PhrasesHub

racing like a steam engine

    Definitions

      • moving very fast
        Describing someone or something that is moving quickly or with great speed, often in a literal sense

      • working energetically
        Referring to someone who is working hard and with determination, often to accomplish a task or goal

    Examples of racing like a steam engine

    • The train hurtled down the tracks like a steam engine, its wheels thundering over metal rails.

      This idiom is used to describe something moving extremely quickly and with great force, like a steam engine that is racing at full speed. The train's fast and powerful movement is compared to that of a steam engine, which was once a common form of transportation before the rise of modern technology. The thundering sound of the wheels adds to the sense of speed and power, making it a vivid and descriptive image.

    • The sprinter dashed down the track, his legs pumping furiously, like a steam engine gaining speed.

      This idiom is used to describe the rapid and forceful movement of something, like a steam engine that is accelerating rapidly. The sprinter's quick and energetic movement is compared to that of a steam engine, which rapidly gains speed as it picks up momentum. The image of a steam engine gaining speed is powerful and forceful, adding to the excitement and intensity of the scene.

    • The economy is booming, with industry and commerce growing at breakneck speed, like a steam engine picking up momentum.

      This idiom is used to describe something growing or developing at a very rapid pace, like a steam engine that is gaining speed. The economy's rapid growth is compared to that of a steam engine that is picking up momentum, gaining speed and power with each passing moment. The image of a steam engine picking up momentum is powerful and dynamic, highlighting the excitement and intensity of this economic growth.

    • The journalist wrote a groundbreaking article that was published in every major newspaper overnight, like a steam engine bursting onto the scene.

      This idiom is used to describe something that suddenly and unexpectedly makes a significant impact, like a steam engine bursting onto the scene. The journalist's article, which quickly became a major news story, is compared to a steam engine breaking onto the scene with great force and power. The image of a steam engine bursting onto the scene is dynamic and dramatic, emphasizing the impact and significance of the journalist's article.

    • The train hurtled down the tracks at breakneck speed, racing like a steam engine towards its destination.

      This idiom, "racing like a steam engine," is used to describe something moving very quickly or at high speed. In the example, the train is moving so fast that it almost feels like a powerful steam engine of the past, racing towards its destination.

    • The sprinter dashed down the track, her legs pumping ferociously, racing like a steam engine towards the finish line.

      In this example, the sprinter is moving so quickly that she seems to be traveling at the speed of a steam engine. Her body moves with great force and energy, propelling her forward towards the finish line.

    • The stock market soared higher and higher, racing like a steam engine on a profitable ride.

      In this example, the stock market is moving quickly upwards, resembling a steam engine picking up speed as it gains momentum. This idiom is used to describe an unexpected or rapid increase in value or success.

    • The CEO's idea for the company's revival was a game-changer, racing like a steam engine towards a bright future.

      In this example, the idea is moving quickly towards a successful outcome, comparable to the speed of a steam engine. The company's future prospects look bright, much like the steam engine pulling into a bright and promising future.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "racing like a steam engine" is used to express both speed and determination. When someone is said to be racing like a steam engine, they are moving swiftly or working energetically towards a goal. It conveys a sense of urgency and determination in their actions, akin to the rapid and forceful nature of a steam engine in motion.

    This idiom is commonly used in contexts where individuals or objects are moving quickly or working diligently towards a specific objective. Whether it be in sports, work environments, or everyday tasks, "racing like a steam engine" highlights the intensity and focus with which someone is pursuing their endeavors.

    Origin of "racing like a steam engine"

    The origin of the idiom "racing like a steam engine" can be traced back to the industrial revolution when steam engines were a prominent mode of transportation and power source. Steam engines were known for their incredible speed and power, revolutionizing the way people traveled and worked during that time.

    Drawing inspiration from the rapid and forceful nature of steam engines, the idiom came to symbolize quick movement and energetic work ethic. Just as a steam engine could power through obstacles and cover long distances in a short amount of time, someone racing like a steam engine is seen as determined, efficient, and unstoppable in their pursuits. The idiom has since become a common phrase used to describe individuals or objects that exhibit a similar level of speed and determination in their actions.