The spelling of the phrase "thick fast" may seem counterintuitive, as the "th" sound is typically represented by the letters "th" together. However, in this case, the "th" sound is produced by the combination of the "i" and "c" sounds, represented as /θɪk fæst/ in IPA phonetic transcription. This is due to the pronunciation of "i" as /ɪ/ and "c" as /k/, which together create the "th" sound. Despite its unusual spelling, "thick fast" is a commonly used phrase to describe something that is dense and quickly moving.
Thick fast is an idiomatic expression that is used to describe a situation where things are progressing or happening at a rapid pace. The term "thick fast" is derived from the meaning of the words individually. "Thick" refers to something being dense or closely packed together, while "fast" implies speed or quickness.
When used together, "thick fast" suggests a situation where there is a high level of intensity, activity, or rapid development. It implies that events, actions, or changes are occurring in quick succession and may be difficult to keep up with or comprehend due to their fast pace. This idiomatic phrase is often used metaphorically to emphasize the speed and intensity of a particular situation.
For example, one might say that time seemed to be passing in a thick fast during a hectic workweek where multiple deadlines needed to be met. It implies that there was a dense concentration of tasks or events occurring rapidly, making it challenging to manage effectively or keep up with.
Similarly, this phrase can be applied to various scenarios such as fast-paced conversations, rapidly changing environments, or even describing a high-speed car chase in a movie. In all these situations, the use of "thick fast" illustrates the intensity and speed at which events are unfolding.