Meaning: This idiom is used to describe two people who immediately like each other and get along very well from the first moment they meet. It implies a strong, positive, and instant rapport or connection between individuals.
Usage in Example Sentences:
- “When they met at the party, they hit it off right away and have been close friends ever since.”
- “I was nervous about meeting my new coworkers, but we hit it off during lunch.”
- “Despite their different backgrounds, they hit it off and started dating shortly after they met.”
Origin: The origin of the idiom “hit it off” dates back to the 18th century. Originally, “hit it off” meant to come to an agreement or reach an understanding quickly. Over time, the phrase evolved to specifically describe people who form an immediate and positive connection. The use of “hit” in this context suggests striking or encountering something with favorable results, and “off” emphasizes the swift nature of the interaction. The idiom has since become a common way to describe instant rapport or camaraderie between individuals.