The origin of the idiom "wrap someone around one's finger" is not precisely known. However, it is likely derived from the action of physically manipulating string or thread around one's finger. The act of wrapping, twisting, or winding something around the finger implies control and manipulation. It is commonly used in discussions about interpersonal relationships, particularly those involving charm, persuasion, or manipulation.

What is the origin of the idiom "wrap someone around one's finger" and when to use it?

to [wrap|twist|wind] {sb} around {one's} (little|) finger

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The origin of the phrase "get on one's nerve" can be traced back to the late 19th century. The word "nerve" in this context refers to one's sensitivity or emotional state. The phrase likely emerged from the idea that persistent or irritating stimuli could affect one's nerves, causing discomfort or annoyance. This idiom is commonly employed in interpersonal relationships, such as with family members, friends, or colleagues, to express exasperation or frustration with someone's behavior, habits, or actions that continually test one's patience or sensitivity.

What is the origin of the idiom "get on one's nerve" and when to use it?

to [get] on {one's} nerves

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gZ2V0IG9uIG9uZSdzIG5lcnZlcw&hash=b0db6ad2df06d33c9dc8769c48c92c0a99b9eb36&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gZ2V0IG9uIG9uZSdzIG5lcnZlcw&hash=6d842d744f80e6ba460919d11dcda9a78fd31642&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

to lean on

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The origin of the idiom "drive a wedge" can be traced back to its literal meaning. The use of wedges as tools to create separation or division predates the idiomatic expression. In carpentry and other manual trades, wedges are used to split or drive apart objects or materials. It is commonly used in discussions related to interpersonal relationships, politics, social dynamics, and conflicts.

What is the origin of the idiom "drive a wedge" and when to use it?

to [drive] a wedge

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The idiom "at one's beck and call" originated in the past when social roles and hierarchies were more pronounced. It means that someone is always ready and willing to respond to the requests or commands of another person. It implies a strong level of obedience and availability, indicating that the person being referred to is constantly at the service and disposal of someone else. It is often used to depict relationships with power dynamics, such as employer-employee relationships or situations involving personal assistants or service staff.

What is the origin of the idiom "at one's beck and call" and when to use it?

at  {one's} beck and call

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=YXQgIG9uZSdzIGJlY2sgYW5kIGNhbGw&hash=491995d9bfec43a850bba4318b9c944e359ef94b&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

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The origin of the idiom "be in each other's pockets" is unclear. It likely emerged from the notion of two people being so physically close that they are constantly near each other, like items kept in the pockets of clothing. It is used to describe a situation where two or more people are constantly in close proximity, often to the point of being overly involved or dependent on each other. It implies a lack of personal space or independence between the individuals.

What is the origin of the idiom "be in each other's pockets" and when to use it?

to [be|live] in each other's [pocket]

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gYmUgaW4gZWFjaCBvdGhlcidzIHBvY2tldA&hash=3acc91d3826fc4b6ec23c027c5602ebefe400a20&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

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rent

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=cmVudA&hash=9979067b3fee208b532e8f08802095f39e8b7b83&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=cmVudA&hash=4ab4a0c176d25fb6e3beff785e81d218027da986&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

contract

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=Y29udHJhY3Q&hash=b52573f1184f13d08b59fab60443cf3af8e03410&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

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estate agent

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=ZXN0YXRlIGFnZW50&hash=3e72ff46720f24f6916ecb43e3d3f14f1a2fc029&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=ZXN0YXRlIGFnZW50&hash=671345a6128761ee2e905b6e33076ee3e5cf4496&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

notice

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=bm90aWNl&hash=70e845b5bfac0d32005c0e9752cca883a4d46571&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

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landlord

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=bGFuZGxvcmQ&hash=9e8149fba6e6f2ed0b427f2eae2b96a78170db13&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

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deposit

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=ZGVwb3NpdA&hash=54e285758eb9edaa203524b0c5d2aeec7b2185a5&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

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letting

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=bGV0dGluZw&hash=8c5d41780ef0022526cd5d09f8a6ca7c82f0ccc4&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

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mortgage

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lease

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=bGVhc2U&hash=d32066d1eac8ce411118ea88b940a55aca3de4ef&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=bGVhc2U&hash=b8cb83b732dc4185ff9bb2fa3882ef922c7110d7&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

tenant

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The origin of the idiom "have a soft spot for somebody or something" is not specifically known, but it likely originated from the figurative use of the word "soft" to describe a tender or gentle feeling towards someone or something. The idiom implies that there is a specific area in one's heart that is emotionally sensitive and receptive to a particular person or thing. It signifies feeling a particular fondness, affection, or sympathy towards them.

What is the origin of the idiom "have a soft spot for somebody or something" and when to use it?

to [have] a soft spot for {sb/sth}

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Here you will find the vocabulary from Unit 6 - 6C in the Insight Advanced coursebook, such as "tenant", "drive a wedge", "deposit", etc.

Insight Advanced "ユニット6 - 6C" 語彙