The idiom "catch one's eye" likely originates from the literal action of something visually or physically grabbing a person's attention. While the exact historical origin of this phrase is challenging to trace, idioms often evolve naturally from common language use over time. It is used to describe a situation where something or someone attracts or captures a person's attention or interest.

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

to [catch] {one's} eye

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The idiom "one's eyes are bigger than one's stomach" is used to convey that someone has taken more food than they can actually eat, often due to greed, temptation, or overestimating their appetite. The origin of this phrase is thought to be based on the idea that when people see a variety of appealing dishes, they may serve themselves more food than they can physically consume, leading to waste or discomfort.

What is the origin of the idiom "one's eyes are bigger than one's stomach" and when to use it?

{one's} eyes are bigger than {one's} (stomach|belly)

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to [get] on the stick

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to [have] a weakness for {sb/sth}

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to [have] a thing (for|about) {sb/sth}

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The idiom "out of this world" originated in the early 20th century and is derived from the concept of space exploration and the fascination with the unknown beyond Earth. The expression is mostly used to suggest that the subject is so exceptional or unprecedented that it goes beyond the boundaries of what is typically experienced or understood in the world.

What is the origin of the idiom "out of this world" and when to use it?

out of this world

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to [pad] the bill

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The idiom "pull strings" originates from the world of puppetry, where puppeteers manipulate puppets by pulling on strings or wires attached to them to make them move and perform. In a figurative sense, to "pull strings" means to use one's influence, often behind the scenes, to make things happen or to achieve a desired outcome, just as a puppeteer controls the actions of a puppet. This idiom is commonly used to describe using one's connections, power, or influence to accomplish a goal or sway a decision.

What is the origin of the idiom "pull strings" and when to use it?

to [pull] (some|) strings

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The idiom "make head or tail of something" likely originated from the idea of trying to decipher or understand a complex situation or information. In this expression, "head" and "tail" symbolize the two ends of something, and trying to make sense of it implies the effort to grasp the entirety of a situation. This expression is used when someone is struggling to comprehend or interpret a confusing or unclear situation, piece of information, or problem. It implies a sense of confusion or frustration in trying to understand the matter at hand. It suggests that the situation is so puzzling that one cannot even determine where to start in understanding it.

What is the origin of the idiom "make head or tail of something" and when to use it?

to [make] head or tail (out|) of {sb/sth}

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The idiom "into thin air" can be traced back to William Shakespeare's play "The Tempest," written around 1610-1611. Over time, this phrase gained popularity and became a commonly used expression to describe something disappearing completely without a trace.

What is the origin of the idiom "into thin air" and when to use it?

into thin air

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Learn the vocabulary, informal expressions, and conversational English featured in Street Talk 3 Lesson 8.

Урок 8

Street Talk 3 Лексика: Урок 8

Lesson 8

Street Talk 3 Vocabulary: Lesson 8