not miss a beat
not miss a beat
To not slow down, pause, or lose one's place, especially in spite of a potential distraction or disruption. The boss didn't miss a beat during the meeting when his son-in-law walked in 45 minutes late. You can't fluster my mother. No matter how you try to shock or annoy her, she never misses a beat.
See also: beat, miss, not
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
miss a beat
Hesitate momentarily, out of embarrassment or confusion. This expression is most often used in a negative context, as in He sidestepped the reporter's probe into his personal life without missing a beat, or Not missing a beat, she outlined all the reasons for her decision. This expression alludes to the regular beat of musical time. [Mid-1900s]
See also: beat, miss
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
not miss a beat
If someone does not miss a beat, they always know what is happening and so are able to take advantage of every situation. This time we played like machines. The longer the game went the stronger we got, and we never missed a beat. Note: The `beat' referred to here is probably a heartbeat, although it may refer to a beat in music.
See also: beat, miss, not
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.
miss a beat
hesitate or falter, especially in demanding circumstances or when making a transition from one activity to another.See also: beat, miss
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
- miss a beat
- not skip a beat
- skip a beat
- without skipping a beat
- without missing a beat
- get on with (something)
- get on with it
- recollect
- re-collect
- recollect (oneself)