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(as) clean as a (new) pin
2-
(as) clean as a whistle
3-
in apple-pie order
4-
all over the place
5-
to give something a once-over
6-
(as) nice as ninepence
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out of place
8-
dog's breakfast
9-
head over heels
10-
(as) fresh as a daisy
(as) clean as a (new) pin
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/æz klˈiːn æz ɐ nˈuː pˈɪn/
PhraseIdiomInformal

kept in a very clean condition

synonymclean as a whistle
What is the origin of the idiom "clean as a pin" and when to use it?

The idiom "clean as a pin" originated from the concept of cleanliness and tidiness. It refers to something that is immaculately clean, neat, or well-organized, similar to the appearance of a perfectly maintained pin. The phrase is now used to signify a high level of cleanliness or orderliness and is often used to describe a space, object, or person that is free from dirt, clutter, or any signs of mess or disarray.

(as) clean as a whistle
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/æz klˈiːn æz ɐ wˈɪsəl/
PhraseIdiomInformal

completely unstained and free from dirt, thus extremely clean and tidy

synonymclean as a pin
example
Exemple
click on words
The company's financial records were audited and found to be clean as a whistle, indicating transparency and adherence to regulations.
He took great pride in his grooming and appearance, always ensuring he looked clean as a whistle before leaving the house.
After the thorough scrubbing, the kitchen was clean as a whistle, with every surface shining and devoid of any grease or stains.
What is the origin of the idiom "clean as a whistle" and when to use it?

The idiom "clean as a whistle" originated from the association of whistles with purity and cleanliness. It refers to something that is completely clean, free from any dirt, stains, or impurities. The phrase is mainly used to emphasize the idea of pristine cleanliness, often used to describe a person, object, or situation that is immaculate and without any blemish or wrongdoing.

in apple-pie order
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/ɪn ˈæpəlpˈaɪ ˈɔːɹdɚ/
PhraseIdiomInformal

with perfect organization and arrangement

What is the origin of the idiom "in apple-pie order" and when to use it?

The idiom "in apple-pie order" originated in the 18th century, and the exact origin is uncertain. It is believed to have originated from the phrase "apple-pie order," which referred to a state of perfect orderliness or neatness. The term "apple-pie" is derived from the French word "nappe," which means a tablecloth, suggesting that the phrase may have initially been used to describe a well-arranged table setting. Over time, the expression "in apple-pie order" came to represent anything that is meticulously organized, tidy, or arranged in an orderly manner.

all over the place
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/ˈɔːl ˌoʊvɚ ðə plˈeɪs/
PhraseIdiomInformal

in a disorganized and untidy way

What is the origin of the idiom "all over the place" and when to use it?

The idiom "all over the place" originated as a colloquial expression to describe something that lacks coherence, consistency, or organization. It is believed to have originated in the early 20th century and is derived from the notion of physical movement or spatial dispersion. The phrase "all over the place" figuratively conveys the idea of something being scattered, disorganized, or lacking focus, often used to describe thoughts, actions, or situations that lack a clear or cohesive direction.

to give something a once-over
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/ɡˈɪv ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ ɐ ðə wˈʌnsˈoʊvɚ/
PhraseIdiomInformal

to rid something of dirt in a rapid manner

What is the origin of the idiom "give something a once-over" and when to use it?

The idiom "give something a once-over" originated in the early 20th century and is derived from the act of quickly inspecting or examining something. The phrase suggests a cursory or superficial inspection, often with the intention of removing dirt, dust, or other surface-level impurities. It is mainly used to convey the idea of a brief and rapid assessment to ensure cleanliness or tidiness without delving into a thorough or detailed examination.

(as) nice as ninepence
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/æz nˈaɪs æz nˈaɪnpəns/
PhraseIdiomInformal

used to refer to someone or something that is very tidy and poperly arranged

What is the origin of the idiom "nice as ninepence" and when to use it?

The idiom "nice as ninepence" originated in the 19th century and is derived from the British currency system. It refers to something that is exceptionally neat, tidy, or well-presented. This idiomatic expression is used to suggest a high degree of orderliness and meticulousness, often used to describe a person, place, or object that appears impeccably groomed or well-organized.

out of place
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/ˌaʊɾəv plˈeɪs/
PhraseIdiomInformal

(of something) not positioned in its usual place

synonyminapposite
What is the origin of the idiom "out of place" and when to use it?

The idiom "out of place" originates from the literal perception of something being in an inappropriate or unsuitable location or context. The phrase conveys a sense of incongruity or mismatch, suggesting that an object, person, or situation does not belong or fit naturally within a particular setting or arrangement. It implies a lack of harmony, order, or appropriateness, often used to describe something that feels odd, out of the ordinary, or out of its intended position.

dog's breakfast
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/dˈɑːɡz bɹˈɛkfəst dˈɪnɚ/
PhraseDisapprovingIdiom

a person or thing that is marked by untidiness

What is the origin of the idiom "dog's breakfast" and when to use it?

The idiom "dog's breakfast" or "dog's dinner" originated in British English in the early 20th century and is used to describe a person or thing that is marked by untidiness or a lack of order. The phrase draws on the idea that a dog's meal, typically consisting of leftover scraps, can be messy and disorganized. Figuratively, it is used to imply a similar state of disorder or untidiness in a broader context.

head over heels
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/hˈɛd ˌoʊvɚ hˈiːlz/
PhraseIdiomInformal

in a state of extreme excitement or confusion

synonymheels over head
synonymin great confusion
synonymtopsy-turvily
synonymtopsy-turvy
What is the origin of the idiom "head over heels" and when to use it?

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.

(as) fresh as a daisy
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/æz fɹˈɛʃ æz ɐ dˈeɪzi/
PhraseIdiomInformal

used to refer to something that has been kept in a very clean and tidy state

example
Exemple
click on words
After a good night's sleep, she woke up feeling as fresh as a daisy.
The laundry was done and put away, leaving the wardrobe fresh as a daisy with neatly folded clothes.
The chef presented the dish with pristine plating, making it look as fresh as a daisy.
What is the origin of the idiom "fresh as a daisy" and when to use it?

The idiom "fresh as a daisy" originated in the 19th century and is used to describe something that has been kept in a very clean and tidy state. The phrase draws upon the image of a daisy, a flower known for its delicate beauty and freshness, to convey the idea of cleanliness and pristine condition. It is often used to describe a person, object, or place that appears immaculate, well-groomed, or well-maintained.

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