The idiom "burn something to a crisp" has its origin in the destructive and transformative power of fire. The phrase is used to suggest that something has been burned completely, leaving it charred, blackened, and reduced to ashes or cinders. It conveys the idea of intense heat and destruction. The use of "crisp" or "cinder" emphasizes the thoroughness and completeness of the burning process. Here are five example sentences using the idiom:

What is the origin of the idiom "burn something to a crisp" and when to use it?

to [burn] {sth} to a (crisp|cinder)

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The idiom "eat like a horse" has its origin in the behavior and appetite of horses and pigs. Horses are known for their large size, strength, and constant need for sustenance, while pigs are notorious for their voracious appetite and ability to consume large amounts of food. The idiom is used figuratively to describe someone who eats excessively or has a hearty appetite, emphasizing their seemingly insatiable hunger or the quantity of food they consume.

What is the origin of the idiom "eat like a horse" and when to use it?

to [eat] like a (horse|pig)

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The idiom "eat somebody out of house and home" originated from the idea of someone consuming so much food that it depletes the available resources in a household. The phrase implies that the person's appetite is so insatiable or their eating habits are so excessive that they consume all the food supplies, leaving the household with nothing else to eat. It emphasizes the idea of overwhelming hunger or the ability to consume large quantities of food. Here are five example sentences using the idiom:

What is the origin of the idiom "eat somebody out of house and home"" and when to use it?

to [eat] {sb} out of house and home

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The idiom "feed one's face" has its origin in the literal act of eating, specifically referring to the action of bringing food to one's mouth. The phrase emphasizes the physical act of nourishing oneself by consuming food. It is often used in a light-hearted or informal context, emphasizing the physical act of eating rather than the specific food being consumed.

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

to [feed] {one's} face

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The idiom "make a pig of oneself" originates from the behavior and characteristics associated with pigs, particularly their reputation for being gluttonous and voracious eaters. The phrase figuratively implies eating too much or overeating, often beyond what is considered normal or appropriate. It conveys the idea of excessive consumption, akin to the behavior of a pig at a feeding trough.

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

to [make] a pig of {oneself}

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The idiom "put the feedbag on" originates from the practice of feeding horses and other livestock by placing a bag or sack filled with feed over their heads. The bag is secured around the animal's neck, allowing them to eat while being restrained or controlled. It can be used humorously or informally to describe the act of beginning a meal or indulging in food.

What is the origin of the idiom "put the feedbag on" and when to use it?

to [put] the (old|) feedbag on

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The idiom "eat one's fill" likely originates from the idea that when a person eats or drinks until they are full or satiated, they have "filled" themselves with nourishment. It is used to convey the idea of indulgence and the satisfaction of one's appetite or thirst.

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

to [eat|drink] (to|) {one's} fill

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The idiom "eat like a bird" originated from the misconception that birds eat very small quantities of food, given their size. This phrase is often used to describe individuals who have very small appetites or who consume minimal portions of food during meals. In reality, many birds eat a significant amount of food relative to their body weight, but the idiom has persisted in popular language to describe people who eat sparingly.

What is the origin of the idiom "eat like a bird" and when to use it?

to [eat] like a bird

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The idiom "reach one's nostrils" is derived from the literal function of the nostrils as the openings in the nose through which we breathe and detect smells. The phrase is used figuratively to describe the act of perceiving or sensing something, often with a negative connotation.

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

to [reach] {one's} nostrils

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The exact origin of the idiom "grab a bite" is somewhat challenging to trace, as it likely emerged informally in everyday language. However, it stems from the inherent meaning of the individual words. "Grab" suggests a quick and informal action, while "a bite" refers to a small serving of food. It  is used to describe the act of having a quick, often informal meal or snack, especially when time is limited, and formality is not necessary.

What is the origin of the idiom "grab a bite" and when to use it?

to [grab] a bite (to eat|)

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The idiom "cast-iron stomach" originates from the idea that someone's stomach is exceptionally strong and resilient, similar to cast iron, which is known for its durability and ability to withstand high heat. This phrase is used to describe a person who can consume or digest a wide range of foods without getting sick or experiencing digestive issues.

What is the origin of the idiom "cast-iron stomach" and when to use it?

cast-iron stomach

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The origin of the idiom "square meal" can be traced back to the maritime and nautical culture of the 18th and 19th centuries. Sailors and seafarers often ate their meals off square wooden plates, which were sturdy and did not easily tip over in rough seas. These meals were substantial and balanced, typically consisting of a hearty portion of meat or protein, vegetables, and bread, providing the sailors with the nourishment they needed for their demanding work. Over time, "square meal" came to represent a well-balanced and satisfying meal.

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

square meal

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The origin of the idiom "get a taste for something" can be traced to the literal sense of taste and how it relates to acquiring a liking or preference for a particular flavor or type of food. It is used to describe the process of developing a liking for a specific type of cuisine or dish after trying it.

What is the origin of the idiom "get a taste for something" and when to use it?

to [get] a taste for {sth}

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The origin of the idiom "cup of joe" is believed to date back to the early 20th century, possibly during World War I or World War II. It's thought to be a reference to coffee, with "joe" being a common nickname for an average or generic person, similar to "John Doe." The use of "joe" in this context might have been a way to emphasize the ubiquity and everyday nature of coffee, which is a popular and essential beverage. Over time, the term "cup of joe" became a colloquial expression for an actual cup of coffee.

What is the origin of the idiom "cup of joe" and when to use it?

cup of joe

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to [sit] (well|right) with {sb/sth}

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Master English idioms regarding food and hunger, like "get a taste for" and "eat like a horse".

Idiomes anglais pour "Nourriture & Faim"