The idiom "to the dozen" means at a rate or in a quantity of twelve. The number twelve has historically been used as a standard measure in various contexts, such as dozens of eggs or dozens of items. When "nineteen" or "ten" is added before it, it emphasizes a quantity far exceeding the standard dozen, suggesting an exceptionally high or rapid rate or quantity. This expression is used to describe a situation where something is happening at a very rapid or high rate, often implying that it is difficult to keep up with or control.

What is the origin of the idiom "to the dozen" and when to use it?

(nineteen|ten) to the dozen

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The idiom "slow as a snail" is a simile that has been in use for centuries. It is a straightforward comparison, likening the speed of something to that of a snail. Snails are known for their leisurely and deliberate pace, which makes them a common point of reference when describing something or someone that moves very slowly. This expression is used to describe a situation, action, or person that moves at an exceptionally slow or sluggish pace. It emphasizes a lack of speed or efficiency.

What is the origin of the idiom "slow as a snail" and when to use it?

(as|) slow as a snail

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The idiom "slow as molasses" originates from the fact that molasses, a thick and viscous syrup obtained from the processing of sugarcane or sugar beets, has a very slow and deliberate flow. The comparison to molasses emphasizes something that moves at an extremely sluggish or slow pace. This expression is used to describe a situation, action, or person that moves at an exceptionally slow or glacial pace. It underscores a significant lack of speed or efficiency.

What is the origin of the idiom "slow as molasses" and when to use it?

(as|) slow as molasses

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The idiom "by leaps and bounds" has its origins in the world of sports, particularly in athletic events like long jump or high jump. A "leap" refers to a long jump or a sudden burst of movement, while "bounds" refers to energetic and rapid movements. This expression is used to describe significant and rapid progress, growth, or improvement in a particular area. It emphasizes the idea of making substantial strides or advances.

What is the origin of the idiom "by leaps and bounds" and when to use it?

(by|in) leaps and bounds

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The idiom "fast and furious" is believed to have originated in English and has been in use for centuries. It combines two adjectives, "fast" and "furious," to describe something that is happening at a rapid and intense pace. The individual words themselves have long histories in the English language, and their combination creates a vivid and emphatic expression. This expression is used to describe a situation, action, or event that is occurring with great speed, intensity, energy, or enthusiasm. It conveys the idea of rapid and vigorous activity.

What is the origin of the idiom "fast and furious" and when to use it?

fast and furious

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The idiom "at lightning speed" draws its origin from the natural phenomenon of lightning, which is known for its incredible speed and suddenness. Lightning is one of the fastest and most rapid occurrences in nature, and this phrase likens something to the swiftness and abruptness of a lightning strike. This phrase is used to describe the rapidity and quickness of an action, event, or movement. It emphasizes the astonishingly fast pace at which something is happening.

What is the origin of the idiom "at lightning speed" and when to use it?

at lightning speed

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The idiom "like greased lightning" originates from the natural occurrence of lightning, which is known for its incredible speed and suddenness. This phrase is used to describe the extreme speed and quickness of an action, event, or movement.

What is the origin of the idiom "like greased lightning" and when to use it?

like greased lightning

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The idiom "like a bat out of hell" likely originated from the association of bats with darkness and their rapid, unpredictable flight patterns. Bats are known for their swift and agile flight, and the phrase conveys the idea of something or someone moving with extraordinary speed, urgency, or haste, as if escaping from a dangerous or chaotic situation. This idiomatic expression is used to describe something or someone moving extremely quickly, often with a sense of urgency or recklessness. It emphasizes the high speed and lack of restraint.

What is the origin of the idiom "like a bat out of hell" and when to use it?

like a bat out of hell

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The idiom "like the wind" has been used in English for centuries, likely originating from the observation of the speed and force of the wind. Wind can move swiftly and powerfully, and this phrase is a vivid way to describe something or someone moving with great speed. This expression is used to describe something or someone moving very swiftly and rapidly. It emphasizes the idea of high speed and often suggests a sense of agility or urgency.

What is the origin of the idiom "like the wind" and when to use it?

like the wind

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The idiom "pedal to the metal" originated from the world of driving and automotive racing, specifically referring to the act of pushing the accelerator pedal all the way to the floorboard. This action maximizes the engine's power and acceleration, allowing the vehicle to move at its fastest speed. This phrase is now used to convey the idea of pushing the vehicle one is driving to its absolute limit.

What is the origin of the idiom "pedal to the metal" and when to use it?

pedal to the metal

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The idiom "run like the wind" is rooted in the observation that the wind moves swiftly and with remarkable speed. This phrase likely emerged as a poetic and vivid way to describe someone running at a very high pace. It has been in use in English for a considerable period, drawing upon the natural imagery of the wind's swiftness. This expression is used to describe someone running or moving with exceptional speed, often implying a great sense of agility or urgency. It vividly conveys the idea of rapid motion.

What is the origin of the idiom "run like the wind" and when to use it?

to [run] like the wind

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The idiom "touch and go" originally had maritime origins, referring to a situation where a ship's keel would briefly touch the sea bottom before continuing its voyage. In this context, "touch" indicated the momentary contact with the seabed, and "go" signified that the ship could proceed safely. This phrase is used to describe movements or actions that occur quickly and with great speed and agility. It conveys the idea of something happening rapidly and effortlessly.

What is the origin of the idiom "touch and go" and when to use it?

touch and go

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The idiom "like a rat up a drainpipe" likely originated from the observation that rats are known for their ability to move quickly and easily through narrow spaces, including drainpipes. This comparison highlights someone or something moving rapidly and without hesitation, similar to how a rat can navigate through tight and challenging passages. This expression is used to describe someone or something that is moving swiftly and with great speed. It conveys the idea of rapid and agile movement.

What is the origin of the idiom "like a rat up a drainpipe" and when to use it?

like a rat up a drainpipe

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The idiom "hell for leather" is believed to have originated in the 19th century and likely comes from the world of horse racing. It describes a rider urging their horse to go as fast as possible by using a whip or spurs, often pushing the horse to its limits. This idiomatic phrase is used to describe someone or something moving or progressing at high speed, often with great determination and intensity. It conveys the idea of rapid and sometimes reckless movement.

What is the origin of the idiom "hell for leather" and when to use it?

hell for leather

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Explore English idioms regarding speed with examples like "at lightning speed" and "run like the wind".

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