zwem

Zwem is the Dutch verb meaning to swim. The infinitive is zwemmen, and the present tense forms are ik zwem, jij zwemt, hij zwemt, wij zwemmen, jullie zwemmen, zij zwemmen. The noun het zwemmen refers to the activity of swimming. In everyday usage, zwemmen describes the act or skill of moving through water by propulsion of the limbs and coordinated breathing.

Etymology and language context: zwemmen and its related forms are Germanic in origin, with cognates in other West Germanic languages, including English. The term is widely used in both casual and formal Dutch to discuss swimming as an activity, sport, or skill.

Techniques and context: swimming encompasses several strokes, the most common being vrijeslag (freestyle), rugslag (backstroke), borstslag (breaststroke), and vlinderslag (butterfly). Mastery generally involves buoyancy, body position, breathing technique, and propulsion. Swimming is taught to children and beginners in schools and pools, and is practiced for fitness, recreation, and competition.

Safety and equipment: swimming safety emphasizes never swimming alone, adhering to lifeguard instructions, and using suitable flotation aids for beginners or open water. Common equipment includes zwemkleding (swimwear), zwembril (goggles), and sometimes een zwemcap (swim cap) or fins for training.

Sport and competition: swimming is a major international sport, featured in the Olympic Games and world championships. National associations organize events and training programs, and many countries maintain programs to improve safety, accessibility, and competitive opportunities in the sport.