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Region: UK | Usage example: They stopped at the pub for one for the road.

One for the road

Meaning

A final drink before leaving.

Usage

Common in British pubs when the pace slows.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

18th century custom of a drink before a long journey.

Travelers recorded the saying in diaries from the 1800s.

Related Idioms

Kick the can down the road

Postpone a difficult decision or problem.

Get the show on the road

Start an activity or project with action.

Hit the road

Leave or begin a journey.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.