Stop on a dime: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Stop on a dime” mean?

"Stop on a dime" means to have the ability to come to a sudden stop.

What context can I use the in?

Example

The car was able to stop on a dime to avoid hitting the pedestrian.

Example

The athlete has incredible agility and can stop on a dime during a game.

Example

The roller coaster ride was so thrilling that it felt like it could stop on a dime at any moment

Is “Stop on a dime” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Stop on a dime” 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 “Stop on a dime” effectively in context?

You can use "Stop on a Dime" to describe something or someone that is able to come to a sudden stop with great precision and control. It emphasizes the idea of stopping quickly and effortlessly. For example, if you see a car narrowly avoid an accident by stopping suddenly, you might say, 'Wow, that car was able to stop on a dime!'

• 1. Driving

  The car was able to stop on a dime to avoid hitting the pedestrian.

• 2. Sports

  The athlete has incredible agility and can stop on a dime during a game.

• 3. Thrill Rides

  The roller coaster ride was so thrilling that it felt like it could stop on a dime at any moment.

Similar phrases to “Stop on a dime”:

Hit the brakes

To suddenly apply the brakes of a vehicle to stop quickly

Example

He had to hit the brakes to stop the car from colliding with the truck.

Come to a screeching halt

To stop suddenly and with a loud screeching sound

Example

The car came to a screeching halt just inches away from the pedestrian.

Slam on the brakes

To forcefully and suddenly apply the brakes of a vehicle to stop quickly

Example

She had to slam on the brakes to avoid hitting the animal crossing the road.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Stop on a dime” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Stop on a Dime" is unknown.

Is “Stop on a dime” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Stop on a Dime" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe quick and precise stopping in various contexts.

What tone does “Stop on a dime” have?

"Stop on a Dime" conveys a tone of admiration and amazement. It is used to highlight impressive stopping ability and agility.

Can “Stop on a dime” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "stop on a dime" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that describes sudden and precise stopping. 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, 'The car was able to stop on a dime to avoid the accident.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Stop on a dime!' to express surprise or admiration for someone's quick stopping ability.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• halt abruptly
• come to an abrupt stop
• stop suddenly
• brake suddenly

Antonyms

• gradual stop
• slow down
• ease off the brakes