The idiom "brass rags" is a reference to the metal pots and pans that were used to cook food in the past. When someone is "parting brass rags," they are essentially throwing their pots and pans around, which is a sign of a heated argument. It is a humorous idiom that is used to describe a heated argument.

What is the origin of the idiom "part brass rags with someone" and when to use it?

to [part] brass rags with {sb}

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The origin of this idiom is unclear, but it likely comes from the idea of "terms" referring to the conditions or agreements that govern a relationship. When two people are "on bad terms," it suggests that the terms of their relationship are not favorable or agreeable to either party. It is commonly used to describe relationships between individuals or groups that are not in a good state.

What is the origin of the idiom "on bad terms" and when to use it?

on bad terms

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The idiom "nourish a viper in one's bosom" can be traced back to ancient Roman mythology and Aesop's fables. The phrase refers to the story of a person who unknowingly takes care of a venomous snake, symbolizing a treacherous or deceitful individual. It is used to caution against misplaced trust or being too generous to someone who does not deserve it. It is often employed to describe situations where someone is deceived by a person they had trusted or helped.

What is the origin of the idiom "nourish a viper in one's bosom" and when to use it?

to [nourish|nurse|foster] a (viper|snake) in {one's} bosom

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The origin of the idiom "no love lost between" can be traced back to Shakespeare's play "The Merchant of Venice" written in the late 16th century. It is used to describe a situation where there is tension, conflict, or a lack of harmony between two parties. It emphasizes the absence of positive emotions or friendly relations.

What is the origin of the idiom "no love lost between" and when to use it?

(no|little) love lost between

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The idiom "fair-weather friend" is derived from the fact that a fair-weather day is a day when the weather is mild and pleasant. Similarly, a fair-weather friend is someone who is only around when things are going well. It is used to describe someone who appears to be a friend but abandons or turns against you when you face hardships or adversity. It highlights the insincerity or lack of true friendship.

What is the origin of the idiom "fair-weather friend" and when to use it?

fair-weather friend

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The origin of the idiom "cold shoulder" is uncertain, but there are a few theories about its origin. One theory suggests that it comes from the custom of serving a cold shoulder of meat to an unwelcome guest as a sign of rejection or disinterest. Another theory links it to the practice of turning one's shoulder coldly toward someone to show indifference or lack of interest. Regardless, this expression is now used to describe situations where someone is intentionally being distant or unfriendly towards another person.

What is the origin of the idiom "cold shoulder" and when to use it?

cold shoulder

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The origin of the idiom "burn one's bridges" can be traced back to military strategies. In ancient times, armies would sometimes burn the bridges they crossed to prevent retreat, committing themselves fully to the battle. This act eliminated the option of turning back and forced them to move forward with determination. This idiom is used to describe a deliberate choice or action that makes it impossible to go back. It shows a commitment to moving forward without the possibility of returning to a previous state or relationship.

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

to [burn] {one's} (bridges|boats)

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The idiom "cat-and-dog life" is derived from the fact that cats and dogs are natural enemies. They are often seen fighting and chasing each other, and they are rarely seen getting along. The idiom "cat-and-dog life" is a common idiom that is used to describe a relationship that is full of conflict.

What is the origin of the idiom "cat-and-dog life" and when to use it?

cat-and-dog life

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The idiom "drop someone or something like a bad habit" is thought to have originated in the early 19th century. It is believed to be a reference to the fact that bad habits are difficult to break, and that it is often easier to simply abandon them altogether. This idiom is used to describe the act of quickly and completely severing ties with a person, object, or situation that is considered undesirable, harmful, or no longer beneficial. It emphasizes a strong determination to remove someone or something from one's life.

What is the origin of the idiom "drop someone or something like a bad habit" and when to use it?

to [drop] {sb/sth} like a bad habit

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The idiom "not give somebody or something house room" is thought to have originated in the 16th century. It is believed to be a reference to the fact that people are often reluctant to allow strangers into their homes. This idiom is used to describe a strong aversion or refusal to accept or tolerate someone or something. It suggests a complete lack of interest, support, or willingness to engage with the person or idea in question.

What is the origin of the idiom "not give somebody or something house room" and when to use it?

to {not} [give] {sb/sth} (any|) house room

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Explore English idioms regarding unfriendliness with examples like "could shoulder" and "on bad terms".

英语中表示“不友好”的习语