In the fast-paced world we live in, impatience often takes center stage in our daily interactions. This post explores 20 colorful idioms that perfectly capture the essence of impatience, each with a concise definition and a snappy example to illustrate its use. Dive into the nuances of these expressions and perhaps, find a new favorite way to express your hurry!
Idioms That Describe Impatience
1. Champing at the bit
Meaning: Eager to start or do something.
Example: He’s champing at the bit for news.
2. Climbing the walls
Meaning: Extremely anxious or restless.
Example: She’s climbing the walls waiting.
3. Can’t wait
Meaning: Overcome with anticipation.
Example: I can’t wait for the concert!
4. On pins and needles
Meaning: Anxiously awaiting something.
Example: They’re on pins and needles here.
5. Pacing the floor
Meaning: Walking nervously while waiting.
Example: He’s pacing the floor anxiously.
6. Biting one’s nails
Meaning: Nervous or anxious behavior.
Example: She’s biting her nails again.
7. Burning daylight
Meaning: Wasting time when there’s much to do.
Example: Stop burning daylight; get moving!
8. Watching the pot
Meaning: Impatiently waiting for something to happen.
Example: He’s just watching the pot.
9. Twiddling thumbs
Meaning: Waiting idly when anxious.
Example: Just twiddling thumbs until news.
10. Time is of the essence
Meaning: Hurry is crucial.
Example: Act now, time is of the essence.
11. Jumping the gun
Meaning: Doing something too early.
Example: Don’t jump the gun on decisions.
12. On edge
Meaning: Tensely awaiting something.
Example: She’s been on edge all day.
13. Itching to go
Meaning: Eager and impatient to start.
Example: He’s itching to go now.
14. Can’t sit still
Meaning: Too nervous or excited to relax.
Example: Kids can’t sit still today.
15. Tapping one’s foot
Meaning: Showing impatience through a gesture.
Example: He’s tapping his foot loudly.
16. Hot under the collar
Meaning: Getting angry or bothered.
Example: She’s hot under the collar now.
17. In a hurry
Meaning: Rushing or moving quickly.
Example: Always in a hurry to leave.
18. Ants in one’s pants
Meaning: Unable to stay still due to excitement or anxiety.
Example: He’s got ants in his pants.
19. Raring to go
Meaning: Very eager and enthusiastic.
Example: They’re raring to go at dawn.
20. At the end of one’s rope
Meaning: Losing patience after many problems.
Example: She’s at the end of her rope.
