The idiom "in hand" originated from Old English and has its roots in the literal sense of physically holding or grasping something in one's hand. The word "hand" has been used in various languages throughout history to signify control, power, or possession. It is frequently used in professional settings, such as business, project management, or organizational contexts, to indicate that a task or project is under control and progressing well.

What is the origin of the idiom "in hand" and when to use it?

in hand

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The idiom "make no bones about something" originated from the medieval practice of divination, where bones were used to predict the future. It is used to refer to being straightforward, direct, and unambiguous in expressing one's opinions, intentions, or feelings about something.

What is the origin of the idiom "make no bones about something" and when to use it?

to [make] no bones about {sth}

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The idiom "bone of contention" has roots in medieval English, where it originated from the literal meaning of a "bone" as an object of dispute or contention between two dogs. The phrase evolved to describe any contentious issue or subject that serves as a cause for disagreement or conflict between individuals or groups. Over time, it transitioned from its literal origins to a metaphorical usage, becoming a common expression in the English language to denote a central point of disagreement or conflict.

What is the origin of the idiom "bone of contention" and when to use it?

bone of contention

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close at hand

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The idiom "jump out of one's skin" likely emerged from the natural physiological response of the human body to sudden surprises or shocks. The phrase "jump out of one's skin" is used in various contexts to describe moments of extreme surprise, shock, or fright. It is commonly employed in storytelling, informal conversations, and descriptive writing to vividly depict the intensity of a person's reaction to a startling event.

What is the origin of the idiom "jump out of one's skin" and when to use it?

to [jump|leap] out of {one's} skin

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The phrase "skin and bone" is an idiomatic expression that originated as a descriptive comparison. It emphasizes the thinness of a person by comparing them to the bare minimum of flesh, consisting only of skin and bone. It is used to describe someone who is extremely thin, to the point where their skeletal structure is prominent and visible. It suggests that the person lacks significant muscle mass and body weight.

What is the origin of the idiom "skin and bone" and when to use it?

skin and bone

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The idiom "save one's skin" has origins in the idea of preserving one's physical well-being or avoiding harm. It is a figurative expression used to describe actions taken to ensure one's safety or protect oneself from danger, often at the expense of others or in challenging situations.

What is the origin of the idiom "save one's skin" and when to use it?

to [save] {one's} [skin|neck|hide|bacon]

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to improve

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to enhance

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to transform

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to restore

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to evolve

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to determine

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to reform

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to alter

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to reverse

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to progress

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to revert

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The origin of the idiom "chop and change" is believed to have emerged from the world of sports, particularly cricket. In cricket, "chop" refers to hitting the ball with a chopping motion, while "change" refers to switching positions or tactics. The idiom metaphorically represents the act of continuously altering one's approach or strategy, much like a cricketer changing their shot or position on the field. It is often used to highlight the lack of stability, reliability, or commitment displayed by an individual.

What is the origin of the idiom "chop and change" and when to use it?

to [chop] and [change]

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stride

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to [pull] {one's} socks up

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The idiom "square one" is believed to have originated in the game of Snakes and Ladders, where players who land on a snake's head are sent back to the beginning of the game. In modern usage, it can refer to any situation where a person or group has to start over from the beginning. It can apply to personal or professional contexts, and can refer to both minor and major setbacks.

What is the origin of the idiom "square one" and when to use it?

square one

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A goalpost is a vertical structure used in sports like soccer, rugby, and American football to mark the area where players aim to score points. In soccer and rugby, the goalpost consists of two vertical posts with a crossbar stretched between them, forming the goal. Players aim to get the ball past the goalkeeper or between the posts to score. In American football, the goalpost has two upright posts and a crossbar, and players attempt to kick the ball through the posts for a field goal or extra point. Goalposts are key for marking scoring areas in these sports.

What is a "goalpost"?

goalpost

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The phrase "go from strength to strength" is believed to have originated from the Bible, specifically from Psalm 84:7, which reads "They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion." The phrase suggests that someone or something is becoming increasingly successful or powerful, building on previous achievements and continuing to improve over time.

What is the origin of the idiom "go from strength to strength" and when to use it?

to [go] from strength to strength

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to [turn] upside down

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Here you will find the vocabulary from Unit 1 - 1A in the Insight Advanced coursebook, such as "close at hand", "stride", "revert", etc.

Insight Advanced "Einheit 1 - 1A" Wortschatz