get out of Dodge
To leave, especially to leave a difficult or dangerous environment with all possible haste.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The party became too loud, so we decided to get out of Dodge.”
“He sees the police car and decides to get out of Dodge.”
“The store is too crowded, so let's get out of Dodge.”
“When the storm warnings started appearing on the news, we packed our bags and decided to get out of Dodge immediately.”
“The meeting turned into a heated argument about the budget, so I quietly grabbed my laptop and got out of Dodge.”
“If the landlord shows up to collect the overdue rent, you should probably get out of Dodge before he sees you.”
“As soon as the fire alarm started ringing in the hotel, the guests grabbed their passports and got out of Dodge using the nearest emergency exit.”
“Realizing that the political situation in the capital was rapidly deteriorating, the ambassador advised his staff to get out of Dodge before the borders closed.”
disputed origin
An allusion to Dodge City, Kansas, a busy cattle town in the late 19th century notorious for gunfighters, gambling, brothels and saloons. Possibly inspired by the radio and television series Gunsmoke (1952–1975).
- 01
as it gets
As it is possible to be.
- 02
been there, done that, got the T-shirt
Alternative form of been there, done that, bought the T-shirt.
- 03
can't get enough
Greatly enjoys; likes a lot.
- 04
cat got someone's tongue
Why is someone not saying anything?
- 05
could not get elected dogcatcher
Said of someone, particularly a politician, who is extremely unpopular.
- 06
dodge a bullet
To have a narrow escape; to avoid injury, disaster, or some other undesirable situation.
- 07
don't get someone started
Used to attempt to avoid or abbreviate a discussion that speaker or hearer may wish to avoid.
- 08
five will get you ten
I strongly believe.
Last updated August 10, 2026