The idiom "take to one's heels" has its origin in the imagery of someone swiftly running away or fleeing a situation. The word "heels" in this context refers to the back part of the foot, which touches the ground when running. It is commonly used in storytelling, informal conversations, or dramatic descriptions to depict situations involving fear, panic, or the urge to escape.

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

to [take] to {one's} heels

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The idiom "the bird has flown" originated from the practice of falconry, where a trained bird of prey, like a falcon, was used to hunt. If the prey managed to escape or fly away before the falcon could catch it, the falconer would say "the bird has flown." This phrase then evolved figuratively to describe situations where a person being sought after has eluded capture or disappeared, conveying the notion that target has escaped.

What is the origin of the idiom "the bird has flown" and when to use it?

the bird has flown

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The idiom "AWOL" originated as a military acronym and stands for "Absent Without Leave." Its exact origin is uncertain, but it is believed to have emerged in the early 19th century within military contexts. The acronym was used to describe the act of a soldier leaving their military duty without proper permission or authorization. It is commonly employed to denote unauthorized absences, desertions, or failures to report for duty within the military hierarchy.

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

AWOL

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The idiom "go south" is believed to have originated in the United States, particularly in the mid-19th century. The phrase likely draws inspiration from the idea of the South being associated with warmer climates and a more laid-back lifestyle. Over time, the phrase has evolved to encompass the broader meaning of leaving to avoid a challenging or undesirable circumstance, regardless of geographical direction.

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

to [go] south

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The idiom "on the run" originated in the late 19th century and originally referred to a criminal or fugitive who was fleeing from the authorities. The phrase has since been used more broadly to describe anyone who is trying to avoid being caught or detected, whether or not they are actually breaking the law. It is typically used to describe a situation where someone is moving quickly and trying to avoid detection or capture. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

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

on the run

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The idiom "go to ground" originated from hunting terms, where it described animals finding safety in their underground homes to avoid being captured. Later, people started using it to describe when someone hides or disappears, like an animal seeking refuge underground. This phrase can be used in storytelling, crime-related contexts, or even metaphorically to describe someone withdrawing from public view or choosing seclusion.

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

to [go] to ground

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The origin of the idiom "give someone the slip" can be traced back to at least the 16th century. The term "slip" in this context refers to the act of slipping away, evading, or eluding someone's pursuit. The phrase likely emerged from the world of thieves and pickpockets, where the ability to escape from pursuers was highly valued. It is often used in informal conversations, storytelling, and even in descriptions of clever strategies used in sports or competitive situations.

What is the origin of the idiom "give someone the slip" and when to use it?

to [give] {sb} the slip

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The idiom "bust a move" emerged in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s, particularly through its usage in hip-hop and pop culture. It can be employed in various situations where someone needs to depart quickly, whether due to discomfort, an emergency, or simply a desire to exit swiftly.

What is the origin of the idiom "bust a move" and when to use it?

to [bust] a move

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The origin of the idiom "make a move" can be traced back to board games and card games. In games like chess and checkers, "making a move" refers to physically moving one of the pieces from its current position on the board to another space. This establishes the basic meaning of taking an action or advancing in some way.Today it is used to refer to someone departing. This phrase evolved gradually through everyday language and communication.

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

to [make] a move

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The idiom "in the wind" emerged organically in the English language based on the metaphorical association between wind and movement. The phrase draws on the idea of someone being swept away or carried off by the wind, suggesting an immediate escape. This expression is often used in narratives involving chases, escapes, or suspenseful scenarios.

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

in the wind

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The idiom "into thin air" can be traced back to William Shakespeare's play "The Tempest," written around 1610-1611. Over time, this phrase gained popularity and became a commonly used expression to describe something disappearing completely without a trace.

What is the origin of the idiom "into thin air" and when to use it?

into thin air

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The origin of the idiom "disappearing act" is often attributed to the world of magic and stage performances. Magicians frequently perform tricks where objects or even themselves seem to vanish or disappear, creating an illusion of magic. This idiom can be used in a variety of contexts, ranging from social scenarios where someone abruptly leaves a gathering or event without explanation, to situations where individuals evade capture or escape without a trace.

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

(disappearing|vanishing) act

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The exact origin of the idiom "moonlight flit" is unclear, but its usage can be traced back to the early 20th century, particularly in British English. It is believed that the phrase may have originated from the practice of tenants leaving their rented accommodations without notice, often in the middle of the night, to avoid paying rent or debts. This phrase is often used in a lighthearted or slightly humorous manner to describe a situation in which someone is trying to secretly leave.

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

to [do] a moonlight flit

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The idiom "go over the wall" probably comes from the idea of escaping by climbing over a wall. It has been used in different situations, like when people escape from prisons or when soldiers climb over walls during battles. It can refer to physically climbing over a wall to get away, like escaping from a prison.

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

to [go] over the wall

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Discover how English idioms like "the bird has flown" and "do a moonlight flit" relate to leaving or escaping in English.

English Idioms for "Leaving or Escaping"