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to cause fear or concern by showing a warning sign
The exact origin of the idiom "set alarm bells" is not well-documented, but it likely stems from the association of alarm bells with alerting or warning people to potential danger. Bells have been used throughout history as signals to indicate emergencies or threats, and the phrase "set alarm bells" figuratively extends this concept to situations that warrant attention or caution. It is used to describe a situation or action that triggers a sense of warning, concern, or suspicion. It often signifies that a potential problem, danger, or issue has been identified, prompting people to take notice and investigate further.
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used when a situation suddenly becomes very intense or chaotic
The origin of the phrase "all hell break loose" is not precisely documented, but it is believed to have evolved from earlier expressions that vividly describe a chaotic and uncontrollable situation. The phrase is used to describe moments when a situation quickly deteriorates or becomes extremely chaotic, with various problems, conflicts, or disturbances erupting simultaneously.
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to worsen a situation to a point that it requires immediate action
The idiom "bring something to a head" likely derives from the idea of a physical ailment or issue reaching a critical or severe stage. It is used metaphorically to describe the act of taking actions or making decisions to resolve or confront a problem, dispute, or situation that has been escalating or festering over time.
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to become very dangerous or problematic in a way that demands immediate action
The idiom "come to a head" has its origins in the world of medicine, referring to a boil or abscess when it reaches a critical point, eventually bursting and releasing its contents. In a figurative sense, this expression is used to describe a situation that has been building up or escalating over time and has finally reached a critical point or climax, often requiring resolution or action.
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used when someone or something is subjected to a serious threat or danger
The idiom "on the line" originated from sports, particularly in tennis, where a ball is deemed "in" if it lands on the court boundary lines. Over time, it has evolved into a broader idiom, signifying a situation where something important or at stake is under consideration, decision, or risk. It is often used to describe circumstances where there is potential for consequences, commitments, or outcomes to be determined.
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(in reference to a business or relationship) in a difficult or troubled state, and may be at risk of falling apart
The origin of the idiom "on the rocks" is uncertain, but it may have originated from the idea of a ship running aground on rocks, which can cause significant damage and lead to the sinking of the vessel. Over time, the phrase has come to be used more generally to describe any situation where something is in trouble or facing difficulties, whether it be a personal relationship, a business venture, or any other situation where stability or success is threatened.
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used to refer to a situation in which someone is forced or committed to fulfill a responsibility, often due to prior agreements or expectations
The idiom "on the hook" originates from fishing terminology, where a fish that is caught is said to be "on the hook" until it is reeled in. In a broader sense, the phrase is used to describe a situation where someone is trapped or obligated to do something, often due to prior commitments, responsibilities, or expectations.
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to be killed or dead, typically conveying the body has been disposed of by being thrown into water
The idiom "sleeping with the fishes" has roots in mafia and gangster culture, particularly in the United States. It's often associated with organized crime and the practice of disposing of someone's body by dumping it into a body of water, typically to hide evidence of a murder. The exact origin of the phrase is uncertain, but it became popularized through its use in movies, television, and literature depicting underworld activities.
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to cause significant damage or destruction to something by subjecting it to intense heat or fire
The idiom "burn something to a crisp" likely originates from the visual and descriptive imagery of something being completely incinerated or reduced to ashes or cinders after a fire. It is used metaphorically to describe a situation where something has been thoroughly and excessively burnt, often signifying an irreparable state of damage or destruction.
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used to threaten someone or seriously warn them
The idiom "or else" likely originates from Old English and has been in use for centuries. It is used to introduce a consequence, typically a negative one, that will occur if a specific action or condition is not met.
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used to refer to someone who is being targeted by another person or thing for a specific action, often with the intent to catch, arrest, stop, or harm
The idiom "in one's crosshairs" originates from the field of targeting and aiming, particularly in shooting or military contexts, where crosshairs are used as aiming points in a telescopic sight or a reticle on a screen. Figuratively, it is used to describe a situation in which someone or something is the focus of close attention, scrutiny, or a potential threat.
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