The phrase "across lots" typically refers to traversing or moving over a piece of land or an area that may not have a defined path or roadway. It is often used in contexts where someone is taking a shortcut by going directly over terrain instead of following roads or designated walkways. It holds more frequent use in informal speech than in formal writing.
Translation: Decidimos ir por atajos para llegar al parque más rápido.
She took her bike across lots to avoid the heavy traffic.
Translation: Ella llevó su bicicleta por atajos para evitar el tráfico pesado.
The kids often play across lots when they’re heading to school.
While "across lots" is not a part of many well-known idiomatic expressions, it does evoke a sense of moving quickly or taking shortcuts. Here are some idiomatic expressions that include the word "lot" and similar ideas of traveling or navigating:
Translation: Tengo muchas responsabilidades esta semana con el trabajo y los compromisos familiares.
"Count your blessings, not your problems" (not directly related but uses "lot")
Translation: A veces, cuando me quejo, me recuerdo que debo contar mis bendiciones, no mis problemas.
"A lot of ground to cover"
The word "across" comes from the Middle English acros, which means 'to the other side' or 'in a crosswise direction'. "Lot" has its origins in Old English lott, which meant 'portion' or 'assignment’. Together, "across lots" implies moving across a defined area or parcels of land.
Through the fields
Antonyms:
This comprehensive analysis of "across lots" covers its usage, meanings, examples in context, etymology, and related expressions in English.