Definition & Meaning of "Off the rails"

off the rails

/ˈɒf ðə ɹˈeɪlz/

/ˈɔf ðə ɹˈeɪlz/

off the rails

PHRASE

used to say that someone is behaving in a way that is wild, irrational, or unconventional

What is the origin of the idiom "off the rails" and when to use it?

The idiom "off the rails" originated from the literal sense of a train going off its tracks or derailing in the early 20th century. It is now used to describe someone or something that is behaving in a wild, irrational, or unconventional manner, often deviating from the expected or socially acceptable path. It implies a loss of control, direction, or adherence to norms, suggesting a departure from the usual or expected course of action.

used to say that something is out of control or unpredictable

What is the origin of the idiom "off the rails" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "off the rails" can be traced back to the literal sense of train travel. When a train derails, it veers off its tracks and loses its intended path, resulting in chaos and unpredictability. The figurative use of the phrase likely emerged from this literal meaning, with "off the rails" coming to symbolize situations or events that have deviated from their expected or planned course, becoming disordered, chaotic, or uncontrollable.

use to say that a train or vehicle has physically left the tracks or rails it is supposed to follow

used to say that something is not following the planned or expected course

What is the origin of the idiom "off the rails" and when to use it?

The idiom "off the rails" originates from the literal image of a train derailing or leaving the tracks, which results in chaos and deviation from its intended course. Over time, this literal meaning has been extended to figurative contexts to describe situations or events that have veered off course or become disordered.

used to say that something is extreme or exciting

What is the origin of the idiom "off the rails" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "off the rails" in the context of extreme or exciting behavior is less clear than its literal meaning of a train derailing. This usage likely developed through metaphorical extension, as "off the rails" originally referred to a train departing from its tracks and then came to represent a departure from expected or controlled behavior. Over time, this evolved to include situations or actions perceived as wild, unconventional, or thrilling.