The phrase "hit skids" is an idiom used to describe a situation where something is experiencing a decline, either in performance or popularity. The word "skids" is spelled with a silent "d," and is pronounced as /skɪdz/. The "h" sound in the word "hit" is necessary to indicate that the word is in the past tense, as the phrase refers to something that has already happened. This phrase can be applied to a variety of situations, from financial markets to sports teams.
"Hit skids" is an idiomatic expression that refers to a situation where someone or something experiences a sudden decline or deterioration in its performance, success, or progress. The phrase can be used to describe a variety of contexts, such as an individual's career, an organization's financial situation, or a project's outcome.
In essence, "hit skids" suggests encountering a negative turn of events, often resulting in setbacks or difficulties. The word "hit" conveys the suddenness and forcefulness with which the decline or deterioration occurs, as if one has metaphorically collided with an obstacle. On the other hand, "skids" refers to a state of sliding or slipping, indicating a loss of control or stability.
When an individual "hits skids" in their career, it implies the occurrence of a downfall or setback in their professional life, such as experiencing job loss, salary reduction, or a decline in reputation. For organizations, "hitting skids" can mean struggling financially, facing declining sales or profits, or encountering operational challenges that hinder growth and success. Similarly, if a project "hits skids," it suggests that it has gone off track, failed to meet expectations, or encountered unforeseen obstacles that impede its progress.
Overall, "hit skids" encapsulates the idea of a sudden, negative change in circumstances, often characterized by difficulty or adversity. It signifies a loss of momentum or progress, requiring those affected to navigate through challenges in order to regain stability or success.
The phrase "hit the skids" has its origins in early 20th-century slang. The word "skid" refers to a wooden plank or beam used to aid in the movement of heavy objects. In the context of the phrase, "hit the skids" means to experience a sudden decline or loss of fortune.
The exact etymology of the phrase is uncertain, but it likely emerged from the world of transport or labor, where the term "skid" was commonly used. The idiom gained popularity in the 1920s and 1930s during the Great Depression when many people experienced financial hardship.
Overall, "hit the skids" is a metaphorical expression that draws on the idea of sudden decline or loss, possibly inspired by the physical act of a substantial object sliding down a skid.