The phrasal verb "zip around" is primarily used in informal contexts, reflecting energetic or rapid movement from place to place. It's typically employed to describe someone or something that is moving quickly and with agility within a specific area, often conveying an image of lively activity. Commonly used in everyday conversation, it might describe a person rushing through tasks or errands, such as "She zipped around the office, organizing everything for the meeting." This phrasal verb carries a positive connotation, suggesting efficiency and vitality. It's less likely to appear in formal writing or speech, where alternatives like "move rapidly" might be more commonly used. "Zip around" can also describe the movement of non-human entities like vehicles or machinery, adding to its versatility in casual descriptions of speed and efficiency.
B1
PreIntermediate
1. To move swiftly or energetically from one place to another.
She zipped around the office finishing her tasks before the meeting.
The children zipped around the park, playing tag and laughing.
2. To travel quickly between various places, often in succession or without long stops.
He spent the afternoon zipping around town, running errands.
Tourists often zip around the city using public transportation.