The idiom "fever pitch" originated in the realm of sports, specifically in reference to the game of cricket. It was first used in the mid-19th century in England to describe the state of excitement and intense enthusiasm among spectators during a cricket match. The phrase is used in various contexts and occasions to describe situations of intense excitement, fervor, or agitation. It is commonly employed when referring to sports events, such as a championship match or a highly anticipated game, where the atmosphere is charged with enthusiastic fans, high emotions, and a sense of intense competition.

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

fever pitch

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The origin of the idiom "get one's pulse racing" can be traced to the physiological response of the human body to excitement or arousal. The concept of measuring one's pulse or heart rate has long been associated with gauging physical and emotional states. This phrase can be used metaphorically to describe any situation or experience that elicits strong emotions, anticipation, or a sense of thrill.

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

to [get|set] {one's} [pulse|heart] racing

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The idiom "like there's no time tomorrow" is not tied to a specific origin or historical event. It is an idiomatic expression that has evolved over time to convey a sense of urgency and the importance of acting promptly. The phrase draws upon the concept of limited time and the idea that one should make the most of the present moment without assuming there will be ample time in the future. This expression is often used in work or business settings to encourage productivity, efficient decision-making, and maximizing available time. It can also be used in personal development contexts, motivating individuals to make the most of their time, pursue their goals with determination, and not postpone important actions or decisions.

What is the origin of the idiom "make a go of something" and when to use it?

like there's no time tomorrow

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The idiom "pull one's hair out" is believed to have originated from the physical act of frustration or despair. The action of pulling one's own hair out is a common behavior observed in individuals experiencing extreme stress, anxiety, or frustration. The phrase likely emerged as a metaphorical expression to describe the mental or emotional state of someone who is deeply agitated or overwhelmed.

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

to [pull|tear] {one's} hair out

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The origin of the idiom "on pins and needles" can be traced back to the 18th century, specifically to the practice of cushioning furniture with pins and needles. During that time, upholsterers would use pins and needles to secure padding or stuffing in furniture, such as chairs and cushions. This phrase is commonly employed when waiting for important news, results, or outcomes, such as waiting for the results of a job interview, a medical diagnosis, or the announcement of a competition winner.

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

on pins and needles

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The phrase "like a cat on a hot tin roof" originated from Tennessee Williams' Pulitzer Prize-winning play, "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof," which was first performed in 1955. The phrase gained popularity through the play's success and has since become a widely recognized idiom used in various contexts to depict someone who is highly agitated, nervous, or restless. The image of a cat on a hot surface, constantly moving and seeking relief, serves as a metaphor for the restless and uneasy state of the individual being described.

What is the origin of the idiom "like a cat on a hot tin roof" and when to use it?

like a cat on a hot tin roof

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The idiom "have butterflies in one's stomach" is believed to have originated from the physical sensations that people experience when they are anxious or nervous. The fluttering feeling in the stomach, similar to the fluttering of butterfly wings, is commonly associated with heightened emotions and anticipation. This phrase is used to convey a sense of nervous anticipation, acknowledging the emotional and physical reactions that can accompany important events or situations.

What is the origin of the idiom "have butterflies in one's stomach" and when to use it?

to [have|get] butterflies in {one's} [stomach]

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The origin of the idiom "one's heart in one's mouth" can be traced back to ancient Greek and Roman literature. This phrase is often used in storytelling, literature, and everyday conversations to convey a sense of heightened tension or anticipation, such as before a crucial exam, during a thrilling sports match, when confronting a frightening situation, or even during suspenseful moments in movies or books.

What is the origin of the idiom "one's heart in one's mouth" and when to use it?

{one's} [heart] in {one's} mouth

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The origin of the phrase "panic stations" can be traced back to naval operations and the use of signaling systems on ships. In the past, ships used a system of bells and signals to communicate important messages to the crew. It is often employed to depict high-pressure scenarios where individuals or groups find themselves in critical or dangerous circumstances. The phrase is also commonly used in sports and competitive events to describe intense moments where teams or individuals must act decisively to turn the tide in their favor.

