Like The Devil - English Definition & Meaning

Daily Word â€Ē Learn, play, and grow your vocabulary

Definition

This idiom signifies doing something with extreme speed, energy, or intensity. It's an exaggeration, implying a frantic or desperate effort. Imagine someone running as fast as they can to escape something scary 🏃. "Like the devil" emphasizes the urgency and desperation behind the action. It is a vivid way to describe someone pursuing a goal relentlessly. The phrase adds a sense of drama to the situation.

Etymology

The phrase draws upon the traditional image of the devil as a figure of relentless pursuit and malevolence. The devil is often depicted as being tireless and intent on capturing souls. Therefore, comparing an action to "like the devil" suggests an equally intense effort. It reflects cultural perceptions of relentless pursuit.

Related Words

Examples

  • "He ran like the devil to catch the bus."
  • "She studied like the devil for her final exams."
  • "They worked like the devil to finish the project on time."
  • "The wind howled like the devil during the storm."

Anecdote / Story

Think about Neo in 'The Matrix' dodging bullets. He's moving 'like the devil,' twisting and turning to survive. Or imagine a gamer trying to beat a difficult boss level. They're strategizing and clicking 'like the devil' to win. The intensity and focused energy in those moments are what this phrase conveys. It paints a picture of someone giving it their all.

Encouragement

Use "like the devil" to spice up your descriptions and add some intensity. It's a fun and vivid way to express extreme effort. Try it out in your writing or conversations, and see how it adds impact! ðŸ”Ĩ

🚀 Ready to expand your vocabulary?

Get expertly crafted daily words delivered straight to your WhatsApp. Join thousands learning new words every day!

✅ Daily word delivery ✅ Etymology & examples ✅ Interactive learning ✅ 100% free trial
Start Your Free Trial on WhatsApp
ðŸ“ą Get daily vocabulary on WhatsApp Start Free Trial