What does “On the lam” mean?
"On the lam" means someone is running away or trying to escape from the authorities.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The fugitive has been on the lam for weeks.
Example
He went on the lam after robbing the bank.
Example
The criminal was finally caught after a year on the lam
Is “On the lam” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“On the lam” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “On the lam” effectively in context?
You can use "On the Lam" to describe someone who is running away or trying to escape from the authorities. It implies that the person is actively avoiding capture and is on the run. For example, if you hear about a criminal who has been evading the police, you might say, 'He's been on the lam for months.'
- 1Crime
The fugitive has been on the lam for weeks.
- 2Bank Robbery
He went on the lam after robbing the bank.
- 3Capture
The criminal was finally caught after a year on the lam.
Similar phrases to “On the lam”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “On the lam” come from?
The origin of the phrase "On the Lam" can be traced back to the early 20th century. 'Lam' is believed to be derived from the word 'lamb,' which was a slang term meaning to run away or escape. The phrase 'on the lam' was first used in the criminal underworld to describe fugitives who were evading capture by law enforcement.
Is “On the lam” common in everyday conversation?
While "On the Lam" may not be as commonly used as some other idioms, it is still recognizable and understood by native English speakers. It is often used in crime-related contexts or when discussing fugitives and escape.
What tone does “On the lam” have?
"On the Lam" conveys a tone of excitement and intrigue. It is often used in storytelling or when discussing thrilling events involving criminals and law enforcement.
Can “On the lam” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "On the Lam" is more commonly used in informal settings, such as casual conversations or storytelling. It may not be appropriate for formal or professional situations.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The suspect is on the lam and should be considered dangerous.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'He's been "on the lam"!' to imply that someone is evading capture.
