16 Idioms to Describe Speed (Fast/Slow)
Speed isn’t just about numbers—it’s about feeling, urgency, and rhythm. In English, we rarely say just “fast” or “slow.” Instead, we use colorful idioms that paint a picture. These 16 idioms to describe speed help you talk about how quickly (or slowly!) things happen—in traffic, work, cooking, or even your Wi-Fi—just like a native speaker.
Common Ways to Say ‘Really Fast’ or ‘Incredibly Slow’
Super Fast Idioms
- In the blink of an eye Something happens almost instantly. The baby grew in the blink of an eye.
- Like a bat out of hell Extremely fast and often chaotic (informal, slightly dramatic). He sped off like a bat out of hell when he saw the police car.
- At lightning speed Very rapid—like a flash of lightning. The team finished the project at lightning speed.
- Quick as a flash Instantaneous and effortless. She answered the question—quick as a flash.
- Like greased lightning Old-fashioned but fun—means extremely fast and smooth. That new delivery drone moves like greased lightning!
- In a flash Very quickly; in a moment. I’ll be ready in a flash—just grabbing my keys!
- Faster than you can say “Jack Robinson” British idiom meaning something happens almost before you finish speaking. Faster than you can say “Jack Robinson”, the cake was gone!
- At the speed of light Used humorously or literally for extreme speed. My laptop finally updated—at the speed of light… not!
Very Slow Idioms
- At a snail’s pace Extremely slow—like a snail crawling. Traffic was moving at a snail’s pace this morning.
- Like molasses in January American idiom: slow and thick, like cold syrup. Our internet is running like molasses in January.
- Drag its feet When a person or organization delays on purpose. The committee is dragging its feet on the decision.
- Move like a glacier Glaciers move almost imperceptibly—perfect for extreme slowness. This software update is moving like a glacier.
Neutral or Contextual Speed
- At breakneck speed Dangerously fast—often used for reckless situations. They were driving at breakneck speed down the mountain road.
- Take its time Something is moving slowly by choice or nature—often said with patience or sarcasm. The coffee maker is really taking its time this morning.
- Full steam ahead Moving forward quickly and with energy (from old steam trains). Now that funding is approved, it’s full steam ahead on the project!
- Hit the ground running To start something quickly and energetically. On her first day, she hit the ground running and impressed everyone.
Real-Life Dialogues
Friend A: How was your trip?
Friend B: Amazing! Time flew—in the blink of an eye, I was back home.
Friend A: Meanwhile, my laundry’s still spinning—at a snail’s pace!
Friend B: Mine finished in a flash!
Coworker: Is the report ready?
You: Not yet—they’re dragging their feet on the data.
Coworker: Ugh. I need it at lightning speed!
You: Don’t worry—once it’s approved, we’ll go full steam ahead.
Quick Tips: Choosing the Right Idiom
| Situation | Recommended Idiom | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Describing instant change | In the blink of an eye | Poetic, universal, and emotionally resonant. |
| Complaining about slow service | At a snail’s pace | Visual, gentle, and widely understood. |
| Talking about enthusiastic progress | Full steam ahead | Energetic and positive—great for work or projects. |
| Expressing dangerous speed | At breakneck speed | Conveys risk and intensity clearly. |
Practice Tip
Next time you’re waiting for a slow download or watching something happen quickly, say one idiom out loud—like “at a snail’s pace” or “in a flash.” It’ll help you remember it naturally!
Why This Matters
- These 16 idioms to describe speed appear constantly in movies, books, news, and daily English—you’ll understand more when you know them.
- They help you express not just *how fast*, but *how it feels*—frustrating, exciting, urgent, or relaxed.
- Using vivid speed idioms makes your English more expressive, engaging, and native-like.
Speed is more than a number—it’s a story. Try using one of these 16 idioms to describe speed today, and add energy (or humor!) to your conversations. Happy learning! 😊
