Like a man possessed Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To act with extreme energy, intensity, or emotion, as if driven by an uncontrollable force.
Usage & Nuances
Used in informal and literary contexts to describe intense, sometimes uncontrolled actions. Can refer to positive (working hard) or negative (angry outburst) energy. The subject is not always male—'man' is generic. Sometimes used for humor or exaggeration.
Example Sentences
He worked like a man possessed to finish the project.
basic
She cleaned the house like a man possessed before the guests arrived.
basic
The kids ran around the park like a man possessed.
basic
When she started painting, it was like a man possessed—she didn't even notice the time passing.
natural
He ate his dinner like a man possessed after coming back from football practice.
natural
He typed out his story like a man possessed, finishing it in just one night.
natural