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Track and field isn’t just a sport — it’s a rich source of everyday idioms we use to talk about goals, competition, speed, and success. Whether you’re “jumping the gun” or “going the extra mile,” these expressions come straight from the world of athletics and are perfect for everyday English. Let’s explore the most common track and field idioms and see how they’re used in real life!
What is track and field?
Track and field is a sport which consists running, jumping, and throwing competitions. The running events take place around a track and the field events take place on the grass in the middle of the track. It’s one of the oldest and most popular Olympic sports, and it’s also the source of many everyday idioms and expressions in English.
track and field idioms and phrases
Many common idioms come from track and field. These phrases reflect the action and competition of the sport. Here’s a list of idioms, the events they come from, and examples of how to use them.
jumping idioms
Track and field events that involve jumping include the high jump, long jump, triple jump, and pole vault. These high-energy events have inspired many idioms in English. Here’s a list of common jumping idioms, their meanings, and examples to help you use them confidently.
in for the high jump
meaning – likely to be punished because of something you did wrong
example – When I find out who slashed my tyres, they’ll be in for the high jump.
jump through hoops
meaning – complete many difficult challenges in order to achieve something
example – My friend has been jumping through hoops to get us tickets to Beyoncé.
raise the bar
meaning – increase the quality/standard/expectations
example – The teacher said I raised the bar; it was the best poem she has ever read.
running idioms
Track and field events that involve running cover a variety of exciting challenges, from quick sprints and hurdle races to longer-distance runs. These dynamic races have inspired many vivid idioms that capture the spirit of speed, endurance, and competition. Here is a list of running idioms.
a change of pace
meaning – different from the normal
example – I’m moving to Canada; it’ll be a complete change of pace for me.
a snail’s pace
meaning – very slowly
example – My essay writing is going badly. I’m writing at a snail’s pace.
against the clock
meaning – in a hurry as there is little time
example – There was a crash on the M1, we’re against the clock now.
cross the finish line
meaning – finish a job/task
example – After 3 years working on a high-profile case, I’ve finally crossed the finish line.
fall at the first hurdle
meaning – fail at an early stage
example – My new business venture fell at the first hurdle. The bank wouldn’t give me a loan.
front-runner
meaning – a leading contestant/team in a competition
example – Roger Federer is one of the front runners in Wimbledon this year.
in the running
meaning – a contender in a competition
example – That song is amazing. It’s definitely in the running for Christmas number 1.
jump the gun
meaning – do something before the appropriate time
example – I asked her to move in with me. I think I jumped the gun; we’ve only been dating for 2 months.
lose track of time
meaning – unaware that so much time has passed
example – The date was great, we lost track of time and spent hours chatting.
on your marks
meaning – get into your starting position ready to begin
example – On your marks, the exam is about to begin.
out of the running
meaning – not a contender in a competition
example – If this scandal breaks, Lawler will be out of the running to become Chancellor.
race against time
meaning – try to do something in a short amount of time
example – It as a race against time to get the injured cat to the vet.
run out of time
meaning – have no time left to complete something
example – We’re running out of time. If we don’t fix the roof now, it’ll end up costing thousands.
run with
meaning – be in charge of something and do it independently
example – Do you think I can trust Ryan to run with the case while I’m away?
set the pace
meaning – determine the speed/rate
example – Ethel sold 20,000 units this week. She’s set the pace for the rest of us.
toe the line
meaning – follow the rules
example – You’ve got to start toeing the line or you’ll get kicked out of school.
Explore More Fun Idioms and English Tips
Enjoyed these track and field idioms? Keep the learning going with more everyday expressions and grammar help. Whether you’re into quirky idioms, grammar tricks, or just want to sound more fluent, there’s plenty more to discover!
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