fire on all cylinders: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘fire on all cylinders’ mean?
The idiom "fire on all cylinders" means to be operating at full capacity or performing exceptionally well in all aspects. It is often used to describe someone or something that is functioning at the highest level of efficiency or productivity.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "on fire" means to be performing exceptionally well or having great success in a particular activity. It is often used to describe someone who is highly skilled, talented, or in a state of intense enthusiasm or energy.
The idiom "kindle-fire" means to ignite or arouse strong emotions or passions within someone or a situation.
The idiom "irons in the fire" means having multiple projects or tasks in progress or pursuing multiple opportunities at the same time. It suggests being busy with various things and being proactive in pursuing new prospects or ventures.
The idiom "in high gear" means to be functioning or operating at a very fast or intense pace, usually with a lot of energy and enthusiasm.
The idiom "in full gear" means to be operating at maximum speed or efficiency, with all resources and effort fully engaged.
The idiom *in full force* means that something is happening or being done with great intensity, energy, or effectiveness.
The idiom "in all one's glory" means to be seen or presented in one's most impressive and grandiose state, showcasing all of one's achievements and qualities.
The idiom "go all out" means to put in maximum effort or to do something with full dedication and enthusiasm.
Deciphering Optimal Performance
The idiom "fire on all cylinders" is commonly used in American English to describe someone or something operating at its maximum capacity. The phrase originated from the automotive industry, where it referred to the firing or ignition process of an engine cylinder. It has since become a figurative expression used in various contexts.
When someone is "firing on all cylinders," it means they are performing at their peak, showing a high level of energy, enthusiasm, or productivity. They are in full gear and operating at full blast. Just like a well-tuned engine, they are functioning efficiently and effectively.
Whether it's in the workplace, sports, or personal life, the phrase "fire on all cylinders" is used to describe exceptional performance. Imagine a team that is on fire, playing in full gear and giving their all to win a game. Each member of the team is contributing their best efforts, and together, they are firing on all cylinders.
In the business world, a company that is firing on all cylinders is experiencing a high level of success and profitability. They are in high gear and achieving their maximum potential. The team members are working together seamlessly, and the organization is functioning cohesively.
In personal life, "fire on all cylinders" can describe an individual who is excelling in different aspects such as their career, relationships, or personal development. They are in full gear, pursuing their goals with passion and determination. Their life is running at full blast, and they are making the most of their abilities and opportunities.
Overall, "fire on all cylinders" has become a widely used idiom in American English. Just like an engine firing on all cylinders, it conveys a sense of dynamism, intensity, and efficiency. People use it to describe optimal performance and productivity in a concise and powerful manner. It is a testament to the enabling power of metaphoric language in capturing complex concepts and emotions.
Example usage
Examples of the idiom fire on all cylinders used in sentences:
- 1. The team was fired on all cylinders and won the championship with ease.
- 2. After a week of vacation, I returned to work and fired on all cylinders to catch up on my backlog of tasks.
- 3. The band's performance was incredible, with each member firing on all cylinders to deliver an unforgettable show.
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