Take to one's heels definitions
| Word backwards | ekat ot s'eno sleeh |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | This phrase is a verb phrase. |
| Syllabic division | take to one's heels Syllable separation: take / to / one's / heels |
| Plural | The plural of the phrase "take to one's heels" would be "takes to their heels." |
| Total letters | 15 |
| Vogais (3) | a,e,o |
| Consonants (6) | t,k,n,s,h,l |
When faced with a sudden threat or danger, the instinct to take to one's heels often kicks in as a natural response. This expression, originating from the image of someone running away hurriedly on foot, signifies a quick retreat or escape from a difficult or risky situation.
Meaning of Take to One's Heels
Using this phrase implies the act of fleeing or running away from something rapidly. It suggests a sense of urgency and a need to put physical distance between oneself and whatever is causing fear or concern. The action of taking to one's heels is often associated with a sense of desperation or panic.
Examples of Usage
People might choose to take to their heels when encountering a wild animal in the woods, facing a threat of violence, or trying to evade capture by authorities. In literature and everyday conversation, this expression is used to describe situations in which a person makes a hasty retreat to avoid harm or trouble.
Synonyms and Similar Expressions
Other phrases that convey a similar meaning include "fleeing on foot," "running away," "making a quick escape," or "beating a hasty retreat." These terms all denote the act of rapid, often frantic movement away from a dangerous or undesirable situation.
Overall, the expression take to one's heels captures the essence of swiftly fleeing from harm or danger, highlighting the instinctual response to prioritize one's safety and well-being above all else.
Take to one's heels Examples
- After hearing the gunshot, the thief decided to take to his heels and run away from the scene.
- The rabbit was startled by the sudden noise and took to its heels, disappearing into the bushes.
- As soon as the dog saw the mailman approaching, it took to its heels and barked loudly.
- The children were playing a game of tag when one of them was tagged "it" and had to take to his heels to catch the others.
- When the sirens blared, signaling the arrival of the fire trucks, the onlookers took to their heels to make way for the emergency vehicles.
- During the race, the athlete stumbled and fell, but quickly got up and took to his heels to catch up with the other runners.
- The spy was discovered by the enemy forces and had to take to his heels to avoid capture.
- After accidentally knocking over the display in the store, the young boy took to his heels and ran out before anyone could stop him.
- Feeling overwhelmed by the crowd, the claustrophobic woman took to her heels and quickly made her way out of the crowded room.
- With a sudden gust of wind, the flimsy umbrella turned inside out, causing its owner to take to his heels in order to find shelter from the rain.