The idiom "use a sledgehammer to crack a nut" has its roots in the world of construction tools. It describes a situation where someone employs a sledgehammer, a heavy and powerful tool, to perform a task that could be accomplished with a much lighter and simpler tool, like a small hammer. This idiom is used figuratively to criticize actions that are excessively forceful, extravagant, or complicated for a relatively simple problem or task.

What is the origin of the idiom "use a sledgehammer to crack a nut" and when to use it?

to [let] sleeping dogs lie

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to [run] with the hare and [hunt] with the hounds

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The idiom "save the day" is a commonly used expression in English without a specific historical origin. It is used to describe a situation where someone successfully rescues or resolves a problematic or challenging scenario, often at the last minute, preventing potential disaster or failure. This idiom emphasizes the idea of a timely intervention or act of heroism to ensure a positive outcome.

What is the origin of the idiom "save the day" and when to use it?

to [save] the (day|situation)

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The idiom "there is a method to one's madness" has been in use for centuries, and it suggests that even when someone's actions seem strange or irrational, there is often a hidden or logical reason behind their behavior. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to acknowledge that there might be hidden reasons behind seemingly chaotic actions.

What is the origin of the idiom "there is a method to one's madness" and when to use it?

there is a method to {one's} madness

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The idiom "treat someone or something with kid gloves" has its origins in the 19th century when gloves made from the soft leather of young goats (kid leather) were considered delicate and luxurious. These gloves required careful handling to prevent damage. It is often used when addressing situations where extra caution is needed, such as dealing with sensitive individuals or delicate matters.

What is the origin of the idiom "treat someone or something with kid gloves" and when to use it?

to [treat|handle] {sb/sth} with kid gloves

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The idiom "play one's cards right" is derived from the world of card games, where players must make strategic decisions about which cards to use at the right time to achieve the best outcome. This idiomatic expression is often used to emphasize the importance of being tactful, cautious, and skillful in handling a situation.

What is the origin of the idiom "play one's cards right" and when to use it?

to [play] {one's} cards right

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The idiom "know better" is rooted in the idea that individuals should possess the wisdom or experience to make more informed and thought-out decisions. This expression is commonly used to indicate that a person should have the knowledge or experience to make wiser and more informed choices in a given situation.

What is the origin of the idiom "know better" and when to use it?

to [know] better

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The idiom "make the best of a bad bargain" means to try to optimize or improve a situation that is not ideal or to make the most out of something that is less than desirable. This expression suggests finding a silver lining or extracting some benefit from a less-than-favorable circumstance.

What is the origin of the idiom "make the best of a bad bargain" and when to use it?

to [make] the best of a bad bargain

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The idiom "err on the right side" has its origins in the principle of favoring a mistake that errs on the side of caution or moral rectitude. This idiomatic expression reflects a longstanding belief that when faced with uncertainty, it is wiser to make a choice that aligns with prudence and ethics. This idiomatic expression is used to encourage people to choose the path that minimizes harm or wrongdoing, even if it means making an error in judgment or taking extra precautions.

What is the origin of the idiom "err on the right side" and when to use it?

to [err] on the right side

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The idiom "not bid the devil good morrow until someone meet him" is an old English expression that cautions against assuming danger or misfortune until it actually occurs. The phrase is rooted in superstition and the belief that mentioning or acknowledging something negative, like the devil, before encountering it may invite bad luck or misfortune. This idiom is used as a reminder to remain cautious and not to tempt fate by talking about potential problems prematurely.

What is the origin of the idiom "not bid the devil good morrow until someone meet him" and when to use it?

to {not} [bid] the devil good morrow (until|till) {sb} (actually|) [meet] (with|) him

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The idiom "go through channels" originates from military and bureaucratic settings, where it means to follow the established hierarchical or procedural steps to address an issue or obtain permission. It emphasizes the importance of adhering to proper channels and protocols in order to achieve a specific goal or resolve a problem. This phrase is often used to emphasize the need for formal, authorized processes rather than taking a more direct or informal approach.

What is the origin of the idiom "go through channels" and when to use it?

to [go] through channels

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Master English idioms regarding tact, like "let sleeping dogs lie" and "go through channels".

Expressions anglaises pour la "Tact"