The phrase "run like scared rabbit" is often used to describe someone's quick getaway, and it's important to know the correct spelling when using it. In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be written as /rʌn laɪk skɛərd ˈræbɪt/. The "r" in "run" is pronounced as a consonant, followed by the short "u" sound. "Scared" has two syllables, with emphasis on the second syllable, and the "a" is pronounced as "ae". "Rabbit" has a short "a" sound followed by "bit". Knowing the correct spelling and pronunciation ensures effective communication.
The idiom "run like a scared rabbit" describes the act of moving swiftly, urgently, and fervently in a state of intense fear, panic, or distress. Originating from the behavior of rabbits, known for their cautious and nervous disposition, this expression vividly captures the notion of an individual or animal reacting rapidly to escape an imminent danger or threat.
Characterized by rapid footsteps, startled movements, and a sense of urgency, "running like a scared rabbit" implies a profound emotional distress that propels someone to flee without hesitation. It signifies a heightened state of anxiety, where the instinctive response is to seek safety or avoid confrontation as quickly as possible. The phrase can be applied to various scenarios, such as physical danger, emotional discomfort, social distress, or overwhelming stress.
Additionally, the comparison to a rabbit not only emphasizes the element of fear but also suggests a brisk, agile, and nimble movement. As such, "running like a scared rabbit" implies a hurried escape rather than a casual jog or leisurely trot. This idiom is often used metaphorically to depict someone's desperate attempt to elude an immediate threat or to symbolize the urgency with which a person distances themselves from a challenging or daunting situation.