Hot on somebody’s/something’stracks/trail

usgb
phrase

Following someone or something closely or quickly, especially to try to catch or find them.

The police are hot on the trail of the criminals who escaped from prison.
Visual representation of "hot on somebody’s/something’stracks/trail" - Following someone or something closely or quickly, especially to try to catch or find them.

Often appears as...

  • police are hot on the trail
  • detectives hot on the trail

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "hot on somebody’s/something’stracks/trail"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Urgency Implied

This phrase often indicates a sense of urgency and immediate action in pursuing someone.

Illustration for Urgency Implied
Detectives are hot on the thief's trail, searching every possible hideout.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Literal

The phrase is usually used metaphorically, not meaning someone is physically close behind.

Illustration for Not Literal
The competition is hot on our tracks with their new product release.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Determined Pursuit

It conveys the pursuer's determination to follow the lead until the end.

Illustration for Determined Pursuit
The journalist was hot on the trail of the scandal, revealing truths at every turn.
Visual representation of the word "Hot on somebody’s/something’stracks/trail"

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