The exact origin of the idiom "dance to one's tune" is unclear, but it is believed to have its roots in the world of music and dance. The phrase metaphorically compares the act of obediently following someone's wishes to the synchronized movements of a dance performed in response to a specific tune or melody. It has been in use since at least the 16th century and has since become a well-established idiom in the English language. It is now commonly used in interpersonal relationships, workplace dynamics, or any scenario involving power dynamics.

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

to [dance] to {one's} tune

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The idiom "have someone by the balls" originated as a crude and vulgar metaphor, referring to the physical vulnerability and control that comes from grasping or squeezing someone by their testicles, a sensitive and highly sensitive area. The exact origin of this expression is difficult to pinpoint, as it likely emerged through colloquial usage and evolved over time. It is a vivid and provocative idiom that vividly conveys a sense of power, dominance, or control over another person. It is typically used to describe a situation where one person has gained a significant advantage or control over another, often through leverage or manipulation.

What is the origin of the idiom "have someone by the balls" and when to use it?

to [have] {sb} by the balls

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The idiom "like sheep" has its origin in biblical and literary references. In religious texts, such as the Bible, sheep are frequently used as a metaphor to represent followers or believers who trust and obey their religious leaders or God. The concept of humans being compared to sheep dates back to ancient times, emphasizing the idea of individuals relying on guidance and direction from others. It is often used in discussions about societal behavior, group dynamics, or situations where people unquestioningly follow the crowd or adopt popular beliefs without critical examination.

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

like sheep

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The idiom "one's wish is one's command" originates from a common theme found in various cultures and literature, signifying that those with the power to fulfill wishes do so obediently and promptly. It reflects a recurring theme of granting wishes as a form of service or obedience in folklore and legends. This expression is now often used to convey eagerness and obedience in fulfilling another's wishes or requests.

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

{one's} (wish|word) [is] {one's} command

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The origin of the idiom "have someone in the palm of one's hand" is not precisely known. However, it is thought to have its roots in the ancient practice of palmistry or chiromancy, which involves interpreting the lines and features of a person's palm to gain insight into their character or future. The palm of the hand has long been associated with control, as it is the part of the body used to grasp and manipulate objects. The phrase may have emerged from this association with power and control. It is often used in discussions about power dynamics, manipulation, or personal relationships.

What is the origin of the idiom "have someone in the palm of one's hand" and when to use it?

to [have] {sb} (in the palm|eating out) of {one's} hand

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The origin of the idiom "under one's thumb" is not definitively known, but it has been in use since the 17th century. The phrase likely comes from the image of someone being under the physical control of another person, with the thumb representing dominance and control. The thumb is a powerful digit that can exert pressure and control over objects, and by extension, over people. The phrase may have originated from physical gestures or actions where someone literally presses their thumb upon another person to assert dominance or control.

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

under {one's} thumb

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The origin of the idiom "wrap someone around one's finger" is not precisely known. However, it is likely derived from the action of physically manipulating string or thread around one's finger. The act of wrapping, twisting, or winding something around the finger implies control and manipulation. It is commonly used in discussions about interpersonal relationships, particularly those involving charm, persuasion, or manipulation.

What is the origin of the idiom "wrap someone around one's finger" and when to use it?

to [wrap|twist|wind] {sb} around {one's} (little|) finger

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The idiom "at one's beck and call" originated in the past when social roles and hierarchies were more pronounced. It means that someone is always ready and willing to respond to the requests or commands of another person. It implies a strong level of obedience and availability, indicating that the person being referred to is constantly at the service and disposal of someone else. It is often used to depict relationships with power dynamics, such as employer-employee relationships or situations involving personal assistants or service staff.

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

at  {one's} beck and call

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The idiom "come to heel" originates from dog training and the practice of teaching dogs to walk obediently by their owner's side. In dog training, the "heel" position refers to the dog walking close to the handler's left leg, with the handler's left hand holding the leash. The command "come to heel" is used to instruct the dog to return to this position. It can be used in personal relationships, such as a parent instructing a child to "come to heel" to reinforce discipline or obedience.

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

to [come] to heel

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The idiom "say the word" traces its origin to the concept of verbal commands and their immediate impact. The phrase highlights the anticipation and eagerness of the person addressed, poised and ready to act upon receiving the designated word or directive. It is often used to express a strong desire to help someone or to emphasize one's availability and eagerness to act on their behalf.

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

to [say|give] the word {~noun}

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The idiom "bring someone to heel" comes from dog training, where it means to control and discipline a dog by making it walk obediently by its owner's side. In a broader sense, it refers to exerting authority and making someone behave or follow rules. It can be used in personal relationships, such as parenting, when a parent needs to establish authority and ensure their child's obedience. It is also used in situations involving leadership, management, and governance.

What is the origin of the idiom "bring someone to heel" and when to use it?

to [bring] {sb} to heel

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The exact origin of the idiot "have someone by the short hairs" is uncertain. However, it is believed to have its roots in the idea of physical control or manipulation. The phrase metaphorically refers to having a person grasped or controlled by a sensitive and vulnerable area, such as the short hairs at the back of the neck, which are difficult to escape from without resistance. It is often used when discussing power dynamics or relationships where one individual holds leverage over someone else.

What is the origin of the idiom "have someone by the short hairs" and when to use it?

[have] {sb} by the short hairs

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The origin of the idiom "toe the line" can be traced back to various sports, particularly track and field events. In these sports, competitors are required to position their toes on or behind a designated line before starting a race or performing certain actions, such as long jumps or shot puts. It is often used in professional settings such as workplaces, where employees are expected to follow established protocols, procedures, or company policies.

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

to [toe] the line

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Discover how English idioms like "toe the line" and "come to heel" relate to obedience in English.

English Idioms for "Obedience"