WordLens

pedal to the metal

1 of 1phrase
/ˈpɛdəl tə ðə ˈmɛtəl/
1

used to say that a vehicle is driven with great speed

The idiom "pedal to the metal" originated from the world of driving and automotive racing, specifically referring to the act of pushing the accelerator pedal all the way to the floorboard. This action maximizes the engine's power and acceleration, allowing the vehicle to move at its fastest speed. This phrase is now used to convey the idea of pushing the vehicle one is driving to its absolute limit.

  • It would normally take us three days driving to New York from Colorado, but with my brother putting the pedal to the metal, we made it in two.
  • We drove through the night flat-out, with the pedal to the metal.
  • In the final stretch of the marathon, she put the pedal to the metal and sprinted towards the finish line.
2

used to say that something is done with great speed and determination

The idiom "pedal to the metal" originated from aviation. The term refers to pushing the aircraft's throttle lever (which was made of metal) fully forward, causing the engine to operate at maximum power, resulting in great speed. It is commonly used in contexts related to work, sports, competitions, or any endeavor that requires intense effort and a relentless drive for success.

  • He's got the pedal to the metal as he works tirelessly to complete the project ahead of schedule.
  • They had the pedal to the metal and achieved their sales targets for the previous quarter.
  • She's currently got the pedal to the metal, training intensely for the upcoming marathon.
  • They were driving with the pedal to the metal, trying to catch the last flight out of the airport.
  • By this time next year, they will still be putting the pedal to the metal to expand their business operations.