fox trot: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal (dance context), Specialized (equestrian context)
Quick answer
What does “fox trot” mean?
A specific type of ballroom dance characterized by a combination of slow and quick steps.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A specific type of ballroom dance characterized by a combination of slow and quick steps.
A general term for any fast, walking-like gait used by horses. The verb form means to dance the fox trot or to move with such a gait.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. Spelling: 'fox-trot' or 'foxtrot' is common in both, but the solid form 'foxtrot' is more prevalent in American dance publications.
Connotations
In both, it connotes a formal, traditional ballroom setting or a retro social atmosphere.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in UK due to the enduring popularity of ballroom dance competitions and media (e.g., Strictly Come Dancing).
Grammar
How to Use “fox trot” in a Sentence
[to] foxtrot [across the floor][to] dance a/the fox trot [with someone]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “fox trot” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- They foxtrotted beautifully across the gleaming parquet floor.
- Can you foxtrot, or shall we stick to a waltz?
American English
- We foxtrotted to the big band's final number.
- He expertly foxtrotted his partner into the spotlight.
adverb
British English
- Rarely used. Possibly: 'They moved foxtrot-smoothly around the room.' (poetic/inventive)
American English
- Rarely used. Possibly: 'She spun foxtrot-quick into his arms.' (poetic/inventive)
adjective
British English
- She wore a stunning foxtrot dress for the final.
- The foxtrot sequence was their weakest element.
American English
- The band played a classic foxtrot tune.
- He has a very smooth foxtrot style.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used. Could appear metaphorically: 'The merger negotiations proceeded with a careful foxtrot of offers and counteroffers.'
Academic
Used in Dance Studies, Performing Arts, and Equestrian Science contexts.
Everyday
Almost exclusively in the context of social dancing, weddings, or TV dance shows.
Technical
In equine veterinary science or horse training to describe a specific four-beat diagonal gait.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “fox trot”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “fox trot”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “fox trot”
- Using 'fox trot' as two separate words in formal dance writing (prefer 'foxtrot'). Confusing it with the 'quickstep'. Using it as a general synonym for 'walk quickly'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
All are seen, but 'foxtrot' as a single word is the most common modern spelling, especially for the dance. Dictionaries often list 'foxtrot' as the headword.
The foxtrot has a mix of slow and quick steps, giving it a more varied, sometimes romantic feel. The quickstep is faster and consists almost entirely of quick, syncopated steps and hops, making it livelier and more energetic.
Yes, it can. 'To foxtrot' means to dance the foxtrot. (e.g., 'They foxtrotted all night.')
The dance is named after its popularizer, the vaudeville performer Harry Fox, who in 1914 incorporated a 'trot' (a fast, short step) into his act. The name stuck for the dance that evolved from his style.
A specific type of ballroom dance characterized by a combination of slow and quick steps.
Fox trot is usually formal (dance context), specialized (equestrian context) in register.
Fox trot: in British English it is pronounced /ˈfɒks trɒt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈfɑːks trɑːt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “'Smooth as a foxtrot' (informal, referring to a very smooth operation)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a clever FOX doing a fancy TROT on its hind legs at a ball.
Conceptual Metaphor
SOPHISTICATED SOCIAL INTERACTION IS A STRUCTURED DANCE ('They foxtrotted around the difficult issue').
Practice
Quiz
In which field, outside of dance, might you encounter the term 'fox trot'?