On the lam Meaning in English
expression
ˈɑn/, /ˈɔn/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈɫæm
AHN-thuh-LAM
ˈɒn/ /ðə, ði/ /lˈæm
ON-thuh-LAM
Definition
"On the lam" is an informal expression meaning to be running away or hiding from the police or authorities, usually after committing a crime.
Usage & Nuances
Very informal, mainly used in American English, often in crime stories and movies. It usually refers to someone escaping after a crime, not just avoiding someone. Less common in everyday speech, and may sound slightly old-fashioned.
Spanish: a la fugaPortuguese (BR): foragido - fugindoPortuguese (PT): foragido - em fugaChinese (Simplified): 在逃Chinese (Traditional): 在逃Hindi: फरारArabic: هاربBengali: পালিয়ে থাকা - গা ঢাকা দিয়ে থাকা (পুলিশ থেকে)Russian: в бегахJapanese: 逃亡中Vietnamese: lẩn trốn - bỏ trốn (khỏi cảnh sát)Korean: 도주 중Turkish: firarda - kaçakUrdu: فرار میں - مفرورIndonesian: buron - melarikan diri (dari polisi)
Example Sentences
The robber is on the lam after escaping from prison.
basic
The man has been on the lam for two weeks.
basic
She went on the lam to avoid arrest.
basic
They say he's been on the lam since last summer.
natural
After the heist, the whole crew went on the lam.
natural
Being on the lam isn't as glamorous as movies make it look.
natural