Lickety Split: How to Use the Phrase "Lickety Split" in English? • 7ESL

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The term ‘lickety split’ may be heard in a number of English conversations, but what is the meaning of this saying? We are going to take a look at what this saying means and how it can be used in a conversation. We will also look into the history of the term and where it originally came from.

Lickety Split

Lickety Split Meaning

When someone uses the phrase ‘lickety split’ they are saying that something should be done in a quick manner. That the task at hand should be done speedily.

Origin of this idiomatic expression

The phrase ‘lickety split’ is believed to have come from the 19th century and the word ‘lick’ which meant quick. The word used to refer to a fast sprint. It is believed that the term has origins of a Scottish background.

“Lickety Split” Examples

Examples in Statements

This is a statement being made by a mother.

‘Come on kids, we have to go. Get your shoes on lickety split.’

Here is a statement which is being made by a teacher.

‘OK now class, we need to get this project finished lickety split.’

Conversation Examples

There are many times that the interesting idiomatic term ‘lickety split’ might be used in a conversation, Here are some examples to show you how it might work.

The first conversation is happening between two friends who are catching a bus.

Person 1: “We are almost at the bus stop.”
Person 2: “Yes, but look, the bus is already there.”
Person 1: “We had better get there lickety split or we will miss it.”

This next conversation is between a boss and his employee.

Person 1: “When do you need this paperwork completed by?”
Person 2: “As soon as you can please.”
Person 1: “OK, I will get on to it lickety split.”

Other Ways to Say the Phrase

There are many other ways in which you can express the meaning of the term ‘lickety split.’ Here are some examples of other things you might say.

Pronto
Make it snappy
Hurry it up
Lightning fast
Quickly
In a flash

Liam Daniel

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