informal5K
Hit the road
UK //hɪt ðə rəʊd//US //hɪt ði roʊd//
Definition
To begin a journey or travel.
In simple words: To leave for a journey or trip.
Examples
- We should hit the road early to avoid traffic.
- After the meeting, it's time to hit the road and head home.
- Let's not waste any more time and hit the road!
- As soon as the sun rises, we'll hit the road for our trip.
- They decided to hit the road and explore the countryside.
Usage notes
Use this phrase when talking about starting a journey, often in a casual context. It's not suitable for formal situations.
Grammar pattern
standalone phrase
Memory hint
Imagine a traveler happily hitting the pavement with their bags, ready to go.
Collocations
- hit the road early
- hit the road again
- hit the road right away
Synonyms
- depart
- set off
- leave
- journey
- hit the streets
Common mistakes
- Using it in formal writing.
- Confusing it with 'hit the trails' which means to hike.
- Using it when planning instead of starting the journey.