“Get Out of Dodge” Meaning, Origin and Examples

The idiomatic phrase “get out of dodge” is a phrase you may hear or see frequently in everyday conversation and writing. Here you will find the meaning of this phrase and some information about its origin. You will also find examples of how to properly use this phrase in conversations/statements and alternative ways to say this phrase while still conveying the same meaning.

“Get Out of Dodge” Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

• The phrase “get out of Dodge” means to leave a place quickly, especially to avoid trouble or danger. The expression implies a sense of urgency in leaving a situation that is perceived as unsafe or undesirable.

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“Get Out Of Dodge” Meaning

The phrase “get out of Dodge” means to leave a place quickly, often to avoid danger, trouble, or an undesirable situation. It suggests a sense of urgency and the need to escape.

Examples:

• “When the storm started to get worse, we decided to get out of Dodge before the roads became impassable.”
• “After the argument escalated, I thought it was best to just get out of Dodge.”

Origin of This Idiomatic Expression

The idiom “get out of dodge” most likely originated from the television show Gunsmoke which aired on television from 1952 to 1975. The show was a western that took place in Dodge City, Kansas. Whenever there was someone causing trouble in the town, they were told to “get out of Dodge” meaning leave the city. The phrase became widely used because of the show and continues to be popular today when someone needs to leave any area because of impending trouble.

Usage of “Get Out Of Dodge”

• In a discussion about leaving a situation:

“When the argument started to escalate, I knew it was time to get out of Dodge.”

• Talking about making a quick exit:

“After realizing the party was getting too wild, we decided to get out of Dodge before things got out of hand.”

• In a conversation about a risky situation:

“Once I heard about the layoffs, I figured I should get out of Dodge and start looking for a new job.”

• During a discussion about travel plans:

“With the city preparing for a major storm, it was best to get out of Dodge and head to safety.”

Related Terms to “Get Out Of Dodge”

• Make a quick exit – to leave a place swiftly, often to avoid trouble.
• Beat a hasty retreat – to leave quickly, especially in response to danger or discomfort.
• Skedaddle – a colloquial term meaning to run away or depart hurriedly.
• Take off – to leave suddenly or quickly.
• Clear out – to leave a place swiftly, often implying that it’s time to go.
• Bounce – slang for leaving or departing, often quickly.
• Scram – an informal command to leave quickly.
• Vamoose – to depart hurriedly or quickly, often used in informal contexts.
• Cut and run – to leave a situation quickly, especially to avoid trouble.
• Head for the hills – to flee or escape from a difficult or dangerous situation.

Other Ways to Say “Get The Hell Out Of Dodge”

As is the case with all idiomatic phrases, there are many alternative ways to say “get out of dodge: and still convey the same meaning. Other ways you could say this phrase include:

• Leave
• Vacate
• Go on a trip/vacation

“Get Out Of Dodge” Examples

Example Statements

A statement made by a local citizen about a recent tornado that struck the town.

• “When I saw the tornado off in the distance and heard the sirens go off, I knew it was time to get out of dodge and head for our storm cellar.”

A statement made by a celebrity who was blacklisted for bad behavior.

• “When I was unable to get any further movie deals, I knew it was time to get the hell out of dodge. So I packed up my bags and moved from California to Florida and I have been here ever since.”

Example Conversations

A conversation between two co-workers at the office.

• Co-worker 1: If you ask me, this company is not doing well. They just aren’t letting anybody know that.
• Co-worker 2: Why do you think that?
• Co-worker 1: It is kind of obvious. Work has been slow and they have been sending us home early for the past month.
• Co-worker 2: That is true. Maybe you are right. Perhaps it is time to get out of dodge and look for another place to work.

A conversation between a father and son.

• Father: Son, I’ll tell you what. I am in major need of a long vacation.
• Son: Me too. After the breakup with Jenny, I need to get away from this place for a while.
• Father: What do you say this weekend we get out of dodge and go camping?
• Son: Sounds like a plan to me!