Running on Fumes

Idiom: Running on Fumes

Example 1: 

Nancy: How long until we reach the hotel?

Jason: About 50 miles. Why?

Nancy: I was hoping we wouldn't have to stop before arriving, but we need to stop for gas at the next station. We've been running on fumes for a few miles and I don't want to push the car in the dark!

Jason: Neither do I! The GPS says there's a gas station one mile ahead.

Example 2:

Student life is so hard! This week, I had to write a 10-page paper in my sociology class and I have a midterm on Friday in my economics class. Between my part-time job, writing, and studying for the test, I'm running on fumes! I don't think I'll have enough energy to enjoy the weekend. 

Meaning: The expression running on fumes can be used to describe a vehicle/person with no fuel/energy left, but somehow they keep on going.

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Hit The Road

Idiom: Hit the road

Example 1: 

Jeff: Hey, Bill. What time is it? I need to be home by 10 or my mom will kill me.

Bill: It's 9:15. You'd better hit the road soon if you want to be on time!

Jeff: You're right! Bye!

Example 2:

Man 1: Excuse me, who are you and why are you taking fruit from my tree?!

Man 2: Sorry, they just looked really delicious and I wanted to try one.

Man 1: Well, you can't just take fruit from MY tree! Hit the road before I call the police!

Meaning: To hit the road is an informal expression that means leave, go, or begin a journey/trip. 

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Like a dream

Idiom: Like a dream - so good it’s unbelievable

Example 1:

Miguel:  Hey Saul, did you buy the new Ferrari you talked about?

Saul: Oh man, I totally did!

Miguel: So, how is it?  How does it drive?

Saul: It drives like a dream.

Example 2:

Charlie: How was your vacation to New Zealand?

Jean: My trip was like a dream.

Charlie: Wow! That’s great!  What did you enjoy the most?

Jean: I always wanted to watch the All Blacks play rugby.  It was great to watch a live game.  It really was like a dream come true.

Meaning: “Like a dream” means so good it’s unbelievable. 

In example #1, Saul never imagined it would feel so good to drive a Ferrari.  

In example #2, Jean’s vacation was so good, it felt unreal.

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