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Describing People /

Taste & Will

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to have one's (own) way
2-
to not be caught dead
3-
one's cup of tea
4-
to be one's scene
5-
to be in for a treat
6-
at one's pleasure
7-
labor of love
8-
to feast one's eyes on somebody or something
9-
rabbit hole
10-
to do as somebody please
11-
to do one's own thing
12-
to turn one's nose up
13-
to have an eye for something
14-
to make a face at somebody or something
15-
to scratch the itch
16-
somebody can take it or leave it
17-
too much like hard work
to [have|get] {one's} (own|) way
to have one's (own) way
phrase
uk flag
/hæv ɡɛt wˈʌnz ˈoʊn wˈeɪ/
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Disapproving
Idiom

to get or do what one wants despite the odds or other people's desires

example
Example
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Despite objections from his colleagues, David had his way and implemented his innovative ideas, which turned out to be a great success.
Emily's negotiation skills were unmatched, and she always found a way to get her own way during business deals, ensuring favorable outcomes for her company.
What is the origin of the idiom "have one's way" and when to use it?

The idiom "have one's way" does not have a specific historical origin. It has evolved naturally in the English language over time to express the concept of achieving or obtaining what one desires, despite opposition or contrary opinions. It implies a sense of determination, persistence, or assertiveness in pursuing one's goals or preferences.

to {not} be (caught|seen) dead
to not be caught dead
phrase
uk flag
/nˌɑːt biː kˈɔːt sˈiːn dˈɛd/
Idiom
Informal

used for saying that someone strongly refuses to participate in or be associated with something, often due to strong dislike, embarrassment, or a sense of moral objection

What is the origin of the idiom "not be caught dead" and when to use it?

The idiom "not be caught dead" originates from the idea of preserving one's reputation and dignity. It conveys the strong sentiment that a person would rather face severe consequences, even death, than engage in a particular action or associate with something they strongly dislike or disapprove of. This idiom is used to emphasize that someone strongly dislikes or disapproves of a particular action, situation, or item. It is often employed to convey a sense of personal preference, moral objection, or social stigma.

{one's} cup of tea
one's cup of tea
phrase
uk flag
/wˈʌnz kˈʌp ʌv tˈiː/
Idiom
Informal

a type of activity, subject, etc. that one is very good at or enjoys very much

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

The idiom "one's cup of tea" originated in Britain and is rooted in the cultural significance of tea in British society. Tea is a popular beverage in Britain, and individuals have different preferences for how they like their tea prepared, such as the strength, sweetness, or addition of milk. The idiom metaphorically extends this preference for tea to other aspects of life. The idiom suggests that just as individuals have different preferences for how they like their tea, people have varied likes and dislikes in other aspects of life.

to [be] {one's} scene
to be one's scene
phrase
uk flag
/nˌɑːt wˈʌnz sˈiːn/
Idiom
Informal

to be something that one is interested in

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

The idiom "be one's scene" does not have a specific historical origin. It is a modern idiomatic expression that has developed over time in contemporary language usage. It used to describe something that aligns with a person's interests, preferences, or personal style. The phrase often implies a sense of comfort, enjoyment, or a feeling of belonging.

to [be] in for a treat
to be in for a treat
phrase
uk flag
/biː ɪn fɚɹə tɹˈiːt/
Idiom
Informal

to tell someone that they are really about to enjoy something

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

The idiomatic phrase "be in for a treat" does not have a specific historical origin. It is a common idiomatic expression that has evolved naturally in the English language over time. It is used to express anticipation or expectation of a positive and enjoyable experience. The phrase is often used to create a sense of excitement, surprise, or pleasure in the listener.

at {one's} pleasure
at one's pleasure
phrase
uk flag
/æt wˈʌnz plˈɛʒɚ/
Formal
Idiom

used for saying that someone can do something whenever and however they want

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

The phrase "at one's pleasure" originated during medieval and early modern times in English. It means that someone has the freedom or authority to do something as they like or prefer. It is commonly used in formal situations, like legal or official documents, to give someone the power to make decisions or take actions according to their own choice. It can also be used more generally to show that someone has the freedom to do something when it suits them or when they want to.

labor of love
labor of love
phrase
uk flag
/lˈeɪbɚɹ ʌv lˈʌv/
Idiom

a task that is done only for the sake of one's pleasure and not for any rewards of any kind

What is the origin of the idiom "labor of love" and when to use it?

The idiom "labor of love" originated from the combination of two concepts: "labor," which refers to work or effort, and "love," which signifies deep affection or passion. The idiom is used to emphasize that the motivation behind an endeavor comes from a personal sense of fulfillment, enjoyment, or commitment, rather than external factors.

to [feast] {one's} eyes on  {sb/sth}
to feast one's eyes on somebody or something
phrase
uk flag
/fˈiːst wˈʌnz ˈaɪz ˌɑːn ˌɛsbˈiː slˈæʃ ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ/
Idiom

to observe someone or something with a great sense of pleasure or fulfillment

What is the origin of the idiom "feast one's eyes on somebody or something" and when to use it?

The idiom "feast one's eyes on somebody or something" originates from the figurative use of the word "feast." In its literal sense, a feast is a lavish meal or banquet characterized by abundance and enjoyment. However, when used metaphorically, "feast" implies indulgence, satisfaction, and delight in a particular experience. It is used to convey the idea of delighting in the visual appearance or beauty of a person, object, or scene. It suggests a sense of intense pleasure or enjoyment derived from looking at something that is visually appealing or captivating.

rabbit hole
rabbit hole
noun
uk flag
/ɹˈæbɪt hˈoʊl/

something that a person finds so interesting that they cannot let go of it

What is the origin of the idiom "rabbit hole" and when to use it?

