The phrase "tip of the iceberg" comes from the literal idea of an iceberg, which is a massive piece of ice floating in the ocean. However, what is visible above the water's surface is just a small portion of the entire iceberg; the majority of it is hidden beneath the water. This concept was first popularized in the early 20th century to describe situations where only a small, visible part of a larger issue or problem is apparent.

What is the origin of the idiom "tip of the iceberg" and when to use it?

tip of the iceberg

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The idiom "Uncle Tom Cobley and all" originates from the English folk ballad "Widdicombe Fair." This traditional song tells the story of a journey to the village fair in Widecombe-in-the-Moor, Devon, England. In the song, a long list of characters is mentioned, with Uncle Tom Cobley usually being the last name on the list. This expression is used to humorously refer to a large or diverse group of people or things. It is often employed to emphasize inclusivity or to indicate an exhaustive list.

What is the origin of the idiom "Uncle Tom Cobley and all" and when to use it?

Uncle Tom Cobley and all

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The idiom "far as the eye can see" is a simple expression that likely has ancient origins. It is derived from the literal idea that one can see things extending to a great distance when there are no obstructions or obstacles in the way. This phrase is used to describe a wide, open view or a situation that seems to go on forever.

What is the origin of the idiom "far as the eye can see" and when to use it?

(as|) far as the eye (can|could|will) see

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The idiom "across the board" likely originates from board games where movement or progress is made uniformly across all positions on the game board. It means that something applies consistently to all aspects or areas without exception. This phrase is often used to describe a situation where something is universal or applies without any exceptions or variations.

What is the origin of the idiom "across the board" and when to use it?

across the board

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The idiom "all and sundry" is an old English expression that dates back to at least the 16th century. It comes from the idea that something is open or available to "all" (everyone) and "sundry" (various or miscellaneous) people. This idiomatic expression is used to refer to a broad or diverse group of people, indicating that something is meant for or includes everyone without exception.

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

all and sundry

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The idiom "bag and baggage" has its origins in the 16th century and is related to the practice of travelers carrying their belongings in bags and other luggage. "Bag" refers to personal belongings in a bag, and "baggage" refers to all the luggage a person carries when moving or traveling. People use this phrase to mean "with all one's possessions" or "including everything." It often implies leaving or departing, usually from a place, often with a sense of finality.

What is the origin of the idiom "bag and baggage" and when to use it?

bag and baggage

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The idiom "by a long shot" is believed to have originated in American English in the mid-19th century. It likely comes from the world of shooting or marksmanship, where a "shot" refers to an attempt or a bullet fired from a firearm. A "long shot" in this context would be a shot taken from a considerable distance, making it less likely to hit the target accurately. This phrase is often used when one thing surpasses or falls short of another by a noticeable degree.

What is the origin of the idiom "by a long shot" and when to use it?

by a long shot

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The idiom "every mother's son" is an old English idiom that dates back to at least the 16th century. It refers to every male, without exception, as if they were all the sons of every mother. This idiomatic expression is mostly used to emphasize that everyone, regardless of gender, is included or affected.

What is the origin of the idiom "every mother's son" and when to use it?

every mother's son

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The idiom "every Tom, Dick, and Harry" is an idiom that has been used in English since at least the 17th century. It is a way of referring to random or ordinary individuals without specifying their actual names. Tom, Dick, and Harry are common given names, and the phrase suggests that it includes everyone, regardless of their identity. People often use this phrase to describe a situation where many people, often of little significance, are involved or to express a sense of generality.

What is the origin of the idiom "every Tom, Dick, and Harry" and when to use it?

every Tom, Dick, and Harry

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The idiom "everything but the kitchen sink" likely originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It humorously suggests that everything conceivable has been included, except for the literal kitchen sink, which is too large or impractical to include in a particular situation. This idiomatic phrase is used to describe a situation where a large or excessive number of items or elements are included, often to the point of excess.

What is the origin of the idiom "everything but the kitchen sink" and when to use it?

everything but the kitchen sink

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The idiom "from A to Z" is derived from the English alphabet. "A" represents the beginning, and "Z" represents the end. It is a way of saying that something encompasses everything or covers the entire range. This idiomatic expression is used to indicate completeness or comprehensiveness, suggesting that something includes all possible aspects or items.

What is the origin of the idiom "from A to Z" and when to use it?

from A to Z

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The phrase "right and left" is a straightforward idiom that originates from the directional words "right" and "left." It signifies actions or events happening on both sides, often simultaneously. The use of "right" and "left" in this expression reflects the idea of encompassing all directions or sides. People use this idiomatic expression to describe situations where something is happening everywhere, or actions are taking place on all sides without discrimination. It is commonly used to indicate a widespread or extensive occurrence of events, often in a dynamic or active context.

