The idiom "have one's way" does not have a specific historical origin. It has evolved naturally in the English language over time to express the concept of achieving or obtaining what one desires, despite opposition or contrary opinions. It implies a sense of determination, persistence, or assertiveness in pursuing one's goals or preferences.

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

to [have|get] {one's} (own|) way

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The idiom "not be caught dead" originates from the idea of preserving one's reputation and dignity. It conveys the strong sentiment that a person would rather face severe consequences, even death, than engage in a particular action or associate with something they strongly dislike or disapprove of. This idiom is used to emphasize that someone strongly dislikes or disapproves of a particular action, situation, or item. It is often employed to convey a sense of personal preference, moral objection, or social stigma.

What is the origin of the idiom "not be caught dead" and when to use it?

to {not} be (caught|seen) dead

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The idiom "one's cup of tea" originated in Britain and is rooted in the cultural significance of tea in British society. Tea is a popular beverage in Britain, and individuals have different preferences for how they like their tea prepared, such as the strength, sweetness, or addition of milk. The idiom metaphorically extends this preference for tea to other aspects of life. The idiom suggests that just as individuals have different preferences for how they like their tea, people have varied likes and dislikes in other aspects of life.

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

{one's} cup of tea

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The idiom "be one's scene" does not have a specific historical origin. It is a modern idiomatic expression that has developed over time in contemporary language usage. It used to describe something that aligns with a person's interests, preferences, or personal style. The phrase often implies a sense of comfort, enjoyment, or a feeling of belonging.

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

to [be] {one's} scene

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The idiomatic phrase "be in for a treat" does not have a specific historical origin. It is a common idiomatic expression that has evolved naturally in the English language over time. It is used to express anticipation or expectation of a positive and enjoyable experience. The phrase is often used to create a sense of excitement, surprise, or pleasure in the listener.

What is the origin of the idiom "be in for a treat" and when to use it?

to [be] in for a treat

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The phrase "at one's pleasure" originated during medieval and early modern times in English. It means that someone has the freedom or authority to do something as they like or prefer. It is commonly used in formal situations, like legal or official documents, to give someone the power to make decisions or take actions according to their own choice. It can also be used more generally to show that someone has the freedom to do something when it suits them or when they want to.

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

at {one's} pleasure

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The idiom "labor of love" originated from the combination of two concepts: "labor," which refers to work or effort, and "love," which signifies deep affection or passion. The idiom is used to emphasize that the motivation behind an endeavor comes from a personal sense of fulfillment, enjoyment, or commitment, rather than external factors.

What is the origin of the idiom "labor of love" and when to use it?

labor of love

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The idiom "feast one's eyes on somebody or something" originates from the figurative use of the word "feast." In its literal sense, a feast is a lavish meal or banquet characterized by abundance and enjoyment. However, when used metaphorically, "feast" implies indulgence, satisfaction, and delight in a particular experience. It is used to convey the idea of delighting in the visual appearance or beauty of a person, object, or scene. It suggests a sense of intense pleasure or enjoyment derived from looking at something that is visually appealing or captivating.

What is the origin of the idiom "feast one's eyes on somebody or something" and when to use it?

to [feast] {one's} eyes on  {sb/sth}

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The idiom "rabbit hole" originates from Lewis Carroll's famous novel "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland." In the story, Alice follows a white rabbit down a rabbit hole, which leads her into a whimsical and unpredictable world. The term "rabbit hole" has since been used metaphorically to describe a situation where someone becomes deeply interested or obsessed with something, unable to let go or move on easily.

What is the origin of the idiom "rabbit hole" and when to use it?

rabbit hole

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The idiom "do as one pleases" is a common expression that has been used in the English language for centuries. Its origin can be traced to the Middle English period, where the word "please" was derived from the Old French word "plaisir," meaning "to please" or "to satisfy." It is often used in discussions about personal choices, lifestyle preferences, and decision-making processes.

What is the origin of the idiom "do as one pleases" and when to use it?

to [do] as {sb} [please]

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The idiom "do one's own thing" became popular during the 1960s and 1970s when people were embracing individualism, personal freedom, and self-expression. It was a time when people valued being unique and expressing themselves freely. It is used to describe the act of pursuing one's interests, preferences, or passions independent of external influences or societal expectations. It implies a sense of autonomy, self-determination, and nonconformity.

What is the origin of the idiom "do one's own thing" and when to use it?

to [do] {one's} own thing

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The origin of the idiom "turn one's nose up" is believed to have originated from the physical gesture of lifting one's nose in the air or tilting it upward. This gesture is often associated with a facial expression of looking down on something or someone, showing that one thinks they are better or superior. Over time, this gesture and expression became associated with the idea of rejecting or showing dislike towards something or someone considered inferior. The phrase is commonly used in informal conversations and can carry a slightly negative or disapproving tone. It conveys the idea of someone displaying a sense of snobbishness or superiority, often looking down upon others or considering themselves above certain things.

What is the origin of the idiom "turn one's nose up" and when to use it?

to [turn] {one's} [nose] up

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The idiom "have an eye for" originates from the idea of having a keen sense of observation or a natural ability to notice and appreciate certain qualities in something. The use of "eye" in this idiom dates back to the 16th century when it was common to associate the ability to see with the ability to understand or appreciate something. It is used to describe someone who has a natural talent or ability to notice and appreciate certain qualities, especially in areas such as art, design, fashion, or any field that requires a good sense of aesthetics or detail.

What is the origin of the idiom "have an eye for" and when to use it?

to [have] an eye for {sth}

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The idiom "make a face at somebody or something" comes from the natural act of twisting or changing one's facial expressions to show dislike, displeasure, or amusement. It originated from the observation that people often use their faces to communicate their feelings or reactions. This idiom is commonly used in informal settings to describe the act of distorting one's face to convey a negative or humorous reaction towards someone or something. It can be used to express disapproval, annoyance, or mockery towards a person, object, or situation.

What is the origin of the idiom "make a face at somebody or something" and when to use it?

to [make|pull] a [face] at {sb/sth}

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The origin of the idiom "scratch the itch" is based on the literal act of scratching an itch on one's body to relieve the sensation of irritation or discomfort. It metaphorically represents taking action to satisfy a strong desire, address a need, or resolve a problem. This idiom is commonly used to convey the idea of fulfilling a longing or satisfying a craving. The phrase implies a proactive approach and a willingness to take action in order to achieve a desired outcome.

What is the origin of the idiom "scratch the itch" and when to use it?

to [scratch] (the|this|that) itch

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The origin of the idiom "someone can take it or leave it" is not attributed to a specific source or historical event. It is a common expression that has likely evolved naturally over time in the English language. It is used to convey that a person is indifferent or neutral towards something. It suggests that they have no strong preference or desire either to have or engage in a particular thing or activity.

What is the origin of the idiom "someone can take it or leave it" and when to use it?

{sb} (can|could) take it or leave it

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The origin of the idiom "too much like hard work" lies in the common understanding that certain tasks or activities require significant effort and exertion. It is used to convey the idea that a particular task or activity is excessively difficult or requires a substantial amount of effort. The idiom is informal in nature and is commonly used in everyday conversations to express the sentiment that the perceived effort outweighs the perceived benefit or reward.

What is the origin of the idiom "too much like hard work" and when to use it?

too much like hard work

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Explore English idioms that relate to taste and will, including "rabbit hole" and "labor of love".

Expressions anglaises pour "Goût & Volonté"