dodge

/dɒdʒ/
verbIntermediate to avoid something quickly
informal

to move quickly to avoid something

The boxer dodged the punch and countered with a jab.

The boxer moved quickly to avoid the punch and then hit back.

He dodged the question by changing the subject.

He avoided answering the question by talking about something else.

💡

Can be used literally (physical movement) or figuratively (avoiding a topic).

Collocations

dodge a questionavoid answering a questiondodge a bulletavoid a dangerous or difficult situation

Related Phrases

dodge the draftphrase
avoid being conscripted into military service
dodge a bulletphrase
avoid a dangerous or difficult situation

💡Pro Tip

Common Usage

Use 'dodge' for quick, often physical avoidance, but it can also be used figuratively for avoiding topics or responsibilities.

Gold Rule

Physical vs. Figurative

Remember that 'dodge' can describe both physical movement (e.g., in sports) and avoiding abstract things (e.g., questions).

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'dodgen', possibly from Old Norse 'dauða' (to kill) or 'dauðr' (dead), suggesting a connection to avoiding death.

📝Usage Notes

Often used in sports, combat, or informal contexts to describe quick avoidance.

Word Breakdown

dodge
to move quickly to avoid
root
English Dictionary