The idiom “Every dog has its day” means that everyone gets their moment, and has been used by ancient Greeks, Romans, and Europeans. It can refer to overcoming oppression or achieving success. In modern times, it typically means that everyone has the potential for success. In the past, it was understood to refer to revenge. […]
“Pricing upon request” is a term used in advertising when pricing information is not readily available. This can be due to privacy concerns, fluctuating prices, or the personalized nature of a product or service. It can also be used as a placeholder when the price has not been set yet or to discourage casual buyers. […]
“Better safe than sorry” means it’s better to take precautions, even if inconvenient or expensive, than to risk a bad situation later. It’s a comparative statement that compares safety to regret. The phrase has been used since the 18th century and is now commonplace, often referring to both physical and legal safety. The phrase “better […]
“The blind leading the blind” refers to ineffective leadership where leaders lack skills or foresight. The phrase has been used for centuries in art and literature, and has roots in religious texts. “Blind to the world” refers to a general lack of awareness, while “blinders” indicate voluntary avoidance. When English speakers use the phrase “the […]
The phrase “calm before the storm” refers to a period of stillness before a period of intense activity or turmoil. It can be positive or negative and is often used interchangeably with similar phrases. The phrase is based on the literal calm before a storm, but can also refer to a symbolic calm or storm. […]
“Sensei” is a Japanese honorific used to show respect for teachers, mentors, and authorities, including those in the arts, law, and medicine. It is also used in martial arts and religious practices. Visitors to Japan should pay attention to how people are addressed and follow their lead. The term is not always used for socially […]
The idiom “back foot” refers to a defensive or losing position, possibly originating from boxing, cricket, rugby, or soccer. It has evolved to be used in abstract competitions, such as in business. “Hindfoot” and other idioms can also be used to express the same idea. The English idiom “back foot” refers to a defensive or […]
The idiom “going bananas” was coined in 1968 and is a result of cultural shifts and experimentation in the 60s and 70s. College students are often the first to adopt new language trends, and the expression may have originated from smoking banana peels, which was believed to have psychedelic effects. The expression remains in use […]
The Saxon genitive explains the origin of the apostrophe in English, which is used to indicate ownership. It derives from Old English, where “es” was commonly used at the end of certain words. Printers eventually replaced the “e” with an apostrophe. Other theories exist, but the Saxon genitive is marked by an apostrophe and an […]
Volvo’s name means “I roll” in Latin, chosen when it was a ball bearing manufacturer. It was sold to Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010 and was the first to produce cars with laminated windshields and roll cage design. The name of the automaker “Volvo” means “I roll” in Latin. Before Volvo started making cars, it […]
“Give up the ghost” is an English saying associated with death and giving up. Its origins may be traced to the Christian Bible. Other phrases used to describe death include “kicking the bucket” and “buying the farm.” The phrase can also refer to giving up on a business or romantic situation. Give up the ghost […]
A bone of contention is a disagreement that causes animosity between two parties until resolved. It can stem from differences in beliefs, politics, or even parenting. The phrase’s origin is debated, but it may come from dogs fighting over a bone. Not all disagreements become bones of contention, only when one party insists on the […]
The idiom “in the running” means being a candidate or still competing. It originated from horse racing and is now used for any type of competition. It can refer to individuals or organizations, and has an opposite corollary, “out of the running.” The English idiom “in the running” refers to someone who is a candidate […]
Sic is a Latin word used in print to indicate accurate reproduction, especially in transcripts. It can also be used for strange spellings or errors in old printed materials. It is often used dismissively to point out errors and can be used for ridicule. Sic is a Latin word that means “thus” or “thus”. It […]
The phrase “away from the madding crowd” comes from Thomas Hardy’s novel of the same name, which focuses on characters trying to find peace despite impulsive decisions. The title draws inspiration from three poems, including one by Edmund Spenser from 1579. Hardy and Thomas Gray valued pastoral country life, which they feared was threatened by […]
The English phrase “chop and change” refers to frequent changes, often in a person’s intentions. It has various meanings, including sudden changes, trade or exchange, and changing positions or issues. It is used in different ways in English-speaking communities, especially in the UK and can have negative connotations in politics. The English idiom “chop and […]
“Apple polish” is a term for flattery used to gain favor or get what one wants. It can be a gift or verbal appeal, but is considered a logical fallacy. Children often use it to get what they want, and adults use it in politics and marketing. The formula is to flatter, make a request […]
The phrase “bun in the oven” is a common English idiom for a pregnant woman, with origins dating back to the early 20th century. It compares the unborn child to a bun and the mother’s womb to an oven. Other slang phrases for pregnancy include “preggers” and “expecting.” Halloween costumes based on this phrase are […]
The origin of the expression “Great Scott” is unclear, with some sources claiming it refers to United States Army general Winfield Scott, while others suggest it may be a euphemism for “Great God”. Despite its uncertain origins, the phrase has become popular in pop culture, appearing in TV shows, movies, and even as names for […]
De jure refers to policies established by law, while de facto refers to practices that are commonly accepted. Discrimination can exist despite de jure laws, and changing laws alone may not change cultural values. De jure government is legal and with consent, while de facto is by force. De jure segregation is legal segregation, as […]
