The idiom "bell the cat" has its origins in a fable attributed to Aesop, an ancient Greek storyteller. In the fable, a group of mice discusses how to deal with a cat that preys on them. One mouse proposes placing a bell around the cat's neck to warn them of its approach, but another mouse points out the difficulty of accomplishing this risky task. The phrase is used figuratively to describe a challenging or dangerous undertaking, particularly one in which someone has to assume a significant risk in order to achieve a goal or address a problem.

What is the origin of the idiom "bell the cat" and when to use it?

to [bell] the cat

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The idiom "leap in the dark" originated in the 19th century and is often attributed to British Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli. It is used metaphorically to describe an action or decision that is taken without complete information or understanding of the potential consequences, often involving a degree of risk or uncertainty.

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

(leap|jump) in the dark

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to [push] {one's} luck

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The idiom "sail close to the wind" has nautical origins and refers to a sailing technique where a ship sails as closely as possible to the direction of the wind without the sails luffing or flapping. Figuratively, it is used to describe behavior or actions that push the limits of acceptability, rules, or safety, often involving a degree of risk.

What is the origin of the idiom "sail close to the wind" and when to use it?

to [sail] close to the wind

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The idiom "a mug's game" has its origins in British slang, where "mug" is a term for a gullible or easily deceived person. "A mug's game" is used to describe an activity or endeavor that is considered foolish, unwise, or a waste of time, often due to the high likelihood of losing, being deceived, or experiencing unfavorable outcomes. It implies that engaging in such an activity is not a wise decision.

What is the origin of the idiom "a mug's game" and when to use it?

a mug's game

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The idiom "roll the dice" originates from the act of casting dice in games of chance, where the outcome is unpredictable and relies on luck. Figuratively, it is used to describe taking a risk or making a decision with uncertain outcomes, often implying a willingness to accept the consequences, whether positive or negative.

What is the origin of the idiom "roll the dice" and when to use it?

to [roll] the dice

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The origin of the idiom "play with fire" can be traced back to the literal act of handling or interacting with fire, which is inherently risky and dangerous. Over time, this literal meaning evolved into a figurative expression used to describe engaging in risky or reckless behavior with full awareness of the potential negative consequences.

What is the origin of the idiom "play with fire" and when to use it?

to [play] with fire

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The idiom "have a death wish" originates from the idea that someone exhibits reckless or self-destructive behavior, as if they actively desire to face life-threatening situations or harm themselves. It is a figurative expression used to describe individuals who engage in dangerous activities without apparent concern for their own safety or well-being.

What is the origin of the idiom "have a death wish" and when to use it?

to [have] a death wish

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The exact origin of the idiom "ask for trouble" is not well-documented, but it is a common idiom in the English language that likely developed over time to describe situations where individuals intentionally or unintentionally create problems or difficulties for themselves.

What is the origin of the idiom "ask for trouble" and when to use it?

to [ask] for trouble

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This idiomatic expression "be cruising for a bruising" likely originated in the mid-20th century, and it conveys a warning or prediction of trouble or harm. The phrase is used to suggest a sense of impending trouble, emphasizing that the person's actions or attitude are provocative or risky.

What is the origin of the idiom "be cruising for a bruising" and when to use it?

to [be] cruising for a bruising

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to [step] over the line

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to [cross] a line

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to [borrow] trouble

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The idiom "live on the edge" likely originated from the idea of taking risks, living a life filled with excitement, and not adhering to conventional norms or safety. It is used to imply living in a daring or adventurous manner, often with a disregard for potential consequences.

What is the origin of the idiom "live on the edge" and when to use it?

to [live] on the edge

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Discover how English idioms like "sail close to the wind" and "play with fire" relate to asking for trouble in English.

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Asking for Trouble

English Idioms for "Asking for Trouble"