The idiom "hold a grudge" has its origins in the Middle Ages when the word "grutch" was used to refer to a complaint or grievance. Over time, "grutch" evolved into "grudge," taking on the meaning of harboring resentment or ill will due to a perceived wrong or injustice. The concept of "holding" onto negative feelings towards someone or something, much like holding onto an object, led to the development of the phrase "hold a grudge." It is used to describe situations where individuals continue to bear ill will or anger over past conflicts, disagreements, or perceived wrongdoings.

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

to [hold|bear|have] a grudge

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The idiom "have it in for someone" is rooted in the idea of holding a grudge or bearing ill will against a specific person. While its exact historical origin is uncertain, it likely developed from the broader concept of personal or ongoing conflicts. It is used to describe instances where someone seems to have a persistent negative attitude or intention toward someone else, often resulting in antagonistic behavior or actions.

What is the origin of the idiom "have it in for someone" and when to use it?

to [have] it in for {sb}

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The origin of the idiom "chip on one's shoulder" is not entirely clear, but it is thought to have originated in the United States in the 19th century. It likely derives from the practice of placing a small piece of wood or a "chip" on one's shoulder as a challenge. In this context, if someone knocked the chip off another person's shoulder, it would provoke a fight. This expression often implies that the person is touchy or quick to take offense, as if they are challenging others to provoke them by knocking off the metaphorical "chip" from their shoulder.

What is the origin of the idiom "chip on one's shoulder" and when to use it?

chip on {one's} shoulder

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The origin of the idiom "bad blood" is rooted in the belief in traditional medicine and folklore that associated certain physical and emotional conditions with the quality of one's blood. It was believed that having "bad blood" could lead to various health problems and even impact a person's temperament, causing them to be irritable or prone to conflict. This expression is commonly used in discussions related to personal relationships, family feuds, rivalries, and even broader societal or political conflicts where there is a history of animosity.

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

bad blood

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The origin of the idiom "get off on the wrong foot" is not precisely known, but it likely stems from the idea that starting a journey or any task with the wrong foot forward would make the entire experience more challenging. The phrase "wrong foot" symbolizes an incorrect or unfavorable start, suggesting that a misstep or negative beginning can set the tone for what follows.  It is employed when someone wants to convey that the initial stages of an endeavor or encounter have been less than ideal, often due to misunderstandings, mistakes, or conflicts.

What is the origin of the idiom "get off on the wrong foot" and when to use it?

to [get|start] off on the wrong foot

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The origin of the idiom "give someone the bird" is believed to date back to ancient Roman times, where an obscene gesture involving the middle finger, known as the "digitus impudicus" or "the impudent finger," was used as an offensive insult. This gesture persisted through various cultures and time periods, eventually evolving into the familiar act of raising the middle finger to convey contempt or rudeness. It often occurs in confrontational or heated situations, such as during arguments, disputes, or road rage incidents.

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

to [give] {sb} the bird

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The origin of the idiom "hate someone's guts" is not definitively documented, but it likely stems from the idea that a person's intestines, specifically the guts, are associated with strong emotions and feelings. It often arises in heated personal conflicts, arguments, or discussions where individuals want to emphasize the intensity of their negative feelings.

What is the origin of the idiom "hate someone's guts" and when to use it?

to [hate] {one's} guts

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The origin of the idiom "have a bone to pick" is believed to be rooted in the literal act of two dogs or animals fighting over a bone. In such a situation, each animal would have its own grievances and concerns related to the bone, leading to a dispute or conflict. It is typically used in informal conversations or written contexts when an individual wishes to address an issue or problem they have with another person or an organization.

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

to [have] a bone to pick with {sb}

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The origin of the idiom "put the knife into someone" likely stems from the imagery of using a sharp knife as a tool for both constructive and destructive purposes. While knives are often used for productive tasks like cutting and cooking, they can also be used for harmful intentions, such as causing injury or harm. It is typically used in situations of conflict, rivalry, or when someone wants to express strong disapproval or resentment towards another person.

What is the origin of the idiom "put the knife into someone" and when to use it?

to [put|stick] the knife (in|into) {sb}

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The origin of the idiom "clear the air" is rooted in the literal concept of freshening or purifying the atmosphere. In ancient times, people believed that bad air, often associated with disease or unpleasant odors, could lead to illness. Therefore, the idea of clearing or freshening the air became symbolic of restoring a healthy or harmonious environment. It is often employed in personal relationships, workplace environments, or even during group discussions and meetings.

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

to [clear] the air

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The origin of the idiom "bury the hatchet" can be traced back to Native American traditions, particularly those of the Iroquois Confederacy. In Native American cultures, a hatchet or war club was a symbol of conflict and violence. When tribes or individuals wanted to signify the end of hostilities and the desire for peace, they would bury their hatchets or war clubs in the ground as a symbolic gesture. This act served as a visual representation of their commitment to resolving disputes and living in harmony. It is often employed when discussing personal disputes, interpersonal conflicts, or even larger-scale conflicts between groups or nations.

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

to [bury] the hatchet

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The origin of the idiom "duke it out" is believed to be associated with the word "duke" being used as a slang term for a fist. This suggests that the phrase originally referred to two individuals settling a dispute or engaging in a physical fight using their fists, hence "duking it out." While the precise historical origins of this expression may be somewhat unclear, it is commonly used in English to describe a situation in which two parties engage in a vigorous or intense conflict or competition to resolve a dispute or determine superiority. It signifies a heated and determined effort to resolve a conflict or determine a winner, and it can be applied to a variety of contexts, from sports competitions and business negotiations to personal disagreements or political debates.

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

to [duke] it out

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Explore English idioms regarding enmity with examples like "duke it out" and "have a bone to pick with".

English Idioms for "Enmity"