What does “Put the pedal to the metal” mean?
"Put the pedal to the metal" means to accelerate or go faster.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He put the pedal to the metal and raced down the highway.
Example
I was running late, so I put the pedal to the metal to get to work on time.
Example
The car zoomed past us as the driver put the pedal to the metal
Is “Put the pedal to the metal” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Put the pedal to the metal” 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 “Put the pedal to the metal” effectively in context?
You can use "Put the Pedal to the Metal" to describe someone accelerating or going faster, often in a determined or urgent manner. It is commonly used in the context of driving or any situation where speed or urgency is emphasized. For example, if you want to express that you are in a hurry, you might say, 'I need to put the pedal to the metal to catch my flight.'
- 1Driving
He put the pedal to the metal and raced down the highway.
- 2Being Late
I was running late, so I put the pedal to the metal to get to work on time.
- 3Speeding
The car zoomed past us as the driver put the pedal to the metal.
Similar phrases to “Put the pedal to the metal”:
Speed up
To increase speed or accelerate
Example
We need to speed up if we want to make it on time.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Put the pedal to the metal” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Put the Pedal to the Metal" is unknown.
Is “Put the pedal to the metal” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Put the Pedal to the Metal" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. It is frequently used to describe situations where someone accelerates or goes faster, often with a sense of urgency or determination.
What tone does “Put the pedal to the metal” have?
"Put the Pedal to the Metal" conveys a tone of speed, urgency, and determination. It is often used in a casual or informal context to emphasize the need for quick action or acceleration.
Can “Put the pedal to the metal” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Put the Pedal to the Metal" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that conveys the idea of accelerating or going faster. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
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, 'He decided to put the pedal to the metal and finish the race.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to put the pedal to the metal!' to imply the need for speed or urgency.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- accelerate
- pick up the pace
- race
- zoom
- go faster
- hurry up
Antonyms
- decelerate
- take it easy
- cruise
- slow down
- ease off