PhrasesHub

Full tilt

    Definitions

      • at maximum speed or intensity
        To do something with great energy and effort, often in a reckless or uncontrolled manner. Can refer to physical movement or emotional/mental intensity.

      • at full capacity or power
        To operate or function at the highest possible level. Can refer to a machine, system, or person's capabilities.

      • to the greatest extent possible
        To go all out or give something one's full effort and attention. Can refer to work, play, or any other activity.

    Examples of Full tilt

    • The staff was working full tilt to meet the tight deadline.

      This example shows how the idiom "full tilt" is used to describe a situation where people are working extremely hard and quickly in order to complete a task by a specific deadline. It suggests that the effort being put in is intense and focused.

    • Jake was playing video games full tilt until the early hours of the morning.

      In this example, "full tilt" is used to describe an intense and focused activity, in this case, playing video games. The idiom suggests that Jake was fully immersed in the game and gave it his undivided attention until a late hour.

    • The train drove full tilt through the station.

      Here, the idiom "full tilt" is used to describe something moving at a very fast speed. It suggests that the train was traveling at an incredibly high speed through the station.

    • Jane's presentation was a huge success, she nailed it full tilt!

      This example illustrates the use of "full tilt" to describe a successful outcome. It suggests that Jane's presentation was executed flawlessly and left a strong impression on the audience. The idiom implies that she gave it her all and the presentation was of highest quality.

    • She's working on the project full tilt, which means she's working on it as hard and as fast as possible without any breaks or pauses.

      The idiom "full tilt" refers to going at maximum speed or effort. It's often used in reference to machines or vehicles that are operating at full power or capacity. However, in this context, it's being used to describe someone who is working with unrestrained energy and focus.

    • The salesman gave his pitch full tilt, hoping to close the deal before the end of the day.

      Here, "full tilt" is being used to describe the intensity and speed with which the salesman is delivering his presentation. It implies that he is putting in his best effort to persuade the potential customer to make a purchase.

    • The car zoomed down the highway at full tilt, leaving other vehicles in its dust.

      In this example, "full tilt" is being used to describe the speed and acceleration of the car. It suggests that the vehicle is moving as quickly as possible without any obstacles or impediments.

    • The band played their instruments at full tilt, creating a deafening rock concert.

      Here, "full tilt" is being used to describe the volume and intensity of the music being created by the band. It suggests that they are playing their instruments with great force and speed, resulting in a loud and energetic performance.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "full tilt" is often used to convey a sense of maximum or extreme effort or intensity. It can refer to physical movement, such as running or driving, as well as emotional or mental intensity, such as working or playing with all one's energy and focus. It can also indicate operating at the highest possible level, whether it be a machine, system, or person's capabilities.

    In all contexts, the phrase suggests a sense of urgency and determination, often with a hint of recklessness or lack of control. It can also imply a disregard for potential consequences or a willingness to take risks in pursuit of a goal.

    Origin of "Full tilt"

    The origin of the idiom "full tilt" can be traced back to jousting tournaments in medieval Europe. The phrase comes from the sport of jousting, where knights would charge at each other on horseback with their lances at full speed in an attempt to knock their opponent off their horse. This intense and risky maneuver was referred to as "tilting" and when done at maximum speed it was called "full tilt."

    Over time, the phrase became more widely used to describe any activity done with great speed and force. It is now commonly used in a figurative sense to convey a similar sense of intensity and effort.