Beat a (hasty/quick) retreat, to: To withdraw, back down, or reverse course, usually without delay. The term finds its roots in military practices. Let’s dive in with a sporadic beat of our metaphorical drums and explore with wit and wisdom!
Similar Terms 💡
- Backpedal: To rapidly reverse one’s previous position or opinion.
- Chicken out: To withdraw from something in a cowardly manner.
- Tactical retreat: A strategic withdrawal to avoid defeat.
Related Expression
- To eat humble pie: To make a humble apology and accept humiliation.
- To throw in the towel: To give up and admit defeat, akin to a boxing match.
Synonyms & Antonyms 🕵️♀️
- Synonyms: Pull back, withdraw, back off, back out.
- Antonyms: Advance, proceed, forge ahead.
Humor-Filled Quote 😂
“Why did the tomato turn red? Because it saw the salad dressing! And then it decided to beat a hasty retreat!”
Literature, Books, and More 📚
- Literature: The Art of War by Sun Tzu. Though not humorous, it’s filled with strategic wisdom, including the necessity of strategic retreats.
- Books: Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson motivates embracing change rather than retreating from it.
- Movies: Monty Python and the Holy Grail features “brave Sir Robin” who notably beat a very hasty retreat.
Inspirational Thought 💭
“Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is to walk away with grace. After all, it’s not just about avoiding harm but finding the right time to step forward again.”
### Which of these is a real expression?
- [x] Beat a hasty retreat
- [ ] March like an orangutan
- [ ] Run like a potato
- [ ] Swim with shoes on
> **Explanation:** "Beat a hasty retreat" is a commonly known expression meaning to withdraw quickly. The others sound more like exercises one might dream during a bizarre REM cycle.
### Which term best matches 'beat a hasty retreat'?
- [ ] Advance with valor
- [ ] Stand your ground
- [x] Pull back
- [ ] Play leapfrog
> **Explanation:** To 'pull back' is another way of saying to retreat quickly, aligning perfectly with our idiom of the day.
### What does 'strategic retreat' imply?
- [ ] Gaining territory
- [ ] Standing still
- [x] Withdrawing for tactical reasons
- [ ] Celebrating victory
> **Explanation:** A strategic retreat involves withdrawing to a better position for tactical reasons, rather than outright surrender.
### True or False: 'Chicken out' is a synonym for 'beat a hasty retreat'?
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** Absolutely true! 'Chicken out' reflects withdrawing due to fear, just as 'beating a hasty retreat' involves a quick exit.
👋 Until next time, remember: Even a retreat can be a step forward if you turn it into an opportunity for growth and learning.
— Perry T. Quips, October 7, 2023
