The origin of the idiom "behind one's back" is not attributed to a specific historical event or source but rather emerges from the metaphorical association of a person's back with their unawareness or lack of visibility. The phrase draws upon the idea that when someone's back is turned or facing away, they cannot see what is happening behind them. It is commonly used when discussing interpersonal relationships, workplace dynamics, or social interactions.

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

behind {one's} back

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=YmVoaW5kIG9uZSdzIGJhY2s&hash=0940809c3c6d63dadf15d2a9d3977f6ebc848434&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

to [hit] it off

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gaGl0IGl0IG9mZg&hash=2ce2d9257f5445688adddcfd8518e6b40400a709&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The idiom "on the same wavelength" originated from radio communication technology. In radio, different stations transmit signals at specific frequencies or wavelengths. When two or more stations are tuned to the same frequency, they can receive and understand each other's signals clearly. This concept was metaphorically adapted to human communication and is now used to suggest a shared understanding or agreement between individuals.

What is the origin of the idiom "on the same wavelength" and when to use it?

on the same wavelength

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=b24gdGhlIHNhbWUgd2F2ZWxlbmd0aA&hash=15005b4eea7ac99cfbfd819dc3ff4cc068b00ab4&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

to [keep] track of {sb/sth}

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8ga2VlcCB0cmFjayBvZiBzb21lYm9keSBvciBzb21ldGhpbmc&hash=4d0cff32d3c07434883b64024bac96db60449c8a&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

to friend

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gZnJpZW5k&hash=05970054773dfed490ab518406b04486a5db8046&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

to [be|get|stay] in touch

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gYmUgaW4gdG91Y2g&hash=87ad32814d9c82c0d1b52b088d6a9ac471462ad4&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

to run into

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gcnVuIGludG8&hash=f9af9f7bd2aa459159d55ddd43017e288cc3246e&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

to drop

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gZHJvcA&hash=8519998f43ccacfa46eded0eec60e62e51cea73b&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

to bond

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gYm9uZA&hash=ab7646d696f9d36e517667d790afe0818bfe0eac&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

acquainted

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=YWNxdWFpbnRlZA&hash=9e851b59cf58949ab06d8261e6ca54d8bb3c8a22&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

to strike up

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gc3RyaWtlIHVw&hash=c140793422cd60b8bcba21d084d43f1a55c89516&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

inseparable

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=aW5zZXBhcmFibGU&hash=67024f130b848cd6278f74592b6bf2ee56965e45&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

to [keep] going

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8ga2VlcCBnb2luZw&hash=409d94c338c3fb1b00b953eb5244d98a02d59871&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

to drift apart

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gZHJpZnQgYXBhcnQ&hash=31f6787c61d41b943b02205032fd94d49651c165&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

to fall out

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gZmFsbCBvdXQ&hash=5bfaa846b79958addb53e0ddcbb9a274eb9a7e7b&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

to wreck

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gd3JlY2s&hash=60d1150a026b3749b100ba8caabfc68a80506ab4&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

to spring-clean

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gc3ByaW5nLWNsZWFu&hash=67ff3cb2697581f4c0977c7f24b605bcfa04ec7a&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

feeling

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=ZmVlbGluZw&hash=ae87543d2a4d43abb32437831866205a149b16a0&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

to aggrieve

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gYWdncmlldmU&hash=d4c549e7132d66f07f5b3f5281ca23d69375e55b&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

baffled

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=YmFmZmxlZA&hash=a790dbe7fae259943b866687ea19bc89588ef6cc&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

devastated

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=ZGV2YXN0YXRlZA&hash=ece3f081a0834db52e935db44183466efaec71e0&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

ecstatic

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=ZWNzdGF0aWM&hash=abae7436dd54409c5a49d1795c9154608a0c137d&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

elated

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=ZWxhdGVk&hash=97a7d3760f98f595bb36b900df12a6789b576169&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

gobsmacked

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=Z29ic21hY2tlZA&hash=e06c9408ef876c7c2368dcc2eb38010a735e838d&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

gutted

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=Z3V0dGVk&hash=247e2b497e274437c4f93905356ae530695d0ccb&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

honored

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=aG9ub3JlZA&hash=0f2b606fdfaf3bc9d0eeacfc686c811cdd1f73a9&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

