bananas

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The idiom "second banana" is thought to have originated in the vaudeville era of the early 20th century. In vaudeville, the "top banana" was the lead comedian, while the "second banana" was the supporting comedian, often playing the role of the straight man. The phrase is now used more broadly to mean a person who is in a secondary or supporting role, especially to a more important or powerful person.

What is the origin of the idiom "second banana" and when to use it?

second banana

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top banana

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The origin of the idiom "not know beans about something" can be traced back to early 20th-century American slang. "Beans" in this context is used metaphorically to represent knowledge or expertise, with "not knowing beans" indicating a lack of understanding or familiarity with a particular subject or topic. This idiom is typically used to convey a person's ignorance or incompetence in a specific area.

What is the origin of the idiom "not know beans about something" and when to use it?

to {not} [know] beans about {sth}

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cabbage

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The idiom "dangle a carrot in front of someone" is believed to have originated in the 16th century. The first known written record of the phrase is in a book called "Proverbs in English" by John Heywood, which was published in 1546. This expression is still commonly used in a negative way to describe someone who is being manipulated or motivated to do something that they may not want to do.

What is the origin of the idiom "dangle a carrot in front of someone" and when to use it?

to [dangle] a carrot in front of {sb}

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Cauliflower ear is a condition where the outer ear becomes swollen and deformed due to repeated injury, commonly seen in sports like wrestling or boxing. It occurs when the cartilage in the ear is damaged and blood gathers between the cartilage and skin, leading to a lumpy, swollen appearance resembling a cauliflower. Without proper treatment, such as draining the gathered blood or surgery to reshape the ear, the deformity can become permanent.

What is "cauliflower ear"?

cauliflower ear

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The exact origin of the idiom "cool as a cucumber" is uncertain, but it has been in use since the late 17th century. It likely arose from the association of cucumbers with a cool temperature and the idea of maintaining composure. The phrase is used to describe someone who stays calm and collected in difficult situations. It is used in various contexts to describe individuals who remain calm and composed in challenging or stressful situations. It can be applied in personal conversations, discussions about someone's demeanor, or even in professional settings.

What is the origin of the idiom "cool as a cucumber" and when to use it?

(as|) (cool|calm) as a cucumber

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"Fruitcake" is an English slang term that appeared in the early 20th century, drawing on the idea that a cake packed with mixed fruits is "mixed up" or chaotic. By metaphor, it came to describe someone who is eccentric, crazy, or mentally unstable, implying unpredictability or irrationality. The term is used in informal speech, often humorously, teasingly, or critically, especially in American English. It is mildly to moderately derogatory, targeting mental state or behavior rather than being strongly vulgar, though it can be offensive if used seriously.

What is the origin of the term "fruitcake" and how is it used?

fruitcake

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The idiom "hear something through the grapevine" has its roots in the image of information spreading like wildfire through a network of interconnected grapevines or vines. It was popularized in the 19th century, and its precise origin is somewhat unclear.  This idiomatic expression is used when someone learns about a piece of information or gossip indirectly, often through unofficial or informal channels rather than through direct communication. It implies that the information has been passed from person to person, similar to how news might spread through a network of grapevines. It is commonly used in informal conversations.

What is the origin of the idiom "hear something through the grapevine" and when to use it?

to [hear] {sth} (through|on) the grapevine

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The idiom "sour grapes" comes from a fable named "The Fox and the Grapes." In the story, a fox couldn't reach some grapes and, feeling disappointed, claimed that the grapes were probably sour anyway. This phrase is used to describe someone who pretends to dislike or devalue something they desire but cannot have, often out of envy or frustration.

What is the origin of the idiom "sour grapes" and when to use it?

sour grapes

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lemon

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lettuce

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like (two|) peas in a pod

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peach

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peachy

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pickle

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couch potato

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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 "small potatoes" originated in the United States during the 19th century and was associated with the idea of small, insignificant, or unimportant things. Potatoes were once considered a humble and inexpensive food, so this expression is used to suggest that something is of little value or consequence, like a meager or trivial portion of a meal.

What is the origin of the idiom "small potatoes" and when to use it?

small potatoes

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Explore additional vocabulary, expressions, meanings, and usage from Street Talk 1 Lesson 2 with a closer look at the language used in the lesson.

Uno Sguardo Più da Vicino: Lezione 2

Street Talk 1 Lezione 2: Uno sguardo più da vicino

A Closer Look: Lesson 2

Street Talk 1 Lesson 2: A Closer Look