The idiom "leave a sour taste in one's mouth" is a figurative expression originating from the physical sensation of tasting something unpleasant or bitter, which may linger and affect one's overall experience. In a metaphorical sense, it is used to signify a negative impression or experience that lingers in a person's memory, leaving them with discomfort or displeasure.

What is the origin of the idiom "leave a sour taste in one's mouth" and when to use it?

to [leave] a (sour|bad) taste in {one's} [mouth]

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The idiom "take something on the chin" originated in boxing, where taking a punch directly on the chin can be seen as a sign of resilience and courage. It has since evolved into a figurative expression used in various contexts to describe facing challenges or setbacks with bravery and fortitude.

What is the origin of the idiom "take something on the chin" and when to use it?

to [take] {sth} on the chin

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The idiom "take a toll on someone or something" originates from the concept of a toll booth, where travelers are required to pay a fee for using certain roads or bridges. In a figurative sense, it is used to suggests that various challenges, difficulties, or adverse circumstances can affect an individual's well-being, physical or mental health, or on the condition of an object, leading to negative effects or consequences.

What is the origin of the idiom "take a toll on someone or something" and when to use it?

to [take] a toll on {sb/sth}

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The idiom "do good" is rooted in the concept of performing actions that benefit others or society as a whole. It is used to signify acts of kindness, charity, or altruism that have a positive impact on individuals, communities, or the world. The origin of this idiom is not tied to a specific historical event but rather reflects the fundamental human desire to contribute positively to the well-being of others and make a difference in the world.

What is the origin of the idiom "do good" and when to use it?

to [do] good

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The idiom "turn one's head" originated from the literal action of physically turning one's head to look in a different direction. Over time, it developed a figurative meaning in English language usage. It is often used to convey the idea of being fascinated or mesmerized by someone or something, sometimes to the point of losing rational judgment or awareness of one's surroundings.

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

to [turn] {one's} head

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The idiom "have a part in something" is derived from the concept of participation or involvement in an event, activity, or decision. It is used to imply that an individual or group plays a role or contributes to a particular situation, project, or process. The origin of this idiom is not tied to a specific historical event, but rather reflects the natural development of language to express the idea of being an active participant or having a role in various activities.

What is the origin of the idiom "have a part in something" and when to use it?

to [have] a part (to play|) in {sth}

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The idiom "cut both ways" originates from the image of a double-edged sword, which has two sharp sides, capable of inflicting damage in both directions when used. This expression signifies that a particular situation, action, or decision has the potential to have positive and negative consequences, affecting different parties or aspects in various ways. It is used to highlight the duality of outcomes associated with certain actions or choices.

What is the origin of the idiom "cut both ways" and when to use it?

to [cut] both ways

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The idiom "bad apple" finds its origin in the concept of a single spoiled or decayed apple that can affect the entire batch of apples due to its contagious nature. In a metaphorical sense, it is used to refer to an individual or element within a group that displays negative behavior, poor character, or corruption, which has the potential to influence and disrupt the entire group or organization.

What is the origin of the idiom "bad apple" and when to use it?

(bad|rotten) apple

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The idiom "vicious circle" is used to refer to a self-perpetuating or self-reinforcing sequence of events or situations where one problem leads to another, and these issues continue to worsen each other in an unending loop. Its origin is related to the idea of a circle with harmful qualities, where each part of the circle reinforces the negative impact of the others.

What is the origin of the idiom "vicious circle" and when to use it?

vicious (circle|cycle)

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The idiom "have a horse in the race" originates from the world of horse racing. It is derived from the involvement of horse owners, trainers, and bettors who have a vested interest in a specific horse's performance in a race. In a broader sense, the idiom is used to signify having a personal interest, stake, or involvement in a particular situation or outcome.

What is the origin of the idiom "have a horse in the race" and when to use it?

to [have] a horse in (the|this|that) race

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The origin of the idiom "course through one's veins" or "course through one's blood" is based on the historical understanding of blood as a fundamental element of a person's makeup, closely tied to their characteristics, emotions, and temperament. It reflects the longstanding belief that one's family, culture, or personal traits are an inherent part of them, much like the way blood circulates through their veins. This idiom is now used to conveys the idea that a particular quality or attribute is a fundamental and unchanging aspect of an individual.

