Swing into action Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Immediate Response Use this phrase to describe a quick reaction to an urgent situation. When the power went out, the technicians swung into action to restore it. Pro Tip 2/3Active Initiative It implies taking active steps, not just planning or discussing. The community swung into action to clean up the park. Pro Tip 3/3Not Literal The phrase is metaphorical; it doesn't involve physical swinging. As the deadline approached, the whole team swung into action.