made a beeline for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "made a beeline for" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone moving quickly and directly towards a specific target or destination. Example: "As soon as the doors opened, she made a beeline for the front row to get the best seat."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Bloomfield made a beeline for the water.

The New Yorker

Few made a beeline for the exit.

The New York Times - Travel

He made a beeline for the van.

The New York Times - Arts

Then he made a beeline for the register.

The New York Times

Then he made a beeline for the bumper cars.

The New York Times

But, as a former bass player, I made a beeline for the double bass.

Princeton University

Then I went a bit E and a bit SE, then made a beeline for Omaha.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Orsini made a beeline for the most compelling, most controversial option he could find — health insurance.

Stanford University

Finally, I made a beeline for Houston, then zigzagged NW-NE to Dallas". Interviewee N: "Ooh!

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

But despite our large crowd, I made a beeline for Dawn.

Independent

Not long after, the fight ended, and Cotto's mother made a beeline for Margarito's corner.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "made a beeline for" to vividly describe someone moving quickly and directly towards a specific location or object. This phrase adds a sense of purpose and energy to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "made a beeline for" when the movement isn't direct or purposeful. This phrase implies a clear intention and a straight path, so it's not suitable for describing aimless wandering or indirect routes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "made a beeline for" functions as a verb phrase within a sentence, typically describing a subject's action. It signifies a direct and rapid movement towards a specific object or location, as confirmed by Ludwig AI's analysis and numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "made a beeline for" is a common and correct idiomatic expression used to describe a direct and rapid movement toward a specific target. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. While primarily found in news and media contexts, it is also present in academic writing. When using this phrase, ensure that the context implies a purposeful and swift movement. For alternative phrasing, consider options like "headed straight to" or "rushed towards" depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

headed straight to

Indicates a direct course of action, similar to "made a beeline for" but less idiomatic.

went directly to

Emphasizes the directness of the movement, without the implication of speed.

rushed towards

Suggests a sense of urgency and speed in the movement.

dashed towards

Implies a quick and energetic movement in a particular direction.

hurried to

Focuses on the speed of the movement and the intent to reach the destination quickly.

made haste to

A more formal way of saying someone moved quickly towards something.

sprinted toward

Suggests a very fast and energetic movement, like running.

navigated swiftly to

Implies a smooth and efficient movement towards a specific location, but it's less common.

gravitated towards

Suggests a natural inclination or attraction that drives the movement.

set a direct course for

Emphasizes the intentionality and straight path taken towards a destination, less common in everyday speech.

FAQs

How can I use "made a beeline for" in a sentence?

You can use "made a beeline for" to describe someone moving quickly and directly towards something. For example, "After the concert, she "made a beeline for" the exit to avoid the crowd."

What does "made a beeline for" mean?

"Made a beeline for" means to go straight to someone or something as quickly as you can. It suggests a direct and purposeful movement.

What can I say instead of "made a beeline for"?

You can use alternatives like "headed straight to", "went directly to", or "rushed towards" depending on the context.

Is "made a beeline for" formal or informal?

"Made a beeline for" is generally considered to be an informal to neutral expression suitable for most everyday conversations and writing.