zig-zag
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: 1. Having short sharp turns or angles: Describes a line, path, pattern, or course that consists of a series of sharp, alternating turns in opposite directions, resembling the letter "Z".
Usage
The adjective "zig-zag" is used to describe the shape or direction of something. It typically comes before a noun. * The car followed the zig-zag road up the mountain. * She cut the paper with zig-zag scissors. * The lightning made a zig-zag pattern across the sky.
Examples
- The hikers navigated a zig-zag trail through the dense forest.
- The child drew a zig-zag line across the page.
- The general ordered a zig-zag course for the ship to avoid enemy torpedoes.
Advanced Usage
- Used adverbially: While primarily an adjective, "zig-zag" can informally function as an adverb to describe the manner of an action.
- The rabbit ran zig-zag across the field to escape the fox.
- Figurative use: Can describe a non-linear process or sequence of events.
- The negotiations took a zig-zag path before an agreement was finally reached.
Variants and Related Words
- Zigzag (noun): A line or course having sharp alternate right and left turns.
- The stitch pattern was a series of tight zigzags.
- Zigzag (verb): To move or proceed in a zigzag course.
- The skier zigzagged down the slope.
- Zigzagged (adjective/verb past tense): Describes something that has a zigzag pattern or moved in a zigzag manner.
- The zigzagged seam was very decorative.
Synonyms
- Serpentine
- Meandering (though this implies gentler curves)
- Winding
- Twisting
Antonyms
- Straight
- Direct
- Linear
Related Idioms and Phrases
- Zigzag pattern: A common phrase emphasizing the specific alternating design.
- The fabric featured a bold red and white zigzag pattern.
- In a zigzag: A phrase describing movement or arrangement.
- The cones were set up in a zigzag for the driving test.
Adjective
- having short sharp turns or angles