I hate to eat and run
Said apologetically by someone who has to leave a gathering very soon after eating. I hate to eat and run, but I have to catch the next train back to the city. I hate to eat and run, especially because I barely got to talk to you tonight. I hate to eat and run, but I have to go pick up my kids from school. It was great to see you, though!
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
(I) hate to eat and run.
Cliché an apology made by someone who must leave a social event soon after eating. Bill: Well, I hate to eat and run, but it's getting late. Sue: Oh, you don't have to leave, do you? Bill: I think I really must. Mary: Oh, my goodness! I hate to eat and run, but I have to catch an early plane tomorrow. Bob: Do you have to go? Mary: Afraid so.
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.