idioms with “steam”

Full steam ahead

To carry on with full power

“The budget was approved so we are ready to go full steam ahead.”

Under one’s own steam

Without help from anyone else

“Thanks for the offer of help, Tanaka-san, but I really want to do this under my own steam.”

Pick up steam

To become stronger, to gain momentum

“We got off to a slow start, but now the development team is picking up steam.”

Blow off steam

To get rid of anger

“Kinuta-san went for a long run to blow off steam after he was reprimanded by his boss.”

Run out of steam

To tire, or weaken

“The economic recovery seems to be running out of steam but consumer spending is steady.”