What is the origin of the idiom "course through one's veins" and when to use it?

to [course] through {one's} (veins|blood)

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The idiom "leave one's mark" originates from the concept of making a lasting impact or impression on something, someone, or a particular situation. The idea of leaving a mark can be traced back to the practice of marking or inscribing one's initials, signature, or symbol to indicate authorship or ownership. Over time, the expression has evolved to symbolize the broader concept of creating a significant and enduring influence, legacy, or memory in various contexts.

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

to [leave] {one's} mark

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The idiom "go hand in hand" is derived from the physical act of two people walking or moving together while holding each other's hands. This literal practice of walking hand in hand signifies unity, cooperation, and mutual support. The idiom extends this idea to describe situations where two elements or factors are closely connected and work together in a harmonious or complementary manner, often reinforcing each other's influence. Its origin lies in the universal gesture of physical connection and cooperation.

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

to [go|be] hand in hand

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The idiom "ripple effect" is originated from the way ripples expand outward when an object is dropped into water, creating a series of interconnected waves. It is used to signifies a sequence of consequences or impacts resulting from a single initial action or event.

What is the origin of the idiom "ripple effect" and when to use it?

ripple effect

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The idiom "strike a note" has its origins in music and is often associated with the act of playing a musical instrument, particularly striking the keys or strings to produce a specific musical sound. Over time, it has been adapted for broader usage to signify the act of making a significant or meaningful point, statement, or impression in various contexts.

What is the origin of the idiom "strike a note" and when to use it?

to [strike] a note

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The idiom "make inroads into something" has its origins in military language. "Inroads" originally referred to the invasion or penetration of enemy territory. Over time, the phrase evolved to represent efforts to gain progress, influence, or access in various fields.

What is the origin of the idiom "make inroads into something" and when to use it?

to [make] inroads (into|on) {sth}

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The idiom "cut no ice with someone" has its origin in the early 19th century. It likely comes from the idea that cutting or shaping ice was a physically demanding and arduous task. The expression evolved to describe situations where someone's arguments, actions, or words have little or no influence or impact on another person. It is used to suggest that the person is not able to make a significant impression or sway the opinions or decisions of the other party.

What is the origin of the idiom "cut no ice with someone" and when to use it?

to [cut] (no|little|much) ice with {sb}

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The idiom "exception that proves the rule" has its origin in legal terminology. In legal contexts, the word "prove" meant to test or examine, and a legal rule was considered to be established by its exceptions. The phrase evolved over time to represent a situation where a specific exception or unusual case reinforces the existence of a broader general rule.

What is the origin of the idiom "exception that proves the rule" and when to use it?

exception that proves the rule

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The idiom "a stroke of something" has its origin in the concept of using a brush or pen to create a single, swift stroke in art or writing. This expression is used to describe situations where something significant or fortunate happens suddenly and unexpectedly, as if achieved in one quick and masterful stroke.

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

a stroke of {sth}

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The idiom "do a job on someone or something" is thought to have started in the early 1900s from boxing. In boxing, when a fighter knocks their opponent off their feet and defeats them in a big way, it means they won easily and the other person did not expect it. This meaning of the phrase slowly changed and today, the idiom is commonly used in informal settings to mean that someone or something was defeated or damaged in a big way.

What is the origin of the idiom "do a job on someone or something" and when to use it?

to [do] a job on {sb/sth}

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The idiom "Break the spell" originates from folklore and mythology, symbolizing the act of dispelling enchantment or illusion. It metaphorically describes the moment when someone's infatuation or fascination is abruptly ended by a revelation or unexpected truth. The expression reflects the idea of breaking free from a state of enchantment or delusion, revealing reality. It is commonly used in contexts where someone's illusions are shattered, bringing clarity or understanding to a situation. Overall, "break the spell" captures the concept of dispelling illusions and facing reality.

What is the origin of the idiom "break the spell" and when to use it?

to [break] the spell

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The idiom "make history" originates from the concept of performing actions or achieving accomplishments that are significant enough to be recorded in historical accounts. The idea is that certain events or deeds are so noteworthy that they will be remembered and documented for future generations. Thus, it is used to describe an event, action, or achievement that is highly significant and will be remembered for its impact.

What is the origin of the idiom "make history" and when to use it?

to [make] history

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Discover how English idioms like "take a toll on" and "strike a note" relate to having an effect in English.

Modi di dire inglesi per "Avere un effetto"