a headlong rush for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a headlong rush for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a hurried or reckless movement towards a goal or objective, often without careful consideration. Example: "The team made a headlong rush for the finish line, eager to secure their victory."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

A headlong rush for biofuels might have similar effects.

The Economist

With the zeal of a boy learning a new game, Mr. Clinton soon began a headlong rush for the conservation record books, accomplished mostly by executive fiat.

The New York Times

Now it too is moving to LTE .AT&T and Verizon spent tens of billions of dollars to acquire new 700MHz licenses at auction and from existing licence holders in a headlong rush for 4G.

The Economist

At the climax is what I think is a culminating kiss, but it's written so opaquely, it could equally be a bite; not the kind of confusion you want in a headlong rush for the end.

The Guardian - Books

But by Friday morning, that precaution had given way to a headlong rush for the European Space Agency ESAA), which just 2 days earlier was celebrating the historic success of the Rosetta mission.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

After more stuttering chords, the music breaks into a headlong rush of twisting 16th notes and nonsensical arpeggios.

The New York Times - Arts

But there is no way to read the 2000 election as a mandate for a headlong rush to an antimissile defense system.

The New York Times

There has been a headlong rush to open restaurants in an area formerly better known for its motorcycle gangs.

The New York Times - Arts

Foster for adopt must not become associated with a headlong rush into adoption.

The Guardian

It is a picture of a headlong rush into failure.

The New York Times

Every conversation, short or long, was a headlong rush.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a headlong rush for" when you want to emphasize the speed and potential recklessness of an action or decision. It often implies a lack of careful planning or consideration.

Common error

Avoid using "a headlong rush for" when describing situations involving careful planning and calculated risk. This phrase suggests impulsivity, which is inappropriate when describing strategic decision-making.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a headlong rush for" functions as a noun phrase that typically modifies a verb, describing the manner in which an action is performed. It emphasizes the speed and potential recklessness of the action. As Ludwig AI reports, the phrase is deemed correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a headlong rush for" describes a hurried and potentially reckless pursuit of a goal. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable, although it's not overly common, appearing primarily in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, consider its implications of impulsivity and potential negative consequences. Alternatives like "a frantic dash for" or "an impetuous pursuit of" might be more appropriate depending on the specific context and desired nuance. Be mindful of avoiding the phrase in situations that call for careful planning and strategic decision-making.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a frantic dash for

Emphasizes the chaotic and hurried nature of the movement.

an impetuous pursuit of

Highlights the lack of forethought and impulsiveness in the endeavor.

a reckless sprint toward

Focuses on the speed and disregard for potential danger.

a hasty scramble for

Suggests a disorganized and hurried attempt to obtain something.

a precipitous plunge into

Implies a sudden and uncontrolled descent into a situation.

a wild stampede toward

Conveys a sense of uncontrolled and panicked movement in a group.

a breakneck race for

Emphasizes the high speed and potential danger of the pursuit.

an unrestrained surge toward

Highlights the lack of limits or control in the movement.

a pell-mell charge toward

Indicates a disorganized and chaotic advance.

a mad scramble to get

Emphasizes the frantic effort and desperation in trying to obtain something.

FAQs

What does "a headlong rush for" mean?

It implies a fast, often reckless movement or pursuit towards a specific goal, usually without careful planning or consideration.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a headlong rush for"?

Use it when describing actions that are characterized by speed, impulsivity, and a lack of careful planning. It suggests a sense of urgency and potential danger or negative consequences.

What can I say instead of "a headlong rush for"?

You can use alternatives like "a frantic dash for", "an impetuous pursuit of", or "a reckless sprint toward", depending on the context.

Is "a headlong rush for" negative?

It often carries a negative connotation, implying that the speed and lack of planning may lead to undesirable outcomes. However, it can be neutral depending on the context, simply emphasizing the speed of the action.