impervious

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=aW1wZXJ2aW91cw&hash=6afe5040f44bf09e32802c9707c69a6a05331273&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

outraged

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=b3V0cmFnZWQ&hash=ad2484288c4c34aba29b9625c42324712a74f720&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

perplexed

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=cGVycGxleGVk&hash=f18c60e1a3945f7e3fd106217819fdf30a24eb07&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

perturbed

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=cGVydHVyYmVk&hash=bb87b4c4e87e0c9ec30a00eb1cc6308381a0f637&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

privileged

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=cHJpdmlsZWdlZA&hash=45fa08dc0e8720b07483411d5d57ea1eb409aa14&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

stunned

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=c3R1bm5lZA&hash=c3781fe024f51da996a00e6abc833b9b3270ee32&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

troubled

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dHJvdWJsZWQ&hash=f1f827d7a89e5da83b4d5819dc6a934ef20ea8de&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

unconcerned

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dW5jb25jZXJuZWQ&hash=e16a4ab7c54c79bfc79d290b1e358c25443d5e03&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

relationship

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=cmVsYXRpb25zaGlw&hash=4988adcc30521aae60fad81474c03484f92e632c&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The origin of the idiom "go back a long way" is rooted in the literal sense of physical distance and time. The idea of going back in time or retracing one's steps has long been associated with the concept of history and personal relationships. The phrase can also be used to emphasize the historical context of a particular event, institution, or tradition

What is the origin of the idiom "go back a long way" and when to use it?

to [go] back a long way

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gZ28gYmFjayBhIGxvbmcgd2F5&hash=c59df1a71301d69d3c28048c55a4d0e63c183632&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The idiom "ups and downs" draws its origin from the imagery of a graph or chart, where the "ups" represent high points or positive moments, and the "downs" correspond to low points or challenges. This expression has been in use for centuries, reflecting the cyclical and fluctuating nature of life, It is mostly used to emphasize the need to navigate and adapt to various circumstances.

What is the origin of the idiom "ups and downs" and when to use it?

ups and downs

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dXBzIGFuZCBkb3ducw&hash=a1055bbe4943fbb895b13843e79fab45c19d7155&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The idiom "know someone or something inside out" suggests an in-depth understanding or familiarity with a person, object, or subject. It implies knowing every detail, characteristic, or aspect thoroughly, as if one has explored its inner workings. This expression is used to emphasize a high level of knowledge, expertise, or familiarity with someone or something. It signifies that the individual has a comprehensive understanding, leaving no hidden aspects or mysteries.

What is the origin of the idiom "know someone or something inside out" and when to use it?

to [know] {sb/sth} inside out

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8ga25vdyBzb21lYm9keSBvciBzb21ldGhpbmcgaW5zaWRlIG91dA&hash=7100f79ecdc1a16971a3f8ea245d9cdfc2baa0f6&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The origin of the idiom "like a house on fire" is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States, possibly in the early 20th century. The phrase is mainly used to describe a relationship, interaction, or activity that is happening quickly, enthusiastically, or with great intensity. In other words, it suggests a sense of rapid and positive progress, often used to emphasize the speed and enthusiasm with which something is happening or developing.

What is the origin of the idiom "like a house on fire" and when to use it?

like a house on fire

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=bGlrZSBhIGhvdXNlIG9uIGZpcmU&hash=6cff4fb4717326f5c5354af729d3a5d138e56e08&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The idiom "see eye to eye" originated from the visual metaphor of two people looking directly into each other's eyes, suggesting a shared perspective or agreement. This idiomatic expression is used to emphasize finding common ground or having a mutual understanding with someone.

What is the origin of the idiom "see eye to eye" and when to use it?

to [see] eye to eye

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gc2VlIGV5ZSB0byBleWU&hash=32390aa28e4830cb2a76fada1fbee68095f52503&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

to stick together

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gc3RpY2sgdG9nZXRoZXI&hash=ed1a884d82cbd6dbe0d0d5febf59f2a5ba375a85&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The origin of this phrase can be traced back to the 14th century in England, where "thick" referred to dense woods or forests and "thin" referred to open or sparse land. In this context, traveling "through thick and thin" meant to navigate through the densely wooded areas as well as the more open terrain. Over time, the phrase evolved to refer to the ups and downs of life and the loyalty required to support each other through all circumstances. It has become a common expression used to describe the unwavering support and commitment in relationships, friendships, and other important connections.

