Like a Bat out of Hell: Meaning, Examples and Sentences

Elaboration and Examples:

The idiom “like a bat out of hell” is an expression used to describe someone or something moving or acting very quickly, with great speed and urgency. It implies a sense of intense or frantic activity, often associated with haste, urgency, or fear. The phrase suggests that the subject is moving swiftly and uncontrollably, as if escaping from a dangerous or chaotic situation.

The idiom is believed to have originated from the notion that bats, known for their agile and swift flight, emerge from their roosts or caves with remarkable speed, creating a sense of suddenness and urgency. The phrase gained popularity and was further popularized by its use in literature and music, notably in the song “Bat Out of Hell” by Meat Loaf.

Here are two examples that illustrate the usage of the idiom:

Example 1:

“When the fire alarm went off, the students rushed out of the building like bats out of hell, fearing for their safety.” Elaboration: In this example, the phrase “like bats out of hell” is used to emphasize the speed and urgency with which the students evacuated the building during a fire alarm. It conveys a sense of their hurried and frantic movement, driven by the fear of potential danger.

Example 2:

“As soon as the store announced a huge discount, customers flooded the aisles like bats out of hell, scrambling to grab the best deals.” Elaboration: In this example, the idiom “like bats out of hell” is used to depict the customers’ rapid and frantic actions in response to a significant discount offer. The phrase conveys the idea that the customers quickly and eagerly rushed through the store, displaying a sense of urgency and excitement to secure the best bargains.

Overall, the idiom “like a bat out of hell” captures the concept of swift and frenzied movement, suggesting urgency, speed, and an intense desire to escape or accomplish something quickly. It serves as a vivid expression to depict situations or actions that occur rapidly and with a sense of urgency or haste.

Sentences on “Like a Bat out of Hell”