The precise origin of the phrase "long story short" is unknown, but it is believed to have originated in the 18th century. The phrase is thought to have come from the practice of storytelling, in which a storyteller would use the phrase to signal to the audience that they were about to abbreviate a lengthy tale. It is used to indicate that one is about to provide a shorter, more concise version of a longer story or explanation.

What is the origin of the idiom "long story short" and when to use it?

long story short

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The idiom "put out feelers" is used to describe the act of making informal inquiries or suggestions to test the reaction of others before taking any further action. It is often used in a cautious or tentative way, as the person putting out feelers is not sure how others will react. The phrase is typically used in situations where the speaker wants to avoid making a commitment or causing offense.

What is the origin of the idiom "put out feelers" and when to use it?

to [put] out feelers

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The idiom "the other side of the coin" is believed to have originated in the 17th century. It is thought to have come from the literal meaning of a coin, which has two sides. This expression came to be used to describe a different or contrasting perspective on an issue or situation.

What is the origin of the idiom "the other side of the coin" and when to use it?

the (other|flip|opposite) side of the coin

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The idiom "to coin a phrase" originated from the practice of creating new words or expressions, often for rhetorical effect or to convey a specific meaning. The term "coin" in this context refers to the act of inventing or creating something, just like a coin is minted. The phrase is commonly used to humorously acknowledge the use of a cliché, familiar expression, or a well-known saying in conversation or writing, often when the speaker is aware of the overuse or triteness of the expression.

What is the origin of the idiom "to coin a phrase" and when to use it?

to coin a phrase

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The idiom "hold the floor" originated from parliamentary proceedings, where a speaker is granted the right to address an assembly or group without interruption. In this context, holding the floor means maintaining the right to speak continuously. Beyond formal settings, the phrase is commonly used in everyday language to indicate that someone has control of the conversation or is the primary speaker, often commanding attention and preventing others from interrupting.

What is the origin of the idiom "hold the floor" and when to use it?

to [hold] the floor

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The idiom "or else" is believed to have originated from Middle English, evolving from the combination of the Old English words "ēr" (before) and "elles" (else). It is commonly used in English to introduce a consequence or alternative course of action that will occur if a specified condition is not met. This expression is used to suggest a possible outcome or consequence that might follow if circumstances were to change.

What is the origin of the idiom "or else" and when to use it?

or else

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The idiom "the other way around" originated from the concept of reversing or flipping a situation, order, or arrangement. It is often used to describe a scenario where the normal or expected sequence of events or elements is reversed or inverted. In everyday language, this phrase is employed to emphasize a contrast or to indicate that a particular situation or relationship is opposite to what might be assumed or anticipated.

What is the origin of the idiom "the other way around" and when to use it?

the other way around

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The idiom "give and take" has its roots in the idea of a reciprocal exchange, where both parties contribute and compromise to reach a mutually beneficial outcome. It denotes a balanced interaction characterized by the willingness of each side to make concessions or compromises for the sake of finding a harmonious resolution. The phrase is commonly used to describe situations where collaboration, negotiation, or cooperation is essential for reaching a consensus or making progress.

What is the origin of the idiom "give and take" and when to use it?

give and take

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The idiom "get a word in edgewise" originated from the notion of inserting a remark or comment into a conversation, even when it seems difficult due to the constant flow of talk from others. The phrase suggests that the speaker is managing to slip their words into the narrow spaces ("edgewise") between the ongoing conversation. It is often used to convey the challenge of contributing to a discussion when others are dominating the conversation with their words.

What is the origin of the idiom "get a word in edgewise" and when to use it?

to [get] a word in edgewise

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The idiom "hot potato" originated from the literal situation of a potato being hot and difficult to handle. It has evolved to describe any controversial, sensitive, or challenging issue or topic that is passed or transferred quickly from one person or group to another due to its complexity or potential for difficulty. The phrase is commonly used to emphasize the uncomfortable nature of dealing with a particular matter, often highlighting the desire of individuals or entities to avoid responsibility for it.

What is the origin of the idiom "hot potato" and when to use it?

hot potato

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The idiom "for the record" originated from the practice of officially documenting or recording information, particularly in legal or formal settings. It is commonly used to introduce a statement or piece of information that the speaker considers important, accurate, or significant, often in a formal or official context.

