détaler

bolt, scurry away

verb deh-tah-LAY Rare

Usage Note

Détaler vividly describes fleeing quickly, like a startled rabbit. The image of détaler comme un lapin (to bolt like a rabbit) is a common French simile. It is informal and implies haste or cowardice.

Examples

"Le voleur a détalé à toute vitesse."

Natural Translation

The thief bolted at full speed.

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