OpenSynonym

zag

/zæg/

NOUN

1. A sharp turn or change in direction

One of a series of abrupt turns or changes in direction, especially when moving along a zigzag path.

1.1. A sudden change in physical direction

An abrupt turn or deviation from a previous direction, often forming part of a zigzag movement or route.

Synonyms

  • turn
  • swerve
  • veer
  • bend
  • curve

Antonyms

  • straightening

Examples

  • The racecar driver's sudden zag helped avoid a collision.
  • The hiker followed the winding trail, navigating each zig and zag.

Related Words

1.2. A sudden reversal in a course of action

An unexpected change in direction, strategy, or behavior, particularly when someone chooses an opposite or contrasting approach.

Synonyms

Examples

  • The opponent expected a straight move, but the chess player made a zag instead.

Related Words

  • pivot
  • change of direction
  • switch
  • zig

NOUN

2. A twist or unexpected development in a storyline

An unexpected change in the direction or progression of a story or narrative.

2.1. An unexpected narrative turn

A surprising development or shift in a storyline that changes the direction of the plot or audience expectations.

Synonyms

  • twist
  • turn
  • reversal

Related Words

  • plot twist
  • development
  • zig
  • surprise

VERB

3. To move with a sharp turn or reversal

To move in a direction that changes abruptly, especially as part of an alternating or zigzag pattern.

3.1. Making an abrupt physical turn

Moving by suddenly changing direction, often to avoid an obstacle or follow a winding path.

Synonyms

  • swerve
  • veer
  • turn
  • deviate
  • curve

Antonyms

  • straighten

Examples

  • The racecar driver zagged to avoid the car in front.
  • The hiker zagged along the winding trail.

Related Words

3.2. Changing direction or strategy

Suddenly adopting a different or contrasting course of action, especially when an expected approach is deliberately reversed.

Synonyms

  • pivot
  • reverse
  • change course
  • switch

Examples

  • The chess player zagged when the opponent expected a straight move.

Related Words