Sideswipe
verb
To hit something or someone on the side, especially in a car collision.
The car sideswiped the parked vehicle on the street.
Usage tips
Neutral
car accident, traffic collision, fender bender
verb
To criticize or attack someone in a subtle or indirect manner.
His sideswipe at her performance was noted by everyone in the room.
Usage tips
Informal
cheap shot, jab, dig
verb
To hit something or someone on the side, especially in a car collision.
The car sideswiped the parked vehicle on the street.
Usage tips
Neutral
car accident, traffic collision, fender bender
verb
To criticize or attack someone in a subtle or indirect manner.
His sideswipe at her performance was noted by everyone in the room.
Usage tips
Informal
cheap shot, jab, dig
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/2Collision Context
In traffic or driving scenarios, ‘sideswipe’ refers specifically to a type of accident where one vehicle hits another's side.
He caused a sideswipe when he changed lanes without checking.
Pro Tip 2/2Figurative Use
The term can also be used to describe a verbal or emotional attack, often unexpected or underhanded.
Her comments felt like a sideswipe at my abilities.
Pro Tip 1/2Collision Context
In traffic or driving scenarios, ‘sideswipe’ refers specifically to a type of accident where one vehicle hits another's side.
He caused a sideswipe when he changed lanes without checking.
Pro Tip 2/2Figurative Use
The term can also be used to describe a verbal or emotional attack, often unexpected or underhanded.
Her comments felt like a sideswipe at my abilities.
Pro Tip 1/2Collision Context
In traffic or driving scenarios, ‘sideswipe’ refers specifically to a type of accident where one vehicle hits another's side.
He caused a sideswipe when he changed lanes without checking.
Pro Tip 2/2Figurative Use
The term can also be used to describe a verbal or emotional attack, often unexpected or underhanded.
Her comments felt like a sideswipe at my abilities.
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