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

for the record

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The idiom "moot point" originated from Old English, where "moot" referred to a formal assembly or meeting. Over time, the term evolved to signify a hypothetical or debatable point that is subject to discussion or dispute but has no practical consequence or relevance to the current situation. In modern usage, a "moot point" is often used to describe an issue or argument that is rendered irrelevant or academic because it no longer holds practical importance or is no longer applicable to the present circumstances.

What is the origin of the idiom "moot point" and when to use it?

moot point

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The idiom "broaden one's horizons" originated from the idea of expanding one's field of vision or intellectual capacity. It suggests the act of gaining new knowledge, experiences, or perspectives that go beyond one's current understanding. The idiom is used to emphasize the value of embracing diversity, seeking out new ideas, and being open to different cultures, opinions, and concepts.

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

to [broaden|expand|widen] {one's} (horizons|mind)

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The idiom "tunnel vision" originated from the literal condition where a person's field of vision narrows down to a narrow, tunnel-like focus. It refers to a metaphorical state of narrow-mindedness or a limited perspective on a particular issue or situation. This expression is often used to highlights the need to broaden one's perspective and consider a broader range of information or possibilities.

What is the origin of the idiom "tunnel vision" and when to use it?

tunnel vision

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The precise origins of the idiom "in a bad light" are uncertain. However, it appears to have emerged during the 17th century, with usage examples from the 1600s. One possible origin is in the context of stage lighting, where a harsh or unflattering light could make an actor appear less appealing or credible. The idiom is more generally used to convey the idea that someone or something is portrayed in a negative or unfavorable way.

What is the origin of the idiom "in a bad light" and when to use it?

in a bad light

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The idiom "in a good light" is believed to have originated in the 17th century, likely inspired by the theatrical use of lighting to enhance or diminish the appearance of actors on stage. The phrase is used to suggest that someone or something is portrayed in a favorable or positive way.

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

in a good light

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The idiom "for my money" is a colloquial expression that originated from informal conversations and debates. It is used to convey one's personal opinion or preference, often implying that the speaker believes their viewpoint or choice is the best or most valuable. The phrase "for my money" is a way of emphasizing that the speaker is speaking from their own perspective or making a subjective judgment. It is commonly used in casual conversations, discussions, or reviews.

What is the origin of the idiom "for my money" and when to use it?

for my money

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The idiom "frame of mind" traces its origins to the late 17th century, with "frame" referring to the structure or framework of thought or perception. The word "mind" in this context signifies one's mental or emotional state. Over time, the expression has evolved to denote a particular mental or emotional condition that influences an individual's thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors. It is now commonly used to describe someone's mindset or perspective in a given situation.

What is the origin of the idiom "frame of mind" and when to use it?

frame of mind

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The idiom "in one's eyes" is thought to have originated in the 16th century. The earliest known written record of the phrase is in the 1535 play Gammer Gurton's Needle, by John Still. In the play, a character says, "In my eyes, he is a perfect man." This expression is used to describe how someone perceives or views something.

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

in {one's} eyes

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The idiom "read from the same page" originates from the world of literature and script-writing, where individuals involved in a performance or project need to be on the same page of the written material to ensure a coherent and synchronized execution. In a broader sense, it has come to signify a need for shared understanding or agreement within a group or partnership. This phrase is used to reflect the importance of everyone having access to the same information or perspective to avoid confusion or miscommunication.

What is the origin of the idiom "read from the same page" and when to use it?

to [read] from the same page

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The phrase "sing from the same hymn book" is an idiom that is believed to have originated in the 17th century, when hymns were a common form of religious music. When people sang from the same hymn book, it meant that they were all singing the same words, which was seen as a symbol of unity and agreement. This expression is used to describe a group of people who are in agreement, have the same opinion, or act in a coordinated fashion.

What is the origin of the idiom "sing from the same hymn book" and when to use it?

to [sing] from the same hymn book

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The idiom "in a nutshell" originates from an ancient anecdote attributed to the Greek philosopher Pliny the Elder, who lived in the first century AD. According to the story, Pliny the Elder claimed that the entire Iliad by Homer could fit into a nutshell, implying that a complex or lengthy narrative could be summarized concisely. This anecdote later evolved into the expression we use today to mean providing a brief and condensed summary of something.

What is the origin of the idiom "in a nutshell" and when to use it?

in a nutshell

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Explore English idioms regarding points of view with examples like "put out feelers" and "moot point".

Point de Vue

Expressions anglaises pour "Point de Vue"

Point of View

English Idioms for "Point of View"