Swipe Right: Definition, Meaning and Origin

Last Updated on
June 9, 2023

The idiom "swipe right" typically refers to the action of liking or expressing interest in someone on a dating app by swiping their photo to the right. However, it's also used metaphorically to denote showing approval or preference for something.

In short:

"Swipe right" represents a positive response, indicating attraction, interest, or approval.

What Does "Swipe Right" Mean?

The phrase suggests that you approve of or are attracted to something or someone. On dating apps like Tinder, you swipe right on someone's photo to like them and potentially match with them.

Metaphorically, swiping right represents choosing or preferring something. For example, you might swipe right on a job opportunity, a movie suggestion, a fashion trend, or a potential partner.

Let's explore its core meanings:

  • People use it in the context of online dating, indicating interest or attraction.
  • Metaphorically, it denotes approval or agreement with an idea, trend, or suggestion.
  • Originally an online dating term, its usage has since expanded to cover various aspects of digital culture.

Where Does "Swipe Right" Come From?

The term "swipe right" originates from the dating app Tinder, which launched in 2012. The idiom represents the action users take when they are interested in someone they see on the app. Swiping right indicates interest or attraction, while swiping left indicates disinterest or rejection.

Historical Example

"Swipe right if you're interested, swipe left if you're not."

- Tinder's User Guide, 2012

10 Examples of "Swipe Right" in Sentences

Here are some examples of using the idiom in sentences:

  • I would definitely swipe right on that job opportunity - it seems like a perfect fit for me.
  • That offer seems too good to be true. I'll swipe right, but what's the catch?
  • I'm going to swipe right on that fashion trend; it looks cool and stylish.
  • I'd swipe right on adopting a pet - it's a great way to find companionship and give an animal a home.
  • I would swipe right on that job offer in a heartbeat. How about you?
  • As a foodie, I would swipe right on trying out that new restaurant downtown.
  • Kidding aside, I would swipe right on the idea of learning a new language.
  • After swiping right on his photo, he keeps spamming me with funny memes.
  •  I always swipe right on minimalist designs because less is more.
  • I decided to swipe right on volunteering at the local shelter - it seems like a rewarding experience.

Examples of "Swipe Right" in Pop Culture

The phrase "swipe right" has found its place in popular culture, often illustrating the contemporary dating scene's digitization.

Let's examine some examples:

  • Swipe Right by Khaley Fenn is a heartwarming and amusing book that delves into the contemporary dating landscape, examining both its delights and difficulties.
  • Swipe Right: Choosing Your Financial Match is a book by Daniel Jack and Derek Woods that explains how important our emotional responses to financial decision-making are.
  • Swipe Right for Murder (2017) is a gripping TV series that explores the potential dangers of online dating. The series delves into real-life love stories that tragically ended in disaster.

Other/Different Ways to Say "Swipe Right"

There are a few alternative expressions that convey a similar meaning to "swipe right."

Here are some of them:

  • Give a thumbs up
  • Show interest
  • Approve
  • Like
  • Endorse
  • Choose
  • Select
  • Pick
  • Go for
  • Opt for
  • Be into
  • Be attracted to
  • Fancy
  • Prefer

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Swipe Right":

  • What does "swipe right" mean?

"Swipe right" generally signifies showing interest, approval, or attraction towards someone or something.

  • How can I use "swipe right" in a sentence?

You can use "swipe right" to express agreement, interest, or approval. For example, "I would swipe right on that new sci-fi series."

  • Where does the idiom "swipe right" come from?

The term originated from the dating app Tinder, where users swipe right on profiles they're interested in.

  • Is the phrase only applicable in the context of dating?

While it originated in the context of dating, it's now metaphorically used to indicate approval or interest in general.

  • Can you use it in a professional context?

While it's generally used in a more informal or colloquial context, it can be used metaphorically in a professional setting to express approval or interest.

  • Does "swipe right" imply a commitment?

Not necessarily. Swiping right simply indicates initial interest or approval, not a commitment or agreement.

  • Can you use it in a negative context?

Typically, "swipe right" has positive connotations of approval or interest. If used in a negative context, it would usually be to express a failure to swipe right, or disinterest.

  • Is "swipe right" used globally?

Yes, as it originated from Tinder, a global online dating app, "swipe right" is understood and used internationally.

  • Is "swipe right" appropriate to use in academic writing?

Given its informal and modern nature, "swipe right" might not be appropriate for academic writing, which typically requires more formal and traditional language.

  • Can "swipe right" refer to a decision or choice?

Yes, "swipe right" can metaphorically refer to making a decision, choice, or showing preference towards any option or proposal.

Final Thoughts About "Swipe Right"

The idiom "swipe right" captures a significant shift in modern interaction and decision-making, primarily in the context of digital dating. However, it is increasingly used in broader contexts to express approval or interest.

Here's a quick recap:

  • The phrase often signifies expressing interest or approval, originally in the context of choosing potential dates on dating apps.
  • The idiom has its roots in the emergence of digital dating platforms in the mid-2010s.
  • While the term was initially associated with dating, its use has broadened to denote any form of approval or preference.

The phrase "swipe right" embodies our evolving digital culture and the new ways we express preferences and make decisions. As it continues to permeate everyday language, it's a fascinating marker of how technology impacts our expressions and idioms.

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