"Smart-ass" is an informal English insult that appeared in the early 20th century, likely in American slang. It combines "smart" (clever) with "ass" (used to indicate foolishness or annoyance) to describe someone who tries to show off their intelligence in a way that irritates others. The term became popular in casual conversation, schools, and workplaces as a way to call out know-it-alls or show-off behavior. It is derogatory but mild compared with more offensive terms, and is often used jokingly among friends, though it can be insulting if applied seriously.

What is the origin of the idiom "smart-ass" and when to use it?

smart-ass

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The idiom "teacher's pet" originated in the late 19th or early 20th century and is used to describe a student who is particularly favored by a teacher or seen as the teacher's favorite. The phrase suggests that the student receives special attention, privileges, or preferential treatment from the teacher, potentially due to their exceptional academic performance or exemplary behavior. However, the term is often used in a slightly derogatory manner to imply that the student may be excessively eager to please the teacher and gain advantages, which can lead to resentment from other students.

What is the origin of the idiom "teacher's pet" and when to use it?

teacher's pet

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The phrase "one's bark is worse than one's bite" is an idiom that means someone's aggressive or threatening behavior or words are more intimidating than their actual actions. The idiom implies that the person's bark, referring to their vocal or verbal expressions, is more fearsome than their bite, which signifies their actual physical or impactful actions. This expression is commonly used to caution others not to be overly intimidated by someone's tough talk or bluster, as their actions may not match their aggressive rhetoric.

What is the origin of the idiom "one's bark is worse than one's bite" and when to use it?

{one's} bark [is] worse than {one's} bite

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The idiom "prim and proper" has its origins in the 18th century and is derived from the words "prim," meaning precise or formal, and "proper," denoting adherence to accepted standards of behavior. It is commonly used to describe individuals who are excessively concerned with maintaining proper appearances, manners, and adherence to social norms and etiquette.

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

prim and proper

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The idiom "Mrs. Grundy" originated from a character named Mrs. Grundy in the play "Speed the Plough" by Thomas Morton, which premiered in 1798. It is used to express the fear or concern of conforming to societal expectations or the pressure to maintain a respectable image. The idiom is employed when discussing the influence of public opinion or the fear of social stigma in shaping one's actions or decisions.

What is the origin of the idiom "Mrs. Grundy" and when to use it?

Mrs. Grundy

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The idiom "be all talk" originated from the concept of someone who talks or boasts about doing something but fails to follow through with action. It is used to describe individuals who lack action or substance behind their words, often indicating a tendency to exaggerate or engage in empty talk.

What is the origin of the idiom "be all talk" and when to use it?

to [be] all talk (and no action|)

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The idiom "backseat driver" originated in the early 20th century, and it metaphorically portrays someone who figuratively sits in the backseat of a car and attempts to control or influence the driver's actions from a position of limited knowledge or authority. It is often used to describe individuals who interfere or meddle in a situation, providing unwanted guidance or opinions without being directly involved or responsible.

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

backseat driver

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The idiom "apple polisher" is derived from the act of polishing an apple to make it shiny and appealing. This idiom is typically used to describe someone who is perceived as ingratiating themselves to authority figures, sometimes in a disingenuous or insincere manner, in order to advance their own interests or gain preferential treatment.

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

apple polisher

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The idiom "feet of clay" originated from the biblical book of Daniel in the Old Testament, where a statue with a head of gold and feet made of a mixture of iron and clay symbolizes a powerful yet flawed kingdom. This idiom suggests that the person or thing in question has a vulnerable or fragile aspect that is not immediately apparent. It can be employed when discussing individuals, institutions, or even objects that initially seem flawless but later reveal their imperfections or shortcomings.

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

feet of clay

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The idiom "all bite and no talk" is a variation of the more commonly used idiom "all bark and no bite." While there isn't a specific origin attributed to "all bite and no talk," it is a play on words that flips the traditional idiom. It is employed when describing individuals who prioritize action over words, often indicating a strong and assertive demeanor. It can be used to commend someone who is proactive and effective in their actions, especially in situations that require swift decision-making or assertiveness.

What is the origin of the idiom "all bite and no talk" and when to use it?

all bark and no bite

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The idiom "toot one's own horn" originated from the act of musicians playing brass instruments and creating a sound by blowing air into the instrument's horn. It is used to describe someone who boasts about their own achievements, skills, or abilities, often in a self-promotional or self-aggrandizing manner. In other words, this expression suggests that the person is seeking attention or praise for themselves and is not modest about their accomplishments.

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

to [toot|blow] {one's} (own|) horn

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The idiom "wise guy" originated in the early 20th century in American slang. It was derived from the term "wiseacre," which referred to a person who was perceived as clever or knowledgeable in a sometimes sarcastic or mocking manner. It It can refer to someone who likes to make witty remarks or engage in playful banter. However, depending on the context, it can also imply that the person is being disrespectful or intentionally causing trouble.

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

wise guy

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The idiom "goody two shoes" originated from a children's story called "The History of Little Goody Two-Shoes" by John Newbery, published in 1765. It describes someone who tries to show off their perfect behavior and moral righteousness to gain personal advantage.

What is the origin of the idiom "goody two shoes" and when to use it?

goody two shoes

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The exact origin of the idiom "smart aleck" is unclear, but it is believed to have emerged in the United States in the mid-19th century. The idiom "smart aleck" refers to a person who often makes snarky or witty remarks, typically intended to show off their intelligence or provoke others. The term carries a negative connotation, suggesting that the person's behavior is seen as arrogant or obnoxious.

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

smart aleck

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Master English idioms regarding pretentiousness, like "teacher's pet" and "feet of clay".

English Idioms for "Pretentious"