What is the origin of the idiom "through thick and thin" and when to use it?

through thick and thin

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dGhyb3VnaCB0aGljayBhbmQgdGhpbg&hash=9e36788fc445cd9615b76e1312e51256231fc490&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The origin of the idiom "different as chalk and cheese" dates back to the notable contrast between two distinct substances: chalk and cheese. Chalk is a soft, white, powdery substance, while cheese is a solid, often yellow or orange, food product. The phrase is used figuratively to expresses a difference or dissimilarity between two things, emphasizing their contrasting nature.

What is the origin of the idiom "different as chalk and cheese" and when to use it?

(as|) different as chalk and cheese

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=YXMgZGlmZmVyZW50IGFzIGNoYWxrIGFuZCBjaGVlc2U&hash=0075549fbd122a29647a6527e4e60614dc459fdc&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

soft spot

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=c29mdCBzcG90&hash=4e146bd84de4501adccb3a23f1ed876790b420dd&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

Its origin is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the early 20th century. Some suggest that it may have come from the world of dance, where a partner may "sweep someone off their feet" during a particularly graceful and impressive dance move. Others suggest that it may be related to the traditional practice of carrying a bride over the threshold of a new home, which could also be seen as "sweeping her off her feet". Regardless of its origins, the phrase remains popular in modern usage and continues to be used to describe moments of intense attraction or admiration.

What is the origin of the idiom "sweep someone off one's feet" and when to use it?

to [sweep] {sb} off {one's} feet

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gc3dlZXAgc29tZWJvZHkgb2ZmIG9uZSdzIGZlZXQ&hash=ce7f7713c2dd17ee7421ff0e6e537cb5acac6af3&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The idiom "head over heels" originated in the late 18th century and has its roots in the earlier phrase "heels over head." The idiom means to be in a state of extreme excitement, confusion, or intense emotion. It is now used figuratively to describe a person experiencing a complete overturning or turning upside down, as if their head is positioned below their heels. Over time, the phrase shifted to "head over heels" to convey a sense of being completely absorbed or immersed in a particular state or situation.

What is the origin of the idiom "head over heels" and when to use it?

head over heels

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=aGVhZCBvdmVyIGhlZWxz&hash=df135b9745a9a9ae30066ff0204620ba31030a02&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The origin of the idiom "on the rocks" is uncertain, but it may have originated from the idea of a ship running aground on rocks, which can cause significant damage and lead to the sinking of the vessel. Over time, the phrase has come to be used more generally to describe any situation where something is in trouble or facing difficulties, whether it be a personal relationship, a business venture, or any other situation where stability or success is threatened.

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

on the rocks

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=b24gdGhlIHJvY2tz&hash=9e9d5c69a0e4dbbc1f310baa8b8400f46e68fc3d&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The phrase "break one's heart" originated in Old English and Middle English literature, gaining popularity during the Renaissance era. It is commonly employed when discussing the end of a romantic relationship, such as a devastating breakup or divorce, where one's heart is metaphorically shattered by the loss of love and companionship. The phrase is also used to depict the anguish and sorrow experienced after the loss of a loved one, evoking the deep emotional impact and grief.

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

to [break] {one's} heart

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gYnJlYWsgb25lJ3MgaGVhcnQ&hash=1da5aa128fd9d06ddd59b7421a794801193e7535&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

to patch up

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gcGF0Y2ggdXA&hash=c32c29029a4c0089618001e6aec1c777d0064fcb&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The exact origin of the phrase "tie the knot" is uncertain but it is believed to have originated from the imagery of tying a knot to represent the joining together of two individuals in marriage. Metaphorically, the act of tying a knot is often associated with making a secure and unbreakable bond or commitment. This notion is applied to the context of marriage, symbolizing the union and lifelong commitment between two people. This phrase is commonly used to refer to the act of marriage.

What is the origin of the idiom "tie the knot" and when to use it?

to [tie] the knot

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gdGllIHRoZSBrbm90&hash=b689d1c2d505f60e17fa2077bed09cf0cc54136f&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

Here you will find the vocabulary from Unit 3 - 3A in the Solutions Advanced coursebook, such as "aggrieve", "gobsmacked", "strike up", etc.

Solutions Avancées "Unité 3 - 3A" Vocabulaire