leaps and bounds: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘leaps and bounds’ mean?
The idiom "leaps and bounds" means making rapid and significant progress or improvement.
Idiom Explorer
When something *leaps to mind*, it means that an idea or thought quickly springs into one's consciousness without much effort. It indicates an instant and obvious association with a particular topic or situation.
The idiom "jump the gun" means to do or say something prematurely or before the appropriate time.
The idiom "jump out" means to stand out or be noticeable due to its distinct or unusual characteristics.
The idiom "jump at the chance" means to eagerly accept or take advantage of an opportunity without hesitation.
The idiom *jump at* means to eagerly accept or seize an opportunity without hesitation.
The idiom "in stride" means to take something in one's stride or to handle it calmly and confidently without being affected by it.
An idiom meaning to do something quickly and efficiently, often describing the completion of multiple tasks or actions in a single swift and decisive motion.
The idiom "in a flash" means doing something very quickly or almost instantly.
Decoding Progress
The idiom "leaps and bounds" is commonly used in the English language to describe rapid and significant progress or improvement. This figurative expression is often used to convey the idea of swift and substantial advancement in various contexts.
When someone or something is said to be progressing "by leaps and bounds," it implies a sudden and large-scale advancement or growth. The idiom is often used to describe the rapid development or improvement of a person's skills, knowledge, or abilities.
For example, a student who is excelling in their studies may be said to be making "leaps and bounds" in their academic performance. They are jumping out of the pack with their exceptional abilities and are well on their way to go far in their educational journey. This progress is remarkable and impressive, showing how they are rapidly advancing beyond their peers.
Similarly, if a company is experiencing significant growth and success, it may be described as progressing "by leaps and bounds" in the business world. The company's accomplishments and achievements are notable, as they are making remarkable strides in their industry. Their progress and success are clear indicators of their ability to go far in the business world.
The use of "leaps and bounds" is not limited to personal and professional growth. It can also be used to describe the remarkable recovery of someone who has been ill or injured. When an individual's health or physical condition is improving rapidly and significantly, it may be said that they are recovering "by leaps and bounds."
This expression highlights the noticeable and dramatic progress made by the person in their journey towards full health or wellness. They are making quick and significant strides towards recovery, leaving behind any setbacks or challenges they may have faced in the past.
Furthermore, the idiom "leaps and bounds" can be employed to express speedy and substantial advances in technology or innovation. When a new invention or technological breakthrough revolutionizes a particular field or industry, it is often described as progressing "by leaps and bounds."
This usage emphasizes the significant and transformative impact of the innovation, emphasizing the magnitude of the progress made. The invention or breakthrough is jumping out of the confines of traditional methods and is propelling the industry into new horizons. It is revolutionizing the field and has the potential to go far in shaping the future.
Though the exact origin of the idiom "leaps and bounds" remains unclear, it can be traced back to the Middle English period where it first appeared in written texts. The phrase is believed to have originated from the literal sense of physically leaping or jumping forward with great force and distance.
Over time, it evolved into a figurative expression, conveying the idea of remarkable and rapid progress beyond mere physical movement. The phrase "leaps and bounds" encapsulates the notion of swift advancement and substantial growth, whether it be in personal development, business success, recovery from illness, or technological advancements.
The idiom "leaps and bounds" carries the connotation of substantial and rapid progress or improvement. Its usage spans various domains, capturing the imagination of individuals seeking to describe remarkable strides in various aspects of life. The phrase embodies the ideal of swift and significant advancement, leaving room for further exploration and discovery in the pursuit of progress.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *leaps and bounds* can be used in a sentence:
- Her knowledge on the subject has improved by leaps and bounds since she started attending the seminars.
- The company's profits have grown by leaps and bounds this year due to its successful marketing campaign.
- After months of practicing, his basketball skills have improved by leaps and bounds.
The phrase "leaps and bounds" is used to describe significant and rapid progress or growth. It suggests that progress is happening quickly and in large increments.
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