What does “Take A Powder” mean?
"Take a powder" means to leave or disappear quickly and suddenly.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He got into an argument and decided to take a powder before things got worse.
Example
I was feeling overwhelmed at the party, so I decided to take a powder and go home early.
Example
The suspect saw the police approaching and quickly took a powder down the alley
Is “Take A Powder” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Take A Powder” 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 “Take A Powder” effectively in context?
You can use "Take A Powder" to describe someone leaving or disappearing quickly and suddenly. It implies a sense of urgency or the need to escape from a situation. For example, if a friend is in a heated argument and wants to avoid further conflict, you might say, 'Why don't you just take a powder and cool off?'
- 1Conflict
He got into an argument and decided to take a powder before things got worse.
- 2Feeling overwhelmed
I was feeling overwhelmed at the party, so I decided to take a powder and go home early.
- 3Evading capture
The suspect saw the police approaching and quickly took a powder down the alley.
Similar phrases to “Take A Powder”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Take A Powder” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Take A Powder" is unknown.
Is “Take A Powder” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Take A Powder" is a relatively common idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe someone leaving abruptly or disappearing without notice.
What tone does “Take A Powder” have?
"Take A Powder" conveys a tone of suddenness and urgency. It suggests a quick and immediate departure from a situation.
Can “Take A Powder” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Take A Powder" is more commonly used in informal settings. It may not be as appropriate in formal or professional contexts.
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 take a powder and leave the party.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "take a powder"!' to imply the need to leave quickly.
