The phrase "under one's feet" originated from the image of someone physically standing on or having control over another person or object. It conveys a sense of power imbalance, subordination, or being subjected to someone else's will. This idiom is commonly utilized in discussions about power dynamics, relationships, authority, and situations where one party exerts significant control or influence over another.

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

under {one's} feet

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The phrase "try one's patience" has its origin in the English language, but tracing its precise origin is challenging. The concept of patience being tested or strained is a universal human experience, and similar expressions exist in various cultures and languages.  This idiom can be used in personal situations, such as dealing with a stubborn child or a challenging family member, as well as in professional settings, like handling difficult clients or navigating complex projects. It encapsulates the idea of maintaining composure and self-control in the face of trying circumstances that push the limits of one's patience.

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

to [try|test] {one's} patience

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The exact origin of the phrase "ruffle one's feathers" is unclear, but it likely derives from observations of actual birds and their physical response to agitation or disturbance. When birds are agitated or feel threatened, their feathers may become ruffled, appearing disheveled or raised.  It is often used to describe interpersonal conflicts, disagreements, or instances where someone feels offended or provoked. This idiom can be employed in personal relationships, professional settings, or social interactions to convey the idea of emotional disturbance or irritation caused by external factors.

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

to [ruffle] {one's} feathers

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The origin of the phrase "rub someone the wrong way" is not definitively known, but it likely stems from the literal act of rubbing a surface in the opposite direction of its natural grain, which can cause discomfort or irritation. This idiom is frequently used to express the feeling of being annoyed, bothered, or unsettled by someone or something that doesn't resonate well with one's own personality, values, or expectations. It can apply to small everyday annoyances as well as more significant instances of interpersonal conflict or discord.

What is the origin of the idiom "rub someone the wrong way" and when to use it?

to [rub] {sb} the wrong way

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The exact origin of the phrase "get one's back up" is uncertain, but it likely originates from observing the physical reaction of animals, particularly cats, when they are threatened or agitated. When a cat feels challenged or provoked, it arches its back and raises the fur along its spine as a defensive response. This visual cue has been metaphorically used to describe a similar defensive or irritated reaction in humans. This idiom can be used to describe interpersonal conflicts, debates, or confrontations where emotions run high and individuals react defensively. It can also be used to depict instances where someone's ego or sense of self is at stake, leading them to become defensive or combative.

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

to [get|put] {one's} back up

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The exact origin of the phrase "have had it with someone or something" is unclear, but it likely emerged as a figurative expression to depict a sense of reaching a breaking point or maximum level of frustration. The phrase uses the metaphorical gesture of raising one's hand or pointing to a specific spot on the body, indicating that the frustration or annoyance has reached a level that is unbearable or intolerable. This idiom is commonly used in personal relationships, work environments, or any situation where there is a prolonged issue, repeated behavior, or ongoing stress that has pushed someone to their breaking point. It signifies a strong emotional response and conveys the idea that further interaction or endurance is no longer possible, as the individual has had enough and can no longer tolerate the source of frustration.

What is the origin of the idiom "have had it someone or something" and when to use it?

to [have] had it (up to here|) with {sb/sth}

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The exact origin of the phrase "get under one's skin" is uncertain but it likely emerged from the idea of something or someone causing a strong emotional reaction that feels deeply personal and invasive. The phrase draws on the physical sensation of irritation when something is touching or bothering the sensitive layer beneath the skin. This idiom is often used in interpersonal relationships, such as when someone's actions or words consistently provoke frustration or anger. It can also be used to describe situations where external factors, such as a challenging task, a difficult situation, or an ongoing problem, have a profound impact on someone's emotions or mental state.

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

to [get] under {one's} skin

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The origin of the idiom "get one's goat" dates back to horse racing in the early 1900s. It was believed that horses would become agitated and perform poorly if their companion goat, which often kept them calm, was taken away. Thus, if someone wanted to sabotage a competitor's horse, they would "get their goat" by removing the calming influence, leading to a negative impact on the horse's performance. The phrase is commonly used in casual conversations to express discontent or irritation with a particular situation, behavior, or individual.

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

to [get] {one's} goat

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The exact origin of the phrase "get out of one's hair" is unclear. However, it is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-20th century. The phrase draws on the imagery of someone being bothered or annoyed by someone else, likening the annoying person to hair that is constantly in one's face or causing discomfort. It is commonly employed in interpersonal relationships, such as family dynamics or friendships, when someone feels overwhelmed or irritated by another person's constant presence or interference. It can also be used in professional settings, indicating the need for a colleague or subordinate to stop causing inconvenience or distraction.

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

to [get] out of {one's} hair

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The origin of the phrase "get up on the wrong side of bed" can be traced back to ancient Roman superstitions. Romans believed that getting out of bed on the left side brought bad luck or negative energy. This belief was rooted in the idea that the left side was associated with sinister or evil forces. The phrase can be used humorously or empathetically, acknowledging that everyone has off days or moments of irritability. It is commonly used to describe someone's general demeanor, suggesting that they seem to be in a bad mood or acting in an unusually irritable manner.

What is the origin of the idiom "make a go of something" and when to use it?

to [get] up on the wrong side of (the|) bed

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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

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The exact origin of the phrase "get off one's back" is unclear, but it likely emerged in the mid-20th century as an idiomatic expression. The phrase draws on the imagery of someone being constantly hounded or pursued, likening the nagging or pressure from another person to an unwanted burden on one's back. It is commonly employed in interpersonal relationships, such as between family members, friends, or romantic partners, when someone feels overwhelmed or frustrated by another person's constant demands or criticisms.

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

to [get] off {one's} back

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The idiom "like a bear with a sore head" originated from the behavior of bears when they are in pain or discomfort. Bears are known to become irritable and grumpy when they are suffering from physical ailments or injuries, and this behavior inspired the metaphorical use of the phrase. It is used to describe someone who is exceptionally irritable, bad-tempered, or easily angered. It suggests that the person is in a state of extreme irritability, similar to how a bear might react when experiencing physical pain or discomfort.

What is the origin of the idiom "like a bear with a sore head" and when to use it?

like a bear with a sore head

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The exact origin of the idiom "cheesed off" can be traced back to British English. The phrase likely emerged in the mid-20th century, possibly deriving from the British slang term "cheese it," which means to stop or desist. The phrase is often used when someone is irritated by a series of events or ongoing circumstances that have tested their patience. It can be used to vent about minor daily annoyances, such as traffic jams or long queues, as well as more significant frustrations, like dealing with difficult people or encountering setbacks.

What is the origin of the idiom "cheesed off" and when to use it?

cheesed off

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The phrase "browned off" is believed to have originated in British English, likely in the mid-20th century. It may have derived from the notion of something turning brown when it becomes overcooked or burnt, which can be associated with a sense of dissatisfaction or frustration. The expression can be used to express discontent with a specific situation, such as being repeatedly let down by someone or experiencing ongoing inconveniences. It is also used to vent about frustrating experiences, such as dealing with bureaucracy, enduring monotonous tasks, or facing setbacks.

What is the origin of the idiom "browned off" and when to use it?

browned off

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The phrase "step on one's toes" originates from the physical act of unintentionally treading on someone's foot, causing discomfort. This idiom is used in various contexts or occasions where someone unintentionally oversteps boundaries or encroaches upon another person's territory, responsibilities, or interests. It can be applied in professional settings when one person interferes with another's work or expertise without permission, leading to tension or conflict.

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

to [step|tread] on {one's} toes

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Master English idioms regarding annoyances, like "cheesed off" and "like a bear with a sore head".

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