leap
/liːp/to jump or move suddenly and quickly
She leaped over the puddle to avoid getting wet.
She jumped over the puddle to avoid getting wet.
Often used to describe a sudden, energetic movement.
a significant or sudden advance or improvement
The company made a leap in technology with its new product.
The company made a significant advance in technology with its new product.
Used metaphorically to describe progress or improvement.
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💡Pro Tip
Physical vs. Metaphorical Use
'Leap' can describe both physical jumps and metaphorical advances. Context helps determine the meaning.
⚡Gold Rule
Verb vs. Noun
As a verb, 'leap' requires an object (e.g., 'leap over'). As a noun, it can stand alone (e.g., 'a leap of faith').
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'lepen', from Old English 'hlēapan', meaning 'to jump or spring'. Related to Old Norse 'hlaupa' and German 'laufen' (to run).
📝Usage Notes
As a verb, 'leap' often implies a sudden, energetic movement. As a noun, it can refer to both a physical jump and a metaphorical advance.