in the fast lane

in the fast lane

English

Pronunciation

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Prepositional phrase

in the fast lane

1. (idiomatic) In a lifestyle, employment position, or other set of circumstances where the rapid pace is exciting, frantic, or risky.
   • 2003, B. Krandrowitz and K. Springen, "Free At Last!," Newsweek, 13 Oct.:

     For baby-boomer parents, life without kids often feels like suddenly slamming on the brakes after years in the fast lane.

   • 2005, Claudia Wallis, "AIDS: A Growing Threat," Time, 18 Apr.:

     He readily admits to a life of promiscuity and a history of many liaisons with prostitutes. "I lived in the fast lane," he confesses.

Usage notes

• Often used in the expression life in the fast lane.

Translations

in a lifestyle, etc. with a rapid, exciting, frantic, or risky pace

French: ≈vie de patachon (fr) f (a noun = life in the fast lane)