The origin of the idiom "help a lame dog over a stile" likely draws on the image of a lame or injured dog needing assistance to cross a stile, which is a low barrier or step-like structure used to facilitate passage over fences or walls in rural areas. The phrase embodies the idea of providing aid and support to those who are physically or emotionally challenged, even when the task or favor may seem simple or insignificant. It conveys the importance of showing compassion and lending a helping hand to those in need, regardless of the perceived difficulty or impact of the assistance. It is typically used in informal conversations and is often used to emphasize the importance of offering assistance or support to those who are in need, regardless of the perceived scale or significance of the task.

What is the origin of the idiom "help a lame dog over a stile" and when to use it?

to [help] a lame dog over a stile

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The origin of the idiomatic expression "lend a hand" can be traced back to the literal act of physically assisting someone by extending a hand to offer support.  It has likely emerged from the universal understanding of reaching out and offering help to those in need. Over time, this idiom have become deeply ingrained in language and culture, emphasizing the importance of being helpful, supportive, and compassionate towards others.

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

to [lend|give] {sb} a (helping|) hand

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The idiom "cover for someone" likely originated from the concept of providing physical cover or protection, which gradually expanded to include the idea of assuming someone's responsibilities or offering support in their absence. The expression symbolizes the act of figuratively shielding or safeguarding someone, ensuring that their actions or absence are managed or concealed effectively. It is often used in work settings when colleagues or teammates provide support and take on tasks to ensure continuity when someone is absent or unable to fulfill their obligations.

What is the origin of the idiom "cover for someone" and when to use it?

to [cover] (up|) for {sb}

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The origin of the idiom "three cheers" can be traced back to traditional displays of support and celebration. It likely originated in historical contexts where crowds or groups would shout cheers to express their enthusiasm and admiration. The repetition of three cheers may have been chosen to emphasize the fervor and intensity of the support. It is often used in sports events, such as cheering for a winning team or celebrating exceptional performances.

What is the origin of the idiom "three cheers" and when to use it?

three cheers

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The origin of the idiom "play the bad guy" can be traced back to the concept of tough love and the idea that sometimes, in order to help someone grow or improve, it is necessary to adopt a role that challenges or pushes them beyond their comfort zone. The idiom draws on the idea that by assuming the role of the "bad guy," one takes on the responsibility of providing honest and sometimes harsh feedback, setting high standards, and refusing to go easy on the individual. It can be used in personal relationships, such as between friends, siblings, or mentors, where one individual assumes the role of providing honest feedback, tough love, or pushing the other beyond their comfort zone.

What is the origin of the idiom "play the bad guy" and when to use it?

to [play] the bad guy

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The origin of the idiom "make oneself useful" is rooted in the concept of actively contributing or being of assistance. It draws on the idea that individuals have the ability to purposefully engage in tasks or activities that serve a practical or beneficial purpose. The expression signifies the importance of taking initiative and seeking opportunities to be productive or helpful. It is commonly used in work or professional settings to motivate employees to take initiative, fulfill responsibilities, or find ways to be helpful to colleagues or superiors.

What is the origin of the idiom "make oneself useful" and when to use it?

to [make] {oneself} useful

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The origin of the idiom "be cruel to be kind" can be traced back to Shakespeare's play "Hamlet." In Act III, Scene IV, Hamlet tells his mother, Queen Gertrude, that he will be harsh and cruel in his words and actions in order to help her realize the error of her ways. Over time, this phrase became more widely used to express the concept of employing tough love or harsh measures for the ultimate benefit or well-being of an individual. It is often used in relationships, such as between friends, family members, or mentors, where individuals may need to confront difficult truths, offer blunt advice, or enforce boundaries for the long-term benefit of the other person.

What is the origin of the idiom "be cruel to be kind" and when to use it?

to [be] cruel to be kind

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The origin of the idiom "ride in on a white horse" can be traced back to medieval legends and folklore, where the image of a knight on a white horse symbolized heroism, chivalry, and rescue. In medieval literature and tales of romance, knights would often ride on white horses to save damsels in distress or to defend the weak and oppressed. It is often used in discussions about unexpected acts of heroism, particularly in challenging or dire situations.

What is the origin of the idiom "ride in on a white horse" and when to use it?

to [ride] in on a white horse

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The origin of the idiom "in good hands" cannot be attributed to a specific historical or literary source. Instead, it has evolved as a common phrase in the English language, stemming from the metaphorical association of hands with care, protection, and competence. The expression likely emerged organically over time, drawing on the notion that entrusting someone or something to capable hands ensures their well-being or successful management. It is commonly employed when discussing entrusting someone or something to capable individuals or organizations.

