pound the pavement: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘pound the pavement’ mean?
The idiom "pound the pavement" means to walk or travel on foot, especially in search of employment or to promote a cause.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "walk the streets" means to roam or wander around in public places, typically on foot, often with a negative connotation associated with prostitution or illegal activities.
The idiom "run to earth" means to track down or locate someone or something that has been hidden or elusive.
The idiom "run about" means to move or travel quickly and randomly in different directions.
The idiom "road less traveled" means choosing an unconventional path or taking a less popular route, often in life or decision-making, different from the majority or mainstream choices.
The idiom "put to work" means to utilize or employ someone or something for a particular purpose or task.
The idiom "put the pedal to the metal" means to go as fast as possible, often while driving a car or working on a task. It implies a sense of urgency and the need for maximum effort or speed.
The idiom *put the hammer down* means to take decisive action or to enforce strict measures.
The idiom "put one's best foot forward" means to make a good impression or to present oneself in the best possible way, especially in a new or important situation.
Concrete to Abstract
Pound the pavement is a common American idiom that has been in use since the early 20th century. The phrase is primarily used to describe the act of walking or physically searching for something, often in a determined and persistent manner.
The origin of this idiom is believed to have come from the physical act of walking on pavement or sidewalks. In the early 20th century, as more people moved to urban areas, walking on paved sidewalks became a common activity. Thus, the phrase "pound the pavement" emerged to describe actively and relentlessly walking on the pavement in search of something.
One related idiom that bears similarities to "pound the pavement" is "hit the pavement." This phrase refers to taking to the streets, usually on foot, to do something productive or achieve a specific goal. It can be applied to job hunting or any other activity that requires physical action and determination.
Another related idiom is "pound a beat." This expression is often used to describe the work of police officers or other professionals who have a designated area or route to cover. It implies consistently and persistently patrolling or walking a specific path, similar to the act of pounding the pavement.
Today, "pound the pavement" is used more broadly to describe any kind of active, determined, and persistent effort to achieve a goal. It can refer to physical action, such as walking or running, or even metaphorical action, such as actively pursuing a goal or putting in significant effort towards something.
The appeal of the idiom lies in its simplicity and effectiveness in conveying the idea of hard work and determination. It has become deeply rooted in the vocabulary of English speakers, particularly in the United States.
While the exact origin of the idiom remains somewhat uncertain, its usage and meaning have evolved over time to become a commonly understood expression. Its continued prominence in everyday language is a testament to its enduring relevance and resonance.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "pound the pavement" can be used in a sentence:
- After graduating, she had to pound the pavement to find a job in her field.
- The sales team was out pounding the pavement all day to find potential clients.
- If you want to succeed as a freelance writer, you have to pound the pavement and pitch your ideas to editors.
More "Activity" idioms