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

panic stations

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The idiom "have ants in one's pants" originated in the United States, particularly in the early to mid-20th century. It is believed to have emerged as a colloquial expression within American English. The imagery of ants crawling inside one's pants was used figuratively to depict a state of restlessness, agitation, or impatience. The phrase is commonly used when someone is eagerly awaiting a particular event or outcome, such as before a performance, a job interview, or the start of a vacation. It can also be used to describe a person's general energetic or hyperactive behavior, especially when they are unable to sit or stand still for an extended period.

What is the origin of the idiom "have ants in one's pants" and when to use it?

to [have] ants in {one's} pants

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The origin of the meaning of "meet trouble halfway" can be traced back to times when communities had to rely on themselves. Those who focused too much on imagining troubles before knowing if they would truly occur were seen as "meeting trouble halfway." Over time, as communities needed a balance of preparation and staying focused on real issues, this phrase came to describe people with a tendency to anxiously anticipate difficulties before determining if they are really a threat.

What is the origin of the idiom "meet trouble halfway" and when to use it?

to [meet] trouble halfway

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The phrase "hot to trot" is believed to have originated in horse racing or equestrian contexts. In horse racing, a horse that is "hot to trot" is eager and ready to run, displaying a high level of energy and enthusiasm. The phrase draws upon the imagery of a horse that is keen to begin the race and eager to perform at its best. It is commonly used in situations where individuals are enthusiastic and motivated, expressing their readiness to take action or seize an opportunity.

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

hot to trot

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The idiom "go postal" originated in the United States in the 1990s. It gained prominence due to a series of highly publicized incidents involving acts of violence committed by postal workers. These incidents occurred in various locations across the United States, and the media coverage surrounding them popularized the term "going postal." The phrase specifically refers to instances where individuals employed by the U.S. This phrase is used in informal contexts to describe a situation or behavior involving an extreme and violent outburst or display of anger. It is typically employed when referring to instances of workplace violence or when someone exhibits uncontrollable rage or aggression.

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

to [go] postal

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The origin of the idiom "like a chicken with its head cut off" can be traced back to the practice of slaughtering chickens for meat. After decapitation, a chicken's body can exhibit spasmodic movements due to nerve impulses and residual brain activity. This observation led to the development of such idiomatic expression. This expression can be used in various contexts, such as describing someone rushing around in a state of confusion, a team or organization dealing with a sudden crisis or unexpected event, or a person reacting impulsively without a clear plan.

What is the origin of the idiom "like a chicken with its head cut off" and when to use it?

like a chicken with its head cut off

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The origin of the idiom "shiver down one's spine" likely stems from the physiological response of shivering or experiencing chills when one feels cold or frightened. The sensory nerves along the spine can transmit signals that produce a shivering sensation, and this physical reaction is often associated with strong emotions such as fear, excitement, or anticipation. It can also be used to describe intense moments of excitement or awe, such as experiencing a breathtaking performance or witnessing a remarkable event.

What is the origin of the idiom "shiver down one's spine" and when to use it?

[shiver|chill] (down|up) {one's} spine

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The origin of the idiom "come apart at the seams" can be traced back to the literal sense of garments or fabrics unraveling at the seams. When the stitching holding the seams together fails, the fabric begins to separate or fall apart. This literal usage of the phrase has been in existence since at least the 19th century. This expression is commonly used in discussions about the deterioration of relationships, unraveling of carefully constructed plans, or the collapse of structures or systems that were once thought to be stable.

What is the origin of the idiom "come apart at the seams" and when to use it?

to [come|fall] apart at the seams

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The origin of the idiom"come apart at the seams" can be attributed to the literal sense of garments or fabrics unraveling along the seams. When the sewing or stitching holding the seams together fails, the fabric starts to separate, causing the item to come apart. This literal usage of the phrase has been in existence since at least the 19th century. This expression is frequently used in discussions about the deterioration of relationships, the unraveling of carefully constructed plans, or the collapse of structures or systems that were once thought to be stable.

in a stew

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The exact origin of the phrase "have a cow" is uncertain, but it is believed to have emerged in the United States during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s. This expression is commonly used in casual conversations, humorous exchanges, and popular culture references. It can be used to highlight moments of frustration, surprise, or outrage, often in a playful or humorous manner.

What is the origin of the idiom "have a cow" and when to use it?

to [have] a cow

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Discover how English idioms like "come apart at the seams" and "on pins and needles" relate to anticipation in English.

English Idioms for "Anticipation"