hop
This word suggests a light, bouncy, and often playful movement. It lacks the power or distance associated with leaping or jumping, instead evoking a sense of agility and brevity. It is frequently used to describe small animals or the unsteady movement of someone with a leg injury.
In a travel context, the word takes on a specific professional connotation referring to short flights between cities. This usage shifts the feeling from physical exertion to logistical efficiency, describing a quick transition from one hub to another.
Countable when referring to a single jump or a short trip (a hop). Uncountable when referring to the general action of hopping.
Meanings
Phrasal Verbs
hop over
to jump across a barrier or obstacle
She had to hop over the fence to get into the garden.
hop on
to board a vehicle, typically a bus or train, quickly
I will hop on the next train to the city.
hop off
to leave a vehicle quickly
We decided to hop off the bus at the next stop.
hop around
to jump from one place to another in a disorganized way
The excited puppy began to hop around the living room.
hop along
to move forward by making a series of small jumps
The injured bird tried to hop along the pavement.