make like a tree and leave
make like a tree and leave (pun/idiom)
/ˈmeɪk laɪk ə tri ænd liːv/
- Used humorously to tell someone to go away quickly, often in a playful or sarcastic manner.
- Functions as a witty or ironic way to express that someone should exit or depart from a place immediately.
- Serves as a pun on the phrase “make like a tree and leave,” with leave playing on leaf, implying a swift departure.
- Acts as a joking command that combines wordplay with the image of a tree “leaving” to mock someone or lighten a tense situation.
Example Sentences
- He was getting on everyone’s nerves, so I told him to make like a tree and leave.
- When the conversation got awkward, she decided to make like a tree and leave.
- After spilling the drink on the boss, he knew it was time to make like a tree and leave.
- The comedian wrapped up his set by saying it was time to make like a tree and leave.
- As soon as the teacher caught them cheating, they tried to make like a tree and leave before getting in trouble.
Origin and History
The phrase “make like a tree and leave” is a humorous idiom used to suggest that someone should depart. It plays on the double meaning of “leave,” which can mean both to depart and the foliage of a tree. This wordplay forms the crux of the expression’s humor.
Earliest Recorded Usage
The earliest documented use of this phrase dates back to 1926. In the “Wise-crack Dictionary” by Maines and Grant, the expression “Imitate a tree – Leave” is listed, indicating its presence in American slang during that period.
Geographical Origins
The phrase is believed to have originated in the United States. Its early appearances in American slang dictionaries and usage in mid-20th-century American culture support this assertion.
Popularization Through Media
While the idiom was in use earlier, it gained widespread recognition through its inclusion in popular media. Notably, the 1985 film “Back to the Future” featured a character, Biff Tannen, who humorously mangled the phrase by saying, “Why don’t you make like a tree and get out of here?” This comedic misuse highlighted the phrase and contributed to its popularity.
Cultural Impact and Usage
Beyond its cinematic appearance, the phrase has been used in various contexts to add a light-hearted or humorous tone when suggesting someone should leave. Its playful nature makes it a favored choice in informal conversations.
Variations and Similar Expressions
The structure of “make like a [noun] and [verb]” has been employed in various other expressions with similar intent. Examples include:
- “Make like a banana and split.”
- “Make like a bee and buzz off.”
- “Make like a drum and beat it.”
These variations utilize puns to humorously suggest departure.
Similar Idioms
Last update:
Share your opinions