PhrasesHub

Full steam ahead

    Definitions

      • to proceed with determination and energy
        To encourage someone to move forward with enthusiasm and determination, usually in the face of obstacles or challenges

      • at maximum speed or intensity
        To describe something that is moving or progressing very quickly or with a lot of energy, often used in a literal sense to describe a steam-powered engine

      • to move forward without hesitation or delay
        To describe someone who is confident and decisive in their actions, and does not let anything hold them back from achieving their goals

    Examples of Full steam ahead

    • The project is moving full steam ahead despite some setbacks.

      This idiom means that the project is progressing rapidly and without any delays or obstacles. The phrase "full steam ahead" originated from the nautical term "full steam," which refers to a ship moving at its maximum speed with all engines working at full capacity. In this context, it is used metaphorically to describe a project that is advancing quickly and without any hindrances.

    • The sales team is working full steam ahead to meet their targets for the quarter.

      This idiom means that the sales team is working diligently and tirelessly to achieve their sales goals for the quarter. The phrase "full steam ahead" implies that they are working at maximum capacity and are not allowing any distractions or delays to impede their progress.

    • The train is moving full steam ahead towards the station.

      This idiom is used literally in this context to describe a train moving at full speed towards its destination. The phrase "full steam ahead" is a nautical term that has been adapted to describe the speed and momentum of a train.

    • The athlete ran full steam ahead towards the finish line.

      This idiom is used metaphorically to describe the athlete's speed and determination as they approached the finish line. The phrase "full steam ahead" implies that the athlete was moving at maximum speed and was not allowing any obstacles or distractions to slow them down.

    • The CEO announced that the company is moving full steam ahead with its expansion plans.

      This idiom means that the company is proceeding rapidly and without any delays or obstacles with its expansion plans. The phrase "full steam ahead" implies that the company is committed to achieving its goals and is not allowing any setbacks or challenges to impede its progress.


    Conclusion

    The phrase "full steam ahead" is a commonly used idiom that has several meanings, all of which convey a sense of determination and energy. It can be used to encourage someone to move forward with enthusiasm and determination, to describe something that is moving quickly or with a lot of intensity, or to describe someone who is confident and decisive in their actions.

    In all of these meanings, there is a sense of not holding back and pushing forward with determination and energy. This can be seen in the use of the word "steam", which is often associated with power and energy. The phrase is often used in a positive context, encouraging people to persevere and not let obstacles stand in their way.

    Origin of "Full steam ahead"

    The origin of the idiom "full steam ahead" can be traced back to the early 19th century, when steam-powered engines were a common mode of transportation. The phrase was often used to describe the speed and power of these engines, which could move at maximum speed without hesitation.

    Over time, the phrase became more widely used and was eventually adopted into everyday language as an idiom. Today, it is used in a variety of contexts, but still carries the connotation of moving forward with determination and energy.