Leg it

Meaning

"Leg it" is an idiomatic expression that means to run away or flee from something, usually a difficult situation or a person who poses a threat. The phrase can also imply abandoning one's responsibilities or duties.

Usage

• After realizing she had made a mistake at work, Sarah decided to leg it and leave before her boss could find out.
• When he found out his girlfriend had been cheating on him, John couldn't contain his anger any longer and leg it out of the house.
• The thief leg it as soon as he saw the police officer approaching.
• With the economy in shambles, many people are considering legging it to other countries where they can find better opportunities.
• When faced with a difficult decision, some people choose to leg it and take the easy way out.

Roots and History

The origin of "leg it" is unclear, but it has been in use since at least the 19th century. It may come from the literal act of running away or fleeing, which involves using one's legs to escape. Over time, the idiom has taken on a more figurative meaning and can be used to describe a wide range of situations.

Synonyms in English

• Flee
• Escape
• Evade
• Avoid
• Run away

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: Huyir, Escapar
• French: Fuir, Échapper
• German: Flüchten, Entkommen
• Italian: Fuggire, Sfuggire
• Portuguese: Fugir, Esfugir

Similar Idioms

• turn a blind eye

• on the other hand

• line in the sand