Run off the smell of an oily rag Australia New Zealand idiomatic
To operate using a very small amount of something as a source of power.
I love this CD player because it not only is easy to bring along but also runs off the smell of an oily rag.
We are using fluorescent bulbs because they run off the smell of an oily rag.
If you are looking for a car running off the smell of an oily rag, I highly recommend you take a look at this one.
The verb "run" must be conjugated according to its tense.
This phrase was formed based on the meaning of the phrase "the smell of an oily rag."
Used to describe someone who is good at persuading people to do or believe something
Jane is a fast talker. She has sold many luxurious villas since she worked here.