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Debpriya De Posted 15 years ago
Grammar

Switch

1. To throw a switch.
2. To flick a switch.
3. To flip a switch.
4. To press a switch.
Do all these expressions mean the same ?
When we talk about pressing or flicking a switch, do we specify whether we have flicked it up or down ?
  

Top answer

Yes, they all suggest the same activity, though perhaps not the same action. #1 is general; #2 & #3 are the same action; #4 is a different action. These actions depend on the design of the switch.

— Mister Micawber

  • Yes, they all suggest the same activity, though perhaps not the same action.
  • #1 is general; #2 & #3 are the same action; #4 is a different action.
  • These actions depend on the design of the switch.
  • You needn't say whether you flicked/flipped/switched it up or down, but you may if you like.
  • You can also say you flicked/flipped/switched it on or off.
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3 Answers
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Yes, they all suggest the same activity, though perhaps not the same action. #1 is general; #2 & #3 are the same action; #4 is a different action. These actions depend on the design of the switch.

You needn't say whether you flicked/flipped/switched it up or down, but you may if you like. You can also say you flicked/flipped/switched it on or off.
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Thanks MM,
Is it correct that we "throw" a switch only when it is a big switch having a lever-like structure, whereas we "flick" or "flip" normal switches ?
Also, does "throwing" refer to only "switching something off" or can it also mean "to switch something on" ?
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Yes, you can throw a big switch on or off, and that is how it is often used, but I commented that the verb was general, and it is also used in a general sense (i.e. irrespective of the type of switch) when the breaking of the circuit rather than the type of switch is the thought.
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