blast off: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘blast off’ mean?
The idiom "blast off" means to start or begin an activity or event with a sudden and intense force or energy, similar to a rocket launching into space.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "storm out of the blocks" refers to starting something quickly and forcefully, often with a burst of energy, just like a sprinter who quickly accelerates off the starting line in a race.
The idiom "dynamite charge" refers to a situation or event that is highly explosive or likely to cause a significant impact. It conveys the idea of immense power and potential danger, often used metaphorically to describe a person or thing with great potential for success or destruction.
The idiom "drop the bomb" means to reveal or disclose something shocking or important, often causing surprise or chaos.
The idiom "drop a bombshell" means to reveal surprising or shocking news or information that has a powerful and disruptive impact.
The idiom "drop a bomb" means to reveal or disclose a shocking or surprising piece of information or news. It is often used to describe the act of sharing unexpected and significant revelations.
When used as an idiom, "drive off" means to leave quickly or abruptly in a vehicle. It is often used to describe someone leaving a place in a hurry.
The idiom "buzz off" is used to tell someone to go away or leave you alone in an impolite way.
The idiom "burst out laughing" means to suddenly start laughing loudly or uncontrollably.
The idiom "bundle off" means to hurry or leave quickly, often with an enthusiastic or excited attitude. It implies a sense of urgency and haste in departing from a place or situation.
The idiom "break out" means to escape or start suddenly. It is often used to describe a sudden occurrence or a sudden escape from a place or situation.
Interstellar Launch
The idiom "blast off" originated from the world of space exploration and is used to describe the act of launching a rocket or spacecraft into space. The phrase carries connotations of power, excitement, and the beginning of a journey. "Blast" refers to a sudden and powerful explosion or release of energy, while "off" denotes the movement away from a specific location or starting point.
This idiom gained popularity during the mid-20th century with the advent of space travel. It became closely associated with the countdown and launch sequences of rockets, especially those conducted by NASA. The image of a rocket propelling into space captures the spirit of exploration, pushing boundaries, and venturing into the unknown.
Metaphorically, "blast off" is often used to describe energetic or dramatic departures in various contexts. It can signify the start of an action-packed adventure, the beginning of an exciting new project, or the commencement of a thrilling performance or event. The power and energy implicit in the idiom convey a sense of anticipation and momentum, suggesting the idea of embarking on a voyage with the expectation of reaching new heights or achieving significant goals.
In addition to "blast off," there are other idioms related to the concept of starting or launching with force and energy. One such idiom is "blast out," which carries the connotation of forcefully pushing or expelling something. When used metaphorically, it can describe the act of completing a task or making a strong impression in a bold and energetic manner.
Another related idiom is "storm out of the blocks," which is commonly used in athletics. It refers to a sprinter who starts a race with great speed and agility, bursting out of the starting blocks with force and determination. This idiom signifies a rapid and powerful start, often used to describe someone who begins a task or competition with a burst of energy and intensity.
These idioms, "blast out" and "storm out of the blocks," are related to "blast off" in that they all convey the idea of starting or launching with force, energy, and momentum. They embody the idea of a powerful departure, whether it be in the physical sense of rocket launches or in metaphorical contexts.
The versatility of "blast off" as an idiom allows it to be used not only in the context of physical takeoff but also in a broader range of meanings. It can symbolize excitement, momentum, and embarking on new endeavors. The power and imagery associated with this idiom continue to inspire and captivate, offering a glimpse into the possibilities that lie ahead.
Example usage
Examples:
1. The rocket is scheduled to blast off at 8:00 a.m. tomorrow morning.
2. The children cheered as the fireworks blast off into the night sky.
3. The car took off from the starting line with a blast off sound.
More "Verbs" idioms
