The phrase “in spades” means abundance and originates from the game of bridge. It is an idiom used to refer to anything positive or negative, and can replace phrases like “a lot of” or “many”. The phrase “in spades” basically means a lot or in abundance. It can be used in many different ways, indicating […]
“Blood and Thunder” is a minced oath used as a curse or expression of surprise, with origins in avoiding using God’s name as a dirty word. It appears in literary works and has been used as a title in popular culture. The phrase may have originated from a pre-Christian oath to the God of Thunder. […]
“Behind the eight ball” means being in a difficult situation. Its origin is from the game of billiards where the eight ball is a challenge. It is now used for general problems and procrastination, synonymous with “under pressure”. The English idiom “behind the eight ball” is used to indicate that someone or some group is […]
“The best thing since sliced bread” is an idiom used to express something innovative and superior. It originated from the introduction of pre-sliced bread in the 1920s. The phrase has expanded to other scenarios and is still used today. Sometimes presented as “the best thing since sliced bread,” “the best thing since sliced bread” is […]
“Lipstick on a pig” is a phrase used to describe attempts to make an unattractive fact or object more appealing, which is often unsuccessful. Pigs are commonly used as a symbol for something undesirable, and similar phrases have been used since biblical times. The phrase gained popularity during the 2008 US presidential election, with both […]
The phrase “a rolling stone gathers no moss” has had two opposing meanings over time. Originally, it meant staying in one place was beneficial, but now it suggests success depends on action and change. The phrase’s meaning has reversed with societal changes, and it is now associated with ambition and movement. The metaphor remains the […]
“Black and blue” refers to bruises caused by blood under the skin. It’s often used to describe physical conflict, but can also refer to injuries from inanimate objects. “Black eye” can also mean damage to one’s reputation. “Blue Monday” may refer to punishment of deserting sailors. These idioms belong to the category of medical idioms, […]
“A month of Sunday” means a long time. It can refer to a literal month full of Sundays, religious and cultural connotations, or an event that is unlikely to happen. The simplest definition of the idiom “a month of Sunday” is “a very long time”, although like many sayings, it is possible to dissect this […]
The idiom “down to earth” can mean realistic, genuine, self-confident, or stubborn. It suggests a person is reasonable and level-headed, but can also imply boring or sloppy. It can also indicate authenticity or inflexibility. The phrase “down to earth” can have many connotations. It can indicate that a person is realistic and practical. Likewise, the […]
“Big fish in a small pond” refers to an individual or company that is prominent in a limited area, but may not be as successful in a larger environment. This can apply to various contexts, including social circles, businesses, and even ruling families. While sometimes used negatively, achieving prominence in a small community can be […]
“Have a go” means attempting to achieve something, often after others have failed. It implies the person may not succeed. Idioms like this provide shorter, more folksy ways of saying things. “Try” is used when someone is unlikely to achieve their goal but will valiantly try anyway. “Try it” has the same meaning. “Have a […]
“Bite your tongue” is an idiom that means to show restraint when speaking. It is often done out of kindness and respect for others, such as sparing their feelings or maintaining harmony in relationships. This concept can be applied in personal, social, and business settings. Emotions and anger can affect one’s ability to bite their […]
“Down the drain” is an English idiom meaning something has been lost or wasted, often associated with money. Idioms acquire meaning through constant use and can refer to wasted hopes, dreams, or efforts. “Down the drain” is an English idiom meaning that something has been lost or wasted. The meaning of the idiom comes from […]
“Take him around the neck” is an English idiom meaning to receive punishment for an improper or reckless action. It implies that the action was a risk taken by the person and often uses the neck as a symbol of vulnerability. Idioms add color and impact to speech. When someone is about to “take him […]
Assets under management refer to the situation where a bank or third party holds and accounts for the funds of an investor, while the investor retains control. The bank acts as a security measure and ensures accurate records, making it a common arrangement for major investment portfolios. The bank’s job is to maintain accurate records […]
The idiom “butt naked” refers to being completely undressed, with the origin of “buck” possibly being a polite substitution for “butt.” The phrase’s origins are uncertain, with theories ranging from a skinless deer to a slang word for buttocks. Joshua Milton Blahyi, a former Liberian warlord, earned the nickname “General Butt Naked” for his fighting […]
The idiom “shouting at the top of your lungs” can express extreme joy or anger. It is used positively in situations such as sports events or proposals, but negatively in situations like grief or offense. The behavior is acceptable in some contexts but not others. “Shuting at the top of my lungs” is one of […]
The idiom “It’s a jungle out there” describes a dangerous world where everyone is out for themselves. It draws on the tradition of portraying nature as menacing and chaotic, and is part of a larger group of idioms that contrast civilization with the wild. The term has two common usages, one as a warning to […]
The idiom “cat among pigeons” refers to intentionally causing a disturbance. It comes from Britain and describes the chaos that would ensue if a cat were released among captive birds. The phrase is not to be taken literally and has been used in literature and music. The phrase “cat among pigeons” is an idiom that […]
The Monica Lewinsky scandal revealed a hidden flaw in President Clinton’s character, causing disappointment and polarization. The expression “feet of clay” refers to the vulnerability of those placed on pedestals, as we all have hidden flaws. Disclosure can lead to true respect and admiration. During the early years of the Clinton administration, many citizens had […]
