before you leap. (Consider the risks before making a decision.)

• By leaps and bounds: very quickly or dramatically.

  • Her English has improved by leaps and bounds since she started studying. (Her progress has been rapid and significant.)