Before you can say Jack Robinson

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phrase

This phrase is used to say that something happened very quickly, or will happen almost immediately.

I told him to keep quiet, and before you can say Jack Robinson, he had told the whole story.
Visual representation of "before you can say Jack Robinson" - This phrase is used to say that something happened very quickly, or will happen almost immediately.

Often appears as...

  • happen before you can say jack robinson
  • finish before you can say jack robinson

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "before you can say Jack Robinson"
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Speed Implication

It suggests something happens so quickly it's almost surprising.

Illustration for Speed Implication
She accepted the job offer before you can say Jack Robinson.
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Colloquial Usage

It's an informal saying, used more in casual conversations than in formal writing.

Illustration for Colloquial Usage
He packed his bags and was gone before you can say Jack Robinson.
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Hyperbole Alert

It's an exaggeration, as no action literally takes that short amount of time.

Illustration for Hyperbole Alert
The cookies sold out before you can say Jack Robinson.
Visual representation of the word "Before you can say Jack Robinson"

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