The idiom "champagne taste on a beer budget" originated from the concept of having expensive or luxurious preferences but limited financial means. Champagne, known for its association with wealth and luxury, represents extravagant and refined tastes, while a beer budget implies having a modest or restricted amount of money to spend. The phrase highlights the contrast between one's desired lifestyle or preferences and their actual financial resources, emphasizing the need to adjust expectations or desires within the limitations of their budget.

What is the origin of the idiom "champagne taste on a beer budget" and when to use it?

to [let] the cat out of the bag

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The idiom "spill the beans" originated from ancient Greek voting practices, where a secret ballot involved using differently colored beans. A container held the beans, and when it was time to count the votes, the container would be overturned, revealing the colored beans and thus disclosing the outcome. It is now used to convey the idea of accidentally letting out a secret or breaking silence on a matter that was meant to be kept hidden or unknown.

What is the origin of the idiom "spill the beans" and when to use it?

to [spill] the beans

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The idiom "in the open" dates back to the early 19th century and draws its origin from the concept of secrecy versus disclosure. In its literal sense, "open" refers to a space or area that is visible and accessible to all. It is used to imply that something previously unknown or concealed has been revealed or made known to others, suggesting a shift from secrecy to transparency.

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

(out|) in the open

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The idiom "blow one's cover" originated from espionage and undercover operations, particularly in the context of spy activities. It is used to refer to the unintentional or deliberate exposure of a covert identity or secret operation, jeopardizing the individual's ability to maintain their disguise or remain undetected.

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

to [blow] {one's} cover

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The idiom "catch someone in the act" has its origins in the concept of witnessing or discovering someone in the midst of committing a wrongdoing or engaging in prohibited behavior. The phrase emphasizes the act of apprehending or observing someone red-handed, providing undeniable evidence of their actions. It conveys the idea of catching someone in the very moment of their transgression, leaving no room for denial or escape.

What is the origin of the idiom "catch someone in the act" and when to use it?

to [catch] {sb} in the act

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The idiom "catch someone red-handed" traces its origin to the practice of catching a person with literal blood stains on their hands, serving as irrefutable evidence of their involvement in a crime or wrongdoing. In earlier times, the phrase was associated with catching a thief or murderer immediately after the act, when their hands were stained with the victim's blood. Over time, the idiom evolved to describe any situation where someone is caught in the act of committing an offense or engaging in illicit activities, leaving them with undeniable proof of their guilt.

What is the origin of the idiom "catch someone red-handed" and when to use it?

to [catch] {sb} red-handed

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The idiom "come out of the closet" in the context of publicly talking about a belief or information that was previously kept secret is an extension of its original usage within the LGBTQ+ community. Although the phrase's origin in this specific context is not as clear-cut, it likely emerged as a metaphorical extension of the original meaning. Over time, the phrase has been adopted more broadly to describe the act of openly discussing any previously hidden belief, information, or personal aspect of one's life.

What is the origin of the idiom "come out of the closet" and when to use it?

to [come] out of the closet

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The idiom "give the game away" originated from the world of sports and games, specifically referring to the unintentional disclosure of one's strategy, intentions, or secrets, leading to a disadvantage or loss in the game. The phrase is used to suggest that by revealing crucial information or making a mistake, someone unintentionally provides an advantage to their opponents, compromising their chances of winning or achieving their desired outcome.

What is the origin of the idiom "give the game away" and when to use it?

to [give] the game away

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The idiom "lift the lid on something" has its origin in the literal action of lifting the lid or cover of a container to reveal its contents. Metaphorically, the phrase signifies the act of uncovering or exposing hidden or secret information or revealing the truth about a particular situation or subject. It suggests a sense of unveiling or disclosing previously unknown or concealed details, allowing for a deeper understanding or awareness of the matter at hand.

What is the origin of the idiom "lift the lid on something" and when to use it?

to [lift] the lid on {sth}

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The idiom "spill the tea" originated from African American drag culture and gained popularity through the LGBTQ+ community. It refers to the act of sharing or revealing gossip, particularly about someone's personal or private affairs. It is used to indicate a desire for or the act of revealing and discussing gossip, scandals, or juicy details about someone or something.

What is the origin of the idiom "spill the tea" and when to use it?

to [spill] the tea

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The idiom "see the light" originated from the concept of darkness and illumination. It metaphorically conveys the idea of gaining understanding, insight, or clarity about a certain matter or situation. The phrase signifies a shift in perspective or realization, often after a period of confusion, ignorance, or disbelief. It is used to imply that someone has finally come to comprehend or acknowledge the truth or reality of a situation, and it can also refer to making something known publicly.

What is the origin of the idiom "see the light" and when to use it?

to [see] the light (of day|)

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The idiom "call one's bluff" originated from the game of poker, specifically from the action of challenging an opponent's bluff by demanding that they reveal their hand. In poker, a bluff occurs when a player makes a deceptive or false move to deceive others into believing they have a stronger hand than they actually do. This phrase figuratively refers to the act of challenging or demanding proof of someone's claims, threats, or assertions. It implies that the person is being called out on their bluff or challenged to provide evidence or follow through with their stated intentions.

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

to [call] {one's} bluff

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to [bubble] to the surface

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truth has a way of coming out

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to [show] {one's} cards

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Explore English idioms that relate to revealing secrets with examples like "spill the beans" and "give the game away".

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Revealing Secrets