Before you can say Jack Robinson Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Speed Implication It suggests something happens so quickly it's almost surprising. She accepted the job offer before you can say Jack Robinson. Pro Tip 2/3Colloquial Usage It's an informal saying, used more in casual conversations than in formal writing. He packed his bags and was gone before you can say Jack Robinson. Pro Tip 3/3Hyperbole Alert It's an exaggeration, as no action literally takes that short amount of time. The cookies sold out before you can say Jack Robinson.