panic stations
1 of 1noun/ˈpænɪk ˈsteɪʃənz/
1
a sense of anxiety or urgency, because there is a lot that one must do quickly
The origin of the phrase "panic stations" can be traced back to naval operations and the use of signaling systems on ships. In the past, ships used a system of bells and signals to communicate important messages to the crew. It is often employed to depict high-pressure scenarios where individuals or groups find themselves in critical or dangerous circumstances. The phrase is also commonly used in sports and competitive events to describe intense moments where teams or individuals must act decisively to turn the tide in their favor.
- Everyone is in panic stations as the fire alarm blares throughout the building.
- They always go into panic stations when the deadline for their project approaches.
- We went into panic stations when the storm hit and the power went out.
- He was in panic stations as he realized he had misplaced his passport right before the trip.
- She will be in panic stations trying to finish her presentation before the important meeting.