Yes, in fact by saying " ... possibility of getting out of trouble by accelerating away quickly" you've got the correct handle on things.
It's characteristic of jet engines that they have to be above about 78% RPM to respond quickly. You might have to do this in the event of a need to go around late on in the approach. Up to that point, the emphasis is on low drag/low noise and hence low fuel consumption. At around four miles from touchdown, the final stage of flap is extended, increasing the drag, requiring more thrust, and is generally accompanied by a little bit of vibration.