The idiom "get one's act together" originated in the United States in the mid-20th century. The exact origin of the expression is unclear, as it evolved through informal and colloquial usage. It is often used when someone is perceived as being disorganized, lacking focus, or under performing and needs to make positive changes.

What is the origin of the idiom "get one's act together" and when to use it?

to [get] {one's} act together

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The origin of the idiom "pull oneself together" can be traced back to the English language, but its exact origin is unclear. The expression has been in use for quite some time and has become a common idiom in the English lexicon. It likely emerged from the concept of physically bringing different parts or elements together to form a cohesive whole. It is commonly used when someone is experiencing moments of distress, anxiety, grief, or overwhelming emotions and needs to gather themselves to face the situation with clarity and resilience.

What is the origin of the idiom "pull oneself together" and when to use it?

to [pull] {oneself} together

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The idiom "get a hold of oneself" has its origin in English and dates back to the mid-19th century. The word "hold" in this context refers to gaining control or regaining composure. The expression emphasizes the need to regain control over one's emotions, actions, or thoughts in challenging or overwhelming situations. It is typically used in various contexts or occasions where there is a need to emphasize regaining composure, self-control, or emotional stability. I

What is the origin of the idiom "get a hold of oneself" and when to use it?

to [get] a hold of {oneself}

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The origin of the idiom "get one's shit together" is rooted in colloquial and informal language, making it challenging to pinpoint a specific origin. It is believed to have emerged in American English in the mid-20th century, gaining popularity in the counterculture movements of the 1960s and 1970s. The expression likely evolved as a metaphorical way of describing the need to have personal matters, responsibilities, and emotions in order. This expression is often used to describe individuals who demonstrate competence, stability, and a clear direction in their lives. It can be used in conversations about personal development, professional achievements, financial stability, or overall life management.

What is the origin of the idiom "get one's shit together" and when to use it?

to [get] {one's} shit together

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The idiom "bite one's tongue" has its origins in the English language and dates back to at least the 16th century. The expression alludes to the literal act of biting down on one's own tongue to prevent oneself from speaking. It is commonly employed when someone wants to refrain from speaking their mind, opinions, or criticisms in order to maintain peace, avoid conflicts, or prevent hurting others' feelings.

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

to [bite|hold] {one's} tongue

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The origin of the idiom "get one's ducks in a row" can be traced back to the early 20th century in the United States. The exact origin is uncertain, but it likely emerged from the imagery of a mother duck leading her ducklings in a straight line or row. It is commonly used in professional settings, such as project management, event planning, or business operations, to emphasize the need for careful organization and attention to detail.

What is the origin of the idiom "get one's ducks in a row" and when to use it?

[get|have] {one's} ducks in a row

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The idiom "Button one's lip" or "Button your lip" has its origin in the early 20th century. The word "button" here means to fasten or close, and "lip" refers to the mouth or lips. The idiom suggests the action of closing or fastening one's lips together, symbolizing keeping them shut and not speaking or revealing something. It is used to advise someone to remain silent or keep a secret. It This idiom can be used in various occasions, such as when someone is tempted to reveal classified information, when discussing private matters that should remain undisclosed, or when urging someone to refrain from sharing gossip or spreading rumors.

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

to [button|zip] {one's} [lip]

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The idiom "in hand" originated from Old English and has its roots in the literal sense of physically holding or grasping something in one's hand. The word "hand" has been used in various languages throughout history to signify control, power, or possession. It is frequently used in professional settings, such as business, project management, or organizational contexts, to indicate that a task or project is under control and progressing well.

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

in hand

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The origin of the idiom "out of one's system" is not definitively documented, but it is believed to have originated in colloquial English during the 19th or early 20th century. The phrase draws on the idea of removing or expelling something from within oneself, akin to purging or releasing it. It is commonly used in situations where individuals feel a strong urge to let something out or alleviate an inner tension. This could include venting emotions through crying, shouting, or talking, or engaging in activities to satisfy a particular curiosity or desire.

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

out of {one's} [system]

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The idiomatic phrase "keep a lid on something" has its origins in the United States in the late 19th/early 20th century, deriving from the literal notion of securely fastening a tight-fitting lid onto a container to prevent its contents from spilling out, which then developed figuratively into referring to keeping information contained or suppressed, as evidenced by some early newspaper citations from the late 1800s discussing keeping secrets or scandals tightly guarded. It is frequently used in political, legal, and workplace settings to describe efforts to prevent damaging leaks, skeletons in the closet from being aired out, or potential scandals from emerging.

