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at the drop of a hat
/æt ðə drɒp əv ə hæt/◆idiom
immediately
She agreed to help at the drop of a hat.
She agreed to help without hesitation.
informal
Without any hesitation or delay; immediately.
He can leave for a trip at the drop of a hat.
He can leave for a trip without any delay.
The team was ready to deploy at the drop of a hat.
The team was prepared to act immediately.
This phrase is often used to describe someone who is very willing or able to act quickly.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage Tip
This phrase is often used to describe someone who is very willing or able to act quickly. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts.
Gold Rule
Correct Usage
Use this phrase to describe immediate action or readiness, not literal hat-dropping.
Word Origin
The origin of this phrase is unclear, but it may come from the idea of a hat being dropped as a signal to start a race or event, indicating readiness to act immediately.
Usage Notes
This idiom is commonly used in informal contexts to describe someone's readiness or willingness to act quickly. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts.
English Dictionary