The idiom "rabbit hole" originates from Lewis Carroll's famous novel "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland." In the story, Alice follows a white rabbit down a rabbit hole, which leads her into a whimsical and unpredictable world. The term "rabbit hole" has since been used metaphorically to describe a situation where someone becomes deeply interested or obsessed with something, unable to let go or move on easily.

Grammatical Information:

compound noun
to [do] as {sb} [please]
to do as somebody please
phrase
uk flag
/dˈuː æz ˌɛsbˈiː plˈiːz/
Idiom
Informal

to perform any activity in the way that one prefers, paying no attention to what others might say or think about one

What is the origin of the idiom "do as one pleases" and when to use it?

The idiom "do as one pleases" is a common expression that has been used in the English language for centuries. Its origin can be traced to the Middle English period, where the word "please" was derived from the Old French word "plaisir," meaning "to please" or "to satisfy." It is often used in discussions about personal choices, lifestyle preferences, and decision-making processes.

to [do] {one's} own thing
to do one's own thing
phrase
uk flag
/dˈuː wˈʌnz ˈoʊn θˈɪŋ/
Idiom
Informal

to do whatever makes one happy or satisfied, without caring about other's opinions

What is the origin of the idiom "do one's own thing" and when to use it?

The idiom "do one's own thing" became popular during the 1960s and 1970s when people were embracing individualism, personal freedom, and self-expression. It was a time when people valued being unique and expressing themselves freely. It is used to describe the act of pursuing one's interests, preferences, or passions independent of external influences or societal expectations. It implies a sense of autonomy, self-determination, and nonconformity.

to [turn] {one's} [nose] up
to turn one's nose up
phrase
uk flag
/tˈɜːn wˈʌnz nˈoʊz ˈʌp/
Idiom
Informal

to turn something down because one believes that it is not satisfactory enough

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

The origin of the idiom "turn one's nose up" is believed to have originated from the physical gesture of lifting one's nose in the air or tilting it upward. This gesture is often associated with a facial expression of looking down on something or someone, showing that one thinks they are better or superior. Over time, this gesture and expression became associated with the idea of rejecting or showing dislike towards something or someone considered inferior. The phrase is commonly used in informal conversations and can carry a slightly negative or disapproving tone. It conveys the idea of someone displaying a sense of snobbishness or superiority, often looking down upon others or considering themselves above certain things.

to have an eye for something
phrase
uk flag
/hæv ɐn ˈaɪ fɔːɹ ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ/
Idiom

to naturally be good at noticing, judging, or appreciating something, particularly a thing's value or a person's talents

What is the origin of the idiom "have an eye for" and when to use it?

The idiom "have an eye for" originates from the idea of having a keen sense of observation or a natural ability to notice and appreciate certain qualities in something. The use of "eye" in this idiom dates back to the 16th century when it was common to associate the ability to see with the ability to understand or appreciate something. It is used to describe someone who has a natural talent or ability to notice and appreciate certain qualities, especially in areas such as art, design, fashion, or any field that requires a good sense of aesthetics or detail.

to [make|pull] a [face] at {sb/sth}
to make a face at somebody or something
phrase
uk flag
/mˌeɪk pˈʊl ɐ fˈeɪs æt ˌɛsbˈiː slˈæʃ ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ/
Humorous
Idiom

to alter one's facial expression in response to someone or something, often to convey emotions such as dislike, disgust, or mockery

What is the origin of the idiom "make a face at somebody or something" and when to use it?

The idiom "make a face at somebody or something" comes from the natural act of twisting or changing one's facial expressions to show dislike, displeasure, or amusement. It originated from the observation that people often use their faces to communicate their feelings or reactions. This idiom is commonly used in informal settings to describe the act of distorting one's face to convey a negative or humorous reaction towards someone or something. It can be used to express disapproval, annoyance, or mockery towards a person, object, or situation.

to [scratch] (the|this|that) itch
to scratch the itch
phrase
uk flag
/skɹˈætʃ ðə ðɪs ðæt ˈɪtʃ/
Idiom
Informal

to fulfill one's need or desire for something

What is the origin of the idiom "scratch the itch" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "scratch the itch" is based on the literal act of scratching an itch on one's body to relieve the sensation of irritation or discomfort. It metaphorically represents taking action to satisfy a strong desire, address a need, or resolve a problem. This idiom is commonly used to convey the idea of fulfilling a longing or satisfying a craving. The phrase implies a proactive approach and a willingness to take action in order to achieve a desired outcome.

somebody can take it or leave it
sentence
uk flag
/ˌɛsbˈiː kæn kʊd tˈeɪk ɪt ɔːɹ lˈiːv ɪt/
Idiom

used to say that someone is indifferent about having, eating, seeing, or doing something

What is the origin of the idiom "someone can take it or leave it" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "someone can take it or leave it" is not attributed to a specific source or historical event. It is a common expression that has likely evolved naturally over time in the English language. It is used to convey that a person is indifferent or neutral towards something. It suggests that they have no strong preference or desire either to have or engage in a particular thing or activity.

too much like hard work
phrase
uk flag
/tˈuː mʌtʃ lˈaɪk hˈɑːɹd wˈɜːk/

(of an activity) too time consuming or requiring a lot of effort to be done or completed

What is the origin of the idiom "too much like hard work" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "too much like hard work" lies in the common understanding that certain tasks or activities require significant effort and exertion. It is used to convey the idea that a particular task or activity is excessively difficult or requires a substantial amount of effort. The idiom is informal in nature and is commonly used in everyday conversations to express the sentiment that the perceived effort outweighs the perceived benefit or reward.

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