running on impulse engines

In the original Star Trek series, whenever the main engines (warp drive) broke down (which was pretty frequent) the Enterprise would only be able to move using "impulse engines" - a low power, sub-lightspeed manouvering system based on a small fusion ram/ion drive.

By inference, someone described as "running on impilse engines" or "impulse power only" is either:

1. Very tired (a.k.a. 'running on empty')

2. Genuinely ill

3. (derog.) Slow and/or stupid.

"Jesus, I've just had to brief the sales guys on the new product.... they're all running on impulse engies up there".

"You want to go for a beer ?"

"No, man, I'm running on impulse engines... got to go home and grab some sleep."

by Eighth of Seven May 09, 2007

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running down wind

When you seem to be making the right decisions based on the moment but all the results are running 'down wind' from other people spoiling the outcome.

An animal in the forest wants to be 'downwind' of its hunter so the hunter doesn't get a sniff of the prey.
All upwind are 'seen' by those downwind as the wind blows away from them.

"I went and spoke to an advisor about a superannuation investment but when I saved and deposited the amount-the savings went running down wind with the market collapse"

"I follow coaches advice and play wide reciver for the final play but the opposition always pre-interprets the play making me feel like I'm constantly running down wind"!

by Goosebump11 June 03, 2011

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