The idiom "catch cold" likely originated from the idea that catching a cold can happen suddenly and unexpectedly, much like how unforeseen problems or difficulties can arise abruptly in life. Over time, extending metaphorically to represent facing unforeseen challenges or difficulties in life.

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

to [catch] (a|) cold

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The origin of the idiom "go to the wall" is not entirely clear, but it has been in use since the 17th century. This idiom is used to describe someone or something that is facing imminent failure, ruin, or destruction, often due to challenging circumstances or overwhelming opposition.

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

to [go] to the wall

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The origin of the idiom "lose one's shirt" is unclear, but it likely evolved from the idea of losing one's clothing, specifically the shirt, which represents a significant and valuable possession. It is used to describe someone who experiences a significant financial loss, often to the point of losing a substantial portion of their wealth or assets.

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

to [lose] {one's} shirt

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The phrase "in the red" originates from the practice of using red ink to indicate negative amounts or deficits in financial records and accounting ledgers. This idiom is used to describe a financial situation where expenses exceed income, resulting in a negative balance or deficit.

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

(in|into) the red

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The idiom "on one's uppers" is believed to have originated in England during the late 19th century. This phrase is used to describe someone who is in a state of extreme poverty, experiencing financial hardship, and lacking basic resources.

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

on {one's} uppers

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The idiom "live hand to mouth" has its origins in the mid-16th century. The phrase describes a way of living in which a person's income is barely enough to cover their basic needs for food and shelter, leaving no surplus for savings or other expenses. It is used to describe a lifestyle or financial situation where someone's income is just enough to meet immediate needs, leaving no room for savings or investment.

What is the origin of the idiom "live hand to mouth" and when to use it?

to [live] (from|) hand to mouth

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The idiom "as poor as a church mouse" dates back to the 17th century. This phrase is used to describe someone who is extremely poor, having very little money or possessions.

What is the origin of the idiom "as poor as a church mouse" and when to use it?

(as|) poor as a church [mouse]

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The phrase "as poor as Job" references the biblical figure Job, known for his great suffering and loss. This idiom is used to describe someone who is extremely poor, experiencing severe financial difficulties or hardship.

What is the origin of the idiom "as poor as Job" and when to use it?

(as|) poor as Job

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The origin of the idiom "not have a bean" is unclear, but it likely originated in the early 20th century. It is used to describe someone who is completely without money or financial resources.

What is the origin of the idiom "not have a bean" and when to use it?

to {not} [have] a bean

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The idiom "on the road" has its origins in the early 20th century. The phrase originally referred to individuals who were traveling or journeying, often as part of their work, entertainment, or seeking opportunities. It is used to describe people who are constantly traveling or living a transient lifestyle, often without a permanent home or shelter.

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

on the road

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The idiom "the breadline" originated in the early 20th century during the Great Depression, which began in 1929 and lasted for several years. This phrase is used to describe the income level or economic threshold below which a person or family is considered to be living in poverty and experiencing financial hardship.

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

the breadline

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This idiom is used to describe someone who is in a state of poverty or financial hardship, often visible through their worn-out or shabby appearance.  It is used to to refer to someone who is experiencing financial hardship or poverty, and their appearance, particularly their worn-out or shabby clothing, reflects their lack of means to afford better attire.

What is the origin of the idiom "out at elbows" and when to use it?

out at (the|) elbows

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The idiom "feel the pinch" has its origins in the early 19th century. The word "pinch" in this context refers to experiencing a sensation of discomfort or pain, similar to when someone pinches you. It is used to describe the feeling of financial strain or difficulty, often due to reduced income or increased expenses.

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

to [feel] the pinch

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The origin of the idiom "out of pocket" can be traced back to the world of finance and accounting. In this context, "pocket" refers to one's personal funds or resources. This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone has incurred an expense or loss and had to use their own money to cover the cost.

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

{num} out of pocket

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The idiom "dry spell" has its origin in the literal meaning of "dry," which refers to a period of little or no rainfall, causing drought conditions. It is used metaphorically to describe a period of time when there is a lack of something expected or desired, such as productivity, profit, success, or any positive outcomes.

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

dry spell

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The idiom "dirt poor" has its origin in the late 19th or early 20th century. The term "dirt" here is used figuratively to denote extreme poverty, suggesting that someone is as poor as the soil or dirt itself. This idiom is used to describe someone who is extremely impoverished, lacking basic necessities, and living in dire financial conditions.

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

dirt poor

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to [wipe] the slate clean

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The idiom "go out of business" is a straightforward expression that originates from the world of commerce and trade. This phrase is used to describe the closure or cessation of operations of a business or company, often due to financial difficulties, lack of profitability, or other reasons.

What is the origin of the idiom "go out of business" and when to use it?

to [go] out of business

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The idiom "on a shoestring" originated in the mid-19th century and is related to the idea of having very limited financial resources. It is used to describe doing something or managing a project with very little money or on a tight budget.

What is the origin of the idiom "on a shoestring" and when to use it?

on a shoestring

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The idiom "flat broke" originated in the early 19th century. The term "flat" in this context means completely or entirely, and "broke" is an informal term for having no money or being penniless. This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone has absolutely no money, is completely financially depleted, and lacks the means to meet their basic needs.

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

flat broke

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The origin of the idiom "a pot to piss in" can be traced back to the 18th century. The phrase  is used to describe someone who is extremely poor and lacking basic necessities, especially when referring to their living conditions or financial situation.

What is the origin of the idiom "a pot to piss in" and when to use it?

a pot to piss in

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Explore English idioms that relate to poverty and financial issues, including "feel the pinch" and "the breadline".

English Idioms for "Poverty & Financial Issues"