What is the origin of the idiom "keep a lid on something" and when to use it?

to [keep] a lid on {sth}

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The idiom "clean up one's act" originated from theater in the 1800s, when messy improvised acts were common. As plays became more professional, directors demanded neat appearances, strict adherence to scripts, and tighter control over performances. They told disordered actors to clean up their acts by disciplining behavior and appearances to meet professional standards through preparation and conformity. It is generally used when an individual must overhaul existing conduct, attitudes, or lifestyle choices that are subpar or problematic through committed self-improvement and discipline.

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

to [clean] up {one's} act

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The idiom "a straight face" can be traced back to the early 19th century. It derives from the literal meaning of "straight," which refers to something that is not crooked or bent, suggesting a neutral and unexpressive appearance. The expression gained popularity in English-speaking cultures as a way to describe maintaining a neutral facial expression, especially in situations where one might normally show a smile or frown. It is used when individuals need to keep their composure or hide their true feelings, often in contexts involving humor, irony, or situations that might cause amusement.

What is the origin of the idiom "a straight face" and when to use it?

a straight face

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to [pour] oil on troubled waters

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The idiom "take something in stride" originated from horse racing, describing a jockey's ability to maintain the horse's stride despite obstacles or variations in terrain. It is often employed to encourage a resilient and composed attitude when faced with adversity.

What is the origin of the idiom "take something in stride" and when to use it?

to [take] {sth} in stride

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The origin of the idiom "keeping something in proportion" is rooted in the English language and its usage to convey the idea of maintaining a proper relationship or balance between different elements. It is used in various contexts and occasions to emphasize the importance of maintaining balance or appropriate relationships between different elements.

What is the origin of the idiom "keeping something in proportion" and when to use it?

to [keep]  {sth} in proportion

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The origin of the idiom "keep a level head" can be traced back to nautical terminology. In sailing, a "level head" referred to the situation where a ship's compass remained level and steady despite the vessel's movement on the water. It symbolized stability, balance, and an accurate sense of direction. It is often invoked during times of stress, conflict, or uncertainty, such as in high-pressure work environments, intense negotiations, or personal crises.

What is the origin of the idiom "keep a level head" and when to use it?

to [keep] a level head

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The origin of the idiom "collecting one's thoughts" can be traced back to the Middle English period in the 14th century. The word "collect" in this context comes from the Latin word "collegere," which means "to gather." It is used in various contexts and occasions where individuals need to regain mental focus, organize their thinking, and gather their ideas. It is commonly employed in situations that require clarity of thought and effective communication.

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

to [collect] {one's} thoughts

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The idiom "mind over matter" can be attributed to the philosophy of idealism, which dates back to ancient Greece. However, the specific origin of the phrase itself is uncertain. It gained prominence in the 19th century through various philosophical and metaphysical teachings. It is often used in situations that require mental resilience, such as in sports, where athletes push themselves beyond physical exhaustion through sheer determination.

What is the origin of the idiom "mind over matter" and when to use it?

mind over matter

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The idiom "get a grip on oneself" comes from the literal meaning of gripping something firmly for support or stability. Its origins trace back to the need for sailors to physically "get a grip" on rails or ropes when ships rocked in rough seas so they could stand steady on deck during storms. It is typically used when someone has become overly emotional, irrational, panicked, or out of control in some way due to circumstances or events that have caused them psychological imbalance. It implies the need to regain composure and clear-headedness.

What is the origin of the idiom "get a grip on oneself" and when to use it?

to [get] a grip on {oneself}

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The origin of the idiom "keep one's head" can be traced back to medieval times, specifically to the sport of jousting. During jousting tournaments, knights would wear helmets with visors to protect their heads. To stay safe and maintain visibility, they had to keep their heads upright and not lower them in fear or anticipation. This practice of "keeping one's head" in jousting eventually became a metaphor for maintaining composure and courage in the face of danger or adversity. It is commonly used in high-pressure situations, such as emergencies, crises, or conflicts, where quick decision-making and level-headedness are essential.

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

to [keep] {one's} [head]

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Discover how English idioms like "mind over matter" and "keep a level head" relate to being under control in English.

English Idioms for "Under Control"