Flinging: meaning, definitions and examples

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flinging

[ˈflɪŋɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

in a physical sense

Throw or hurl forcefully. Move or push (something) suddenly or violently.

Synonyms

cast, hurl, throw, toss.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
flinging	Use when emphasizing a rapid, impetuous, or careless motion. It often implies a lack of precision or control. She was flinging her arms in frustration He flung his backpack onto the couch
throw	A general term for propelling something through the air with your hand. Suitable for most casual situations. Can you throw me the ball? She threw a party for her friend's birthday
hurl	Best used when describing a forceful throw, often with a sense of aggression or anger. This word can have a negative connotation. In a fit of rage, he hurled the book across the room Protesters were hurling stones at the police
toss	Used when referring to a light or casual throw, often with a sense of ease or playfulness. He tossed the keys onto the table She tossed her hair back and laughed
cast	Suitable for situations where you are throwing something with a specific intention or target in mind, often used in fishing or spells. He cast the fishing line into the water The wizard cast a spell over the village

Examples of usage

He flung his bag onto the bed.
She flung open the door and ran out.
The wind was so strong that it flung debris everywhere.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

in a figurative sense

Express (oneself) or behave in a specific manner with great energy or enthusiasm.

Synonyms

devote, immerse, throw oneself into.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
flinging	This word is typically used in aggressive or emotional situations where something is being thrown with force. It can imply a sudden or careless action. He was so angry that he ended up flinging his phone across the room
devote	This word is used in a positive context to show dedication and commitment to a specific task, person, or cause. She decided to devote her life to helping the less fortunate
immerse	This word is used when someone is deeply involved or fully engaged in an activity or interest, often to the exclusion of other things. He loves to immerse himself in reading science fiction novels on weekends
throw oneself into	This phrase is used when someone energetically and enthusiastically involves themselves in an activity or task. It often implies a sense of passion or urgency. After receiving the project brief, she threw herself into the work with great enthusiasm

Examples of usage

He flung himself into his work with dedication.
She flung herself into the dance routine.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

informal

A vigorous or energetic movement.

Synonyms

action, gesture, movement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
flinging	Refers to throwing something with force or in a careless manner. Often has a sense of suddenness or lack of control. He was flinging his arms around in excitement. She got angry and started flinging her books across the room.
gesture	Describes a movement of a part of the body, especially a hand or the head, to express an idea or meaning. He made a rude gesture to the driver who cut him off. The teacher's gesture indicated that she wanted the students to listen.
movement	General term for the act of moving or changing position. Can be used in various contexts, including physical actions, social phenomena, and art. The movement of the dance was mesmerizing. There is a growing movement for climate change awareness.
action	Used to describe anything that someone does or any activity that involves movement or effort. Her actions spoke louder than words. The committee is planning to take action against the policy.

Examples of usage

She danced with a fling in her step.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'fling' originated in Middle English from the word 'flengen,' which meant to throw.
It has roots in the Old Norse word 'flengja,' meaning to throw or hurl.
The word evolved over time, keeping its energetic essence in various languages.

Pop Culture

Flinging is often seen in sports, especially in games like basketball or baseball where players need to throw the ball quickly.
In movies and cartoons, characters often fling objects (like food or toys) for comic effect, making it a fun and humorous action.
The term 'fling' is also used in casual contexts to describe short-lived romantic relationships, reflecting spontaneity.

Psychology

Throwing objects can be a stress-relief action, allowing individuals to release pent-up energy and frustration.
Engaging in physical activities like flinging can stimulate endorphin release, contributing to feelings of happiness.
The act of flinging something might symbolize a desire to let go of control or to express freedom in one’s actions.

Sports and Recreation

Flinging is an essential skill in many sports, such as discus or javelin, where athletes must use technique for maximum distance.
In frisbee golf, players must fling the disc accurately to reach their target in as few throws as possible.
The concept of flinging also comes into play in outdoor games like cornhole, where players toss bean bags toward a target.

Art and Expression

In art, 'flinging' paint has been used by abstract expressionists like Jackson Pollock to create dynamic and spontaneous works.
Some dance forms involve flinging the arms and legs to express freedom and emotion, highlighting the physicality in performance.
Flings of color or material in visual arts can symbolize chaos, movement, and spontaneity, captivating the viewer’s attention.

Translations

Translations of the word "flinging" in other languages:

🇵🇹 lançando

🇮🇳 फेंकना

🇩🇪 werfen

🇮🇩 melempar

🇺🇦 кидати

🇵🇱 rzucanie

🇯🇵 投げる (nageru)

🇫🇷 lancer

🇪🇸 lanzar

🇹🇷 fırlatma

🇰🇷 던지기 (deonjigi)

🇸🇦 رمي (rami)

🇨🇿 házení

🇸🇰 hádzanie

🇨🇳 投掷 (tóuzhí)

🇸🇮 metanje

🇮🇸 kasta

🇰🇿 лақтыру

🇬🇪 სროლა (srola)

🇦🇿 atma

🇲🇽 lanzar

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,999, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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20996 hemmed
20997 innovators
20998 recoup
20999 flinging
21000 unobtrusive
21001 demography
21002 authoritatively
...