like a bat out of hell - Moving very fast, often recklessly or in a hurried panic. This phrase traces its roots back to World War I, where it depicted the rapid and often chaotic flight of fighter planes. The phrase suggests a scene of almost supernatural speed, as if propelled by unseen forces.
Related and Similar Terms
- Like greased lightning: Extremely fast, smooth movement.
- Like a shot: Quickly and decisively, often from a starting point.
- Quick as a flash: Extremely rapid, capturing the essence of instantaneous action.
- Faster than a speeding bullet: Unequivocal speed, usually with a nod to Superman.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- In no time
- At breakneck speed
- Post-haste
- Swiftly
Antonyms:
- At a snail’s pace
- Languidly
- Leisurely
- Unhurriedly
Humor-filled Quotes and Proverbs
- “Move like a bat out of hell, unless it’s a buffet line—then take your time!”
- “Speed is life, moving like a bat out of hell is living dangerously!”
Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies References
- Song: “Bat Out of Hell” by Meat Loaf - An epic rock anthem that’s all about high-speed living.
- Movie: Mad Max: Fury Road - Relentless speed and chaos in a post-apocalyptic wasteland.
- Literature: Against the Fall of Night by Arthur C. Clarke - Much speed among the stars in this classic sci-fi tale.
Inspirational Thought-provoking Farewell
In a world that sometimes insists we move like a bat out of hell, take a moment to relish the journey, savor the seconds, and remember: while speed can thrill, it’s the purpose that truly propels. 🚀
### Which phrase signifies moving extremely fast?
- [x] Like a bat out of hell
- [ ] At a sloth's stroll
- [ ] Floating on a turtle's back
- [ ] Dancing in slow motion
> **Explanation:** "Like a bat out of hell" signifies extreme speed, in stark contrast to leisurely movement suggested by the other options.
### What origin does "like a bat out of hell" primarily trace back to?
- [x] World War I
- [ ] The Medieval era
- [ ] The Renaissance
- [ ] The Stone Age
> **Explanation:** This idiom primarily traces back to World War I, metaphorically capturing the quick, often reckless, flights of fighter planes.
### True or False: "Like a shot" is a synonym for "like a bat out of hell."
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** True. "Like a shot" metaphorically captures the same brisk, almost instantaneous movement.
### Which term means the opposite of "like a bat out of hell"?
- [ ] Like a lightning bolt
- [ ] Quick as a flash
- [ ] Rapid as a river
- [x] At a snail's pace
> **Explanation:** "At a snail's pace" means moving extremely slowly, the polar opposite of the rapid speed implied by "like a bat out of hell."
### Which artist's song shares the idiom "like a bat out of hell"?
- [x] Meat Loaf
- [ ] Elton John
- [ ] Michael Jackson
- [ ] Madonna
> **Explanation:** Meat Loaf's hit song "Bat Out of Hell" shares the idiom concerning extreme speed and intensity.
### Finish this idiom: Faster than ________?
- [x] a speeding bullet
- [ ] a whispering wind
- [ ] a creeping shadow
- [ ] a melting glacier
> **Explanation:** "Faster than a speeding bullet" is a common way to describe something remarkably speedy, like Superman!
