The phrase "goes like lightning" means something moves very quickly, and the pronunciation is [ɡoʊz laɪk ˈlaɪtnɪŋ]. The first word "goes" is spelled with a silent -es, as the -s marks the third person singular present tense of the verb "go". The second word "like" is spelled with a silent -e at the end, which is common in English spelling. The final word "lightning" is spelled just as it sounds. The IPA transcription helps to accurately represent the pronunciation of this phrase.
"Goes like lightning" is an idiomatic expression used to describe something that moves or happens very quickly or at an astonishing speed. The phrase draws a metaphorical comparison between the speed of the object or event being referred to and that of lightning, which is renowned for its tremendous velocity and swiftness.
This phrase finds its origins in the natural phenomenon of lightning, which is an electrical discharge occurring in the atmosphere during a thunderstorm. Lightning bolts streak across the sky in a rapid and almost instantaneous manner, leaving a lasting impression due to their remarkable speed.
When applied to different contexts, "goes like lightning" generally implies that an action, process, or movement is executed swiftly and efficiently. It conveys the idea of an extraordinary pace or velocity, indicating that the subject is notably fast, sudden, or unstoppable. It can be used to describe a person's movements, such as running or driving, that are exceptionally rapid or energetic. Additionally, it can be used metaphorically to express the speed or efficiency of an action, such as completing a task or solving a problem in an impressively short amount of time.
Overall, "goes like lightning" connotes a sense of remarkable speed and agility, emphasizing the rapid nature of the action or object being referred to, and is often used to convey a sense of astonishment or admiration for its velocity.