What is the origin of the idiom "right and left" and when to use it?

right and left

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The idiom "on a biblical scale" draws its origin from references to events or actions described in the Bible, which often depict grand or extraordinary occurrences. The Bible contains numerous accounts of dramatic events, miracles, and epic stories, and thus, the term "biblical" has come to signify something of immense proportions or significance. This idiomatic expression is used to emphasize the enormity or significance of a situation or event. It suggests that the scale of what is being described is comparable to the epic events found in biblical narratives.

What is the origin of the idiom "on a biblical scale" and when to use it?

on a biblical scale

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The idiom "the whole nine yards" may have originated from the length of a machine gun ammunition belt during World War II, while others suggest it could be related to the length of fabric needed for a complete three-piece suit. Despite the uncertainty, it has become a widely used idiom in the English language. People use this idiomatic phrase to mean the entirety or full extent of something. It is often used to emphasize that everything possible or available is being included or considered.

What is the origin of the idiom "the whole nine yards" and when to use it?

the whole nine yards

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The idiom "the world and his wife" is an old English idiom that dates back to at least the 18th century. It reflects a traditional view of society where the husband was considered the head of the household, and "the world" represented everyone, including the husband and his wife. It implies that a large or diverse group of people, often to the point of excess, is involved in a particular situation.People use this phrase to describe a situation where a large number of individuals, often without distinction, are involved or attending an event. It emphasizes the idea that a gathering or event is very crowded or that many people are interested or participating.

What is the origin of the idiom "the world and his wife" and when to use it?

the world and his wife

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The idiom "to one's fingertips" is rooted in the idea that someone possesses a deep or thorough understanding or mastery of something, as if they have knowledge or expertise extending to their very fingertips. While the precise origin of the phrase is not clear, it has been used in English for centuries to convey a high level of competence or familiarity. This phrase is used to emphasize that someone is exceptionally knowledgeable or skilled in a particular area. It suggests that their expertise is so extensive that it permeates every aspect of their being.

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

to {one's} fingertips

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The idiom "you name it" is a colloquial expression that originated in the United States. Its exact origin is uncertain, but it is believed to have emerged in the 20th century. This phrase is a way of saying that there are many options or possibilities, and the speaker is open to considering or discussing any of them. This idiomatic idiom is used to indicate that there are numerous choices or possibilities, and they are willing to consider or discuss all of them. It conveys a sense of flexibility and openness to various options.

What is the origin of the idiom "you name it" and when to use it?

you name it

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The idiom "take something up a notch" is derived from the idea of adjusting or increasing the level or intensity of something by moving it higher on a scale or dial. The word "notch" in this context refers to a small groove or indentation on a scale, like those found on a thermometer or volume control. By moving something "up a notch," you are elevating or intensifying it. This phrase is mainly used to describe the act of improving or making something more intense or extreme.

What is the origin of the idiom "take something up a notch" and when to use it?

to [take] {sth} up a notch

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The idiom "back-of-the-envelope calculation" originates from a common practice in which people perform quick calculations or estimations on the back of an envelope or a scrap of paper when they don't have access to a calculator or formal tools. This practice is often associated with simplicity, informality, and rough estimations. This idiomatic phrase is used to describe a rough, simplified, or quick estimation or calculation, typically done without using precise data or detailed analysis.

What is the origin of the idiom "back-of-the-envelope calculation" and when to use it?

back-of-the-envelope calculation

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The idiom "roots and all" comes from the idea of pulling up a plant or weed completely, including its roots. It signifies thoroughness and completeness, as when you remove a plant "roots and all," you ensure that no part of it is left behind. This phrase is often used to emphasize that something is complete and thorough, with every detail considered or accounted for. It suggests that nothing has been omitted or left unfinished.

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

roots and all

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The idiom "warts and all" is often attributed to the English soldier and statesman Oliver Cromwell. According to legend, when Cromwell sat for a portrait, he instructed the artist to paint him accurately, "warts and all," without idealizing or flattering his appearance. Whether this story is entirely true or not, the phrase has become associated with the idea of depicting someone or something as they truly are, flaws and all. This idiomatic phrase is used to indicate an unvarnished or unembellished representation of someone or something, without trying to hide imperfections or weaknesses.

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

warts and all

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Explore English idioms regarding extent with examples like "by a long shot" and "warts and all".

Engelse uitdrukkingen voor "Omvang"