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

in (good|safe) hands

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The origin of the idiom "be there for someone" is rooted in the fundamental human need for support and connection. The phrase has evolved naturally over time as a way to express the concept of being present and available for others in times of distress or difficulty. The notion of being there for someone traces back to the inherent empathy and compassion found within human relationships. It reflects the understanding that providing emotional support, assistance, and a listening ear can offer solace and comfort to individuals facing challenges. While the exact origin of the idiom cannot be pinpointed to a specific source, its usage and significance have developed through the universal experiences of human interaction and the innate desire to offer care and support to those we care about. It is commonly used in situations involving emotional support, such as during times of grief, heartbreak, or personal struggles.

What is the origin of the idiom "be there for someone" and when to use it?

to [be] there for {sb}

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The idiom "have one's interests at heart" has evolved naturally over time as a way to express the concept of genuine care and concern for someone's well-being or desires. The phrase reflects the inherent human tendency to prioritize the interests and happiness of those we value or have a close relationship with. Its origin lies in the intrinsic qualities of empathy, compassion, and trust that have been integral to human interactions throughout history. Over time, the idiom has become ingrained in everyday language, representing the idea of selflessness and genuine intentions towards another person's best interests.

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

to [have] {one's} (best|) interests at heart

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The origin of the idiom "good turn" is rooted in the universal human inclination towards kindness and helping others, which has been present in human societies across cultures throughout history. The phrase reflects the innate understanding that performing acts of goodwill and assistance can have a positive impact on individuals and communities. Its origin lies in the fundamental values of empathy, compassion, and the recognition that extending a helping hand without expecting anything in return is a virtuous act. It is commonly employed to acknowledge and appreciate acts of generosity, helpfulness, or selflessness.

What is the origin of the idiom "good turn" and when to use it?

good turn

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The origin of the idiom "pep talk" can be traced back to the early 20th century, specifically within the realm of sports. The term "pep" refers to energy, enthusiasm, or vigor, and a "talk" denotes a conversation or speech. The phrase emerged as a way to describe the motivational speeches and discussions given to athletes before or during games to ignite their spirit, boost their morale, and enhance their performance. Coaches, trainers, or team leaders would deliver these talks to inspire and encourage players to give their best effort, overcome challenges, and maintain a positive mindset.  It is commonly used in sports settings, including team sports, individual competitions, or athletic training, to rally athletes before a game, during halftime, or in moments of low morale.

What is the origin of the idiom "pep talk" and when to use it?

pep talk

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The origin of the idiom "on one's knees" can be traced back to historical and cultural practices where kneeling was a symbolic gesture of submission, reverence, or supplication. Throughout history, kneeling has been associated with showing respect, obedience, and humility towards higher authorities or deities. The act of physically being on one's knees conveyed a sense of surrender, acknowledging one's subservient position, and expressing a deep level of deference. It is commonly used to describe situations where individuals find themselves in a state of extreme desperation, humility, or supplication.

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

on {one's} knees

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The idiom "a port in a storm" draws its origins from the world of maritime navigation, particularly the experiences of sailors and seafarers. In the context of sailing, finding a secure and sheltered port during a storm is essential to ensure the safety of the ship and its crew. The phrase evolved to describe any place or person that offers refuge or assistance during difficult or trying times, just as a port offers protection to ships during turbulent weather at sea. It is commonly employed in personal relationships to describe a reliable friend, family member, or support system that provides comfort and help during times of distress.

What is the origin of the idiom "make a go of something" and when to use it?

a port in a storm

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to [lie] before {sb}

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The origin of the idiom "pull the fat from the fire" can be traced back to medieval cooking practices. In those times, cooking was often done over an open flame, and as meat cooked, the fat would drip into the fire, causing flare-ups and potentially dangerous situations. To prevent these flare-ups, cooks had to be vigilant and skilled, and they would use long forks or hooks to "pull" the pieces of fat away from the fire. It is often used in both casual and formal conversations, as well as in written communication, to praise individuals who have displayed resourcefulness, courage, or skill in resolving urgent and potentially dire situations.

to [pull] the fat from the fire

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Explore English idioms regarding aid and assistance with examples like "a port in a storm" and "pull the fat from the fire".

Idiomes anglais pour "Aide et Assistance"