The idiom "in action" originated in the military, specifically during World War I, when soldiers were sent to the front lines to fight. It was used to describe soldiers who were actively engaged in combat and carrying out their training. It is often used to describe situations where someone is performing a task or activity that they are trained for or skilled at.

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

in action

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The origin of the idiom "in working order" likely dates back to the 19th century when industrialization led to the mass production of machinery and equipment. The phrase likely developed as a way to describe machinery or equipment that was operating as intended and was not experiencing any issues or malfunctions. Over time, the idiom "in working order" has become a common way to describe the condition of a wide variety of items, including machinery, equipment, vehicles, and even non-mechanical things such as relationships or organizations.

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

in (good|perfect|full|) working order

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The phrase "in full swing" originated in the early 1800s and was initially used to describe the swinging motion of a ship or pendulum. It later evolved to describe the energetic and dynamic movement of people or events. It is often used to describe situations where something is happening with great intensity, speed, or enthusiasm.

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

in full swing

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The phrase "flash in the pan" originated from a type of gun, called a flintlock, in the 17th century. The gun had a small compartment that held a material that would ignite and create a flash of light when the gun was fired. However, sometimes this material would not ignite the main charge of the gun, resulting in no shot being fired. The metaphor of the flash of light without any real action can be applied to many situations where something looks impressive or successful but ultimately fails to achieve anything meaningful or lasting.

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

flash in the pan

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There are a few theories about where the phrase "dark horse" comes from. One theory is that it originated in horse racing, where a dark-colored horse that is not well-known or expected to win a race can surprise everyone and come out on top. Another theory is that the phrase originated in politics, where a little-known candidate could surprise everyone and win an election. This theory suggests that the term "dark horse" was first used in the United States in the mid-1800s in reference to James K. Polk, who was a relatively unknown candidate but ended up winning the presidential election in 1844. Regardless of its exact origin, the phrase became more widely used to describe any person or thing that is unexpected or surprising in terms of their success or abilities.

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

dark horse

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The phrase is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, when wealthy businessmen were often depicted as being overweight and enjoying a life of luxury. The term is now used to criticize anyone who is seen as being greedy or using their wealth and power for personal gain.

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

fat cat

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The origin of the idiom "have it going on" is believed to have originated in the United States during the latter half of the 20th century. It is used to describe a person or situation that is experiencing significant success, progress, or accomplishment in a particular area. It suggests that the person or situation is doing well and has everything they need to continue succeeding.

What is the origin of the idiom "have it going on" and when to use it?

to [have] (got|) it going on

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The term 'late bloomer' has been used since the early 1900s, and its origin is uncertain. Some people believe that the phrase originally came from the world of plants, where it referred to a plant that takes longer than expected to produce flowers or fruit. Later, the term "late bloomer" has become a popular way to describe individuals who achieve success or recognition at a later stage in life, and it is often used as a source of inspiration for those who may feel that they are "behind" in their lives or careers.

What is the origin of the idiom "late bloomer" and when to use it?

late bloomer

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The origin of the idiom "be in luck" is believed to be from the Middle English word "luc", meaning "chance" or "fortune". This word is derived from the Old French word "luc", which also means "chance" or "fortune". The idiom "in luck" is used to describe someone who is fortunate or lucky. The phrase "in luck" is often used in informal conversation to describe a situation where someone is experiencing good fortune or luck.

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

[be] in luck

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The origin of the idiom "king of the hill" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated from children's games where the objective is to reach the top of a hill and maintain that position. The person who reaches the top and stays there the longest is considered the "king" of the hill. The expression is used to refer to a person or group who is in a dominant or superior position, often achieved through competition or struggle.

What is the origin of the idiom "king of the hill" and when to use it?

king of the hill

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The idiom "with flying colors" is believed to have originated in the 16th century. At the time, flags were used to signal victory in battle. A flag that was flying high and undamaged was seen as a sign of victory, while a flag that was damaged or lowered was seen as a sign of defeat. The phrase "with flying colors" came to be used to describe a person or group who had achieved success or victory. It suggests that the person or group has performed exceptionally well and has surpassed expectations.

What is the origin of the idiom " with flying colors" and when to use it?

with flying colors

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The idiom "carry weight" is believed to have originated in the 17th century. At the time, it was common to say that something had "weight" if it was important or significant. The idiomatic expression "carry weight" is often used to describe a person, idea, or influence that holds significant importance or influence in a given situation or context. It suggests that the person or thing has a substantial impact or is taken seriously by others.

What is the origin of the idiom "carry weight" and when to use it?

to [carry] weight

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The phrase "the man" is used to refer to an individual who possesses a high degree of skill or experience in a particular activity or profession. The phrase is believed to have originated in the 19th century, when it was used to refer to a man who was considered to be the best at his job. The phrase has since become more widespread, and it is now used to refer to any person who is considered to be an expert in their field.

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

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Dive into English idioms regarding successful people and things, like "dark horse" and "late bloomer".

English Idioms for "Successful People & Things"