The origin of the idiom "on a need-to-know basis" is rooted in military and intelligence contexts. It emerged during the mid-20th century and was initially used to describe the practice of restricting information distribution within these organizations. The principle was that individuals were only provided with information essential to their specific duties or tasks, ensuring that sensitive information was not unnecessarily disclosed. This expression is commonly used to imply that not everyone is entitled to know certain details and that information is provided on a case-by-case basis based on relevance or necessity.

What is the origin of the idiom "on a need-to-know basis" and when to use it?

on a need-to-know basis

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The origin of the phrase "back to front" is not precisely documented, but it is an idiom used to describe a deep and thorough understanding or knowledge of a subject. It suggests that someone is highly familiar with every aspect, detail, or component of that subject, as if they have explored it completely from one end to the other, much like knowing both the front and back of a book.

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

back to front

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The idiom "know something like the back of one's hand" suggests that someone is intimately familiar with a subject or topic, just as they are with the physical features of their own hand. It implies a deep and thorough knowledge of the subject. This expression is used to emphasize how well someone knows or understands something, indicating a high level of familiarity and expertise.

What is the origin of the idiom "know something like the back of one's hand" and when to use it?

to [know] {sth} like the back of {one's} hand

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The idiom "know someone or something inside out" suggests an in-depth understanding or familiarity with a person, object, or subject. It implies knowing every detail, characteristic, or aspect thoroughly, as if one has explored its inner workings. This expression is used to emphasize a high level of knowledge, expertise, or familiarity with someone or something. It signifies that the individual has a comprehensive understanding, leaving no hidden aspects or mysteries.

What is the origin of the idiom "know someone or something inside out" and when to use it?

to [know] {sb/sth} inside out

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The idiom "have something at one's fingertips" originated from the literal sense of being able to physically touch something at the tips of one's fingers. In the late 1800s, references emerged to knowledge that could be "seized" or "touched" instantly, indicating thorough memorization. This drew from the metaphor of literal objects being so close as to almost touch one's fingertips. By the early 1900s, the phrase was commonly used to describe mastery making details felt like extensions of the body. It is now typically used to describe situations where an individual needs to readily access information, skills, or knowledge quickly without delays.

What is the origin of the idiom "have something at one's fingertips" and when to use it?

to [have]  {sth} at  {one's} fingertips

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The idiom "have something down pat" suggests that someone has mastered a skill, task, or knowledge to the point of being able to perform it perfectly and effortlessly. It originates from the idea of having a pattern or process down so well that it feels like it's been imprinted or memorized, akin to having it "pat" or perfectly mastered. This phrase is commonly used to indicate a high level of proficiency or expertise in a particular area, emphasizing that the person is highly skilled and knowledgeable about the subject or task at hand.

What is the origin of the idiom "have something down pat" and when to use it?

to [have|know] {sth} down pat

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The idiom "up to speed" likely originates from the world of transportation and speed measurement. This phrase originally referred to reaching a desired velocity or pace, particularly in the context of vehicles or machinery.. It can now be used in both formal and informal contexts to indicate that someone is well-informed and understands the current state of affairs or has caught up with the necessary knowledge or skills.

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

up to speed

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The idiom "the ins and outs of something" refers to a comprehensive understanding of a particular subject, including all its details, complexities, and nuances. The origin of this phrase is derived from the idea that "ins" represent the inner or intricate aspects, while "outs" pertain to the outer or surface aspects of a subject or situation. Together, it signifies a thorough knowledge of a topic, situation, or process. This phrase is used to convey that someone possesses a deep and comprehensive understanding of a subject or can navigate through complex situations with ease, having explored all facets of it.

What is the origin of the idiom "the ins and outs of something" and when to use it?

the ins and outs of {sth}

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The idiom "stand on the shoulders of giants" has its origins in a letter written by Sir Isaac Newton to fellow scientist Robert Hooke in 1676. In this letter, Newton wrote, "If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of Giants." Today, the idiom is used to acknowledge that progress and success are often the result of the work, discoveries, or wisdom of those who have paved the way. It emphasizes the importance of respecting and benefiting from the knowledge and achievements of those who have come before us.

What is the origin of the idiom "stand on the shoulders of giants" and when to use it?

to [stand] on the shoulders of giants

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The idiom "a thing or two" can be traced back to the English language in the early 19th century. It is believed to have originated from the expression "to know a thing or two," which means to have acquired knowledge or expertise in a particular area. This phrase is used when someone wants to convey that they have some understanding or expertise in a given matter, often implying that they are not completely ignorant or inexperienced.

What is the origin of the idiom "a thing or two" and when to use it?

a thing or two

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The origin of the idiom "know the score" is not precisely documented, as idiomatic expressions often evolve naturally within a language. However, the phrase is believed to have originated from the world of sports, specifically from the practice of keeping track of the points or scores during a game or competition. Knowing the score in a sporting event meant being aware of the current state of the game and understanding which team or player was leading. Today, this phrase is often used to indicate that someone is informed or knowledgeable about a particular situation or topic. It implies that the person is not easily fooled or misled and understands the reality of a given situation.

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

to [know] the score

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The idiom "street smarts" originates from American English and is derived from the idea of being knowledgeable and experienced in the ways of the streets or urban environments. It contrasts with "book smarts" or academic intelligence, emphasizing practical knowledge and the ability to navigate and make wise decisions in everyday life situations. This expression is used to refer to a person's ability to understand and deal with the challenges and risks of everyday life, particularly in urban or complex social settings. It implies a combination of practical wisdom, common sense, and the ability to read people and situations effectively.

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

street smarts

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Discover how English idioms like "back to front" and "the ins and outs of" relate to knowledge in English.

English Idioms for "Knowledge"