The idiom "at the back of one's mind" is derived from the idea that our thoughts and concerns occupy different positions in our mental space. The "back of one's mind" symbolizes a less prominent or less actively considered area of thought compared to the forefront of one's mind, where immediate or pressing matters reside. This expression is used to describe thoughts, ideas, or concerns that are not at the forefront of someone's thinking but are still present and lingering in their consciousness. It often implies that these thoughts are not immediately obvious or the primary focus of one's attention.

What is the origin of the idiom "at the back of one's mind" and when to use it?

(at|in) the back of {one's} mind

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The idiom "wake up and smell the coffee" likely originated as a way to encourage someone to become more aware, alert, or realistic about a situation. Coffee is known for its strong and distinct aroma, and the act of smelling it can jolt someone awake or make them more alert, both physically and mentally. By extension, the phrase urges someone to become more aware of their surroundings, the truth of a situation, or the need to take action. It is often used to refer to the person has been inattentive, complacent, or overly optimistic for an extended period of time.

What is the origin of the idiom "wake up and smell the coffee" and when to use it?

to [wake] up and [smell] the coffee

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The idiom "with one's eyes open" has its origins in the literal meaning of the words. It implies being fully aware, alert, and conscious while making a decision or taking an action. This expression is used to describe a situation in which someone is making a decision or taking a risk fully aware of the potential consequences and challenges. It signifies that the person is not acting blindly but is making an informed choice based on knowledge or awareness.

What is the origin of the idiom "with one's eyes open" and when to use it?

with {one's} eyes open

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The idiom "lose touch" likely originates from the idea that physical contact or connection is often associated with awareness and understanding. It is often used to describe a situation in which someone becomes unaware of or uninformed about a person, group, or subject matter with which they were once familiar or connected.

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

to [lose] touch

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The idiom "lose sight of someone or something" likely originated from the literal act of losing visual contact with a person or object. In everyday life, when someone or something moves out of our line of sight, we can no longer see or perceive them. This physical concept was adapted metaphorically to describe situations where people become distracted or fail to prioritize someone or something important, causing them to figuratively "lose sight" of it.

What is the origin of the idiom "lose sight of someone or something" and when to use it?

to [lose] sight of {sb/sth}

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The origin of the idiom "with one's eyes closed" is straightforward. It derives from the literal act of closing one's eyes, which naturally impairs vision and awareness. This idiom is typically used to describe someone who is not fully aware or informed about a situation. It conveys the idea that a person is proceeding with little to no knowledge or understanding of the risks, consequences, or details involved in a particular matter.

What is the origin of the idiom "with one's eyes closed" and when to use it?

with {one's} eyes (closed|shut)

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The origin of the idiom "have one's number" is derived from the idea that everyone has a unique telephone number. In the context of this phrase, it means having someone figured out or knowing their true nature or intentions. This expression is used to convey that someone understands another person very well, often implying that they can predict their behavior or motives.

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

to [have] {one's} number

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The idiom "ivory tower" traces its origins to the 19th century and is believed to have been popularized by the French poet Alfred de Vigny. It refers to the idea of an isolated, remote, and often unrealistic place where intellectuals, scholars, or academics engage in pursuits that are disconnected from the practical concerns and realities of everyday life. The term "ivory" in the phrase symbolizes a sense of purity, privilege, and detachment from the world. This expression is often used to criticize or describe individuals, particularly intellectuals or academics, who are perceived as being out of touch with the real world or as having impractical and idealistic views.

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

ivory tower

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The origin of the idiom "away with the fairies" is somewhat unclear, but it likely draws on folklore and mythology. Fairies have long been associated with enchantment, fantasy, and otherworldly experiences. The phrase is believed to have emerged in the late 19th or early 20th century and gained popularity in the British Isles. This expression is used to describe someone who is not paying attention, lost in daydreams, or seems disconnected from reality. It implies that the person is preoccupied with their own thoughts or fantasies to the point of being unaware of their surroundings or responsibilities.

What is the origin of the idiom "away with the fairies" and when to use it?

away with the fairies

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The idiom "a window to the world" likely originated from the literal meaning of a window as an opening in a wall that allows you to see outside. It has been used metaphorically to describe various means of gaining insight, knowledge, or a broader perspective on the world. This expression is used to refer to something that provides you with a view, insight, or understanding of the world at large. It can describe a physical window with a scenic view, but it is often used in a broader sense to talk about sources of information, experiences, or opportunities that broaden one's horizons.

What is the origin of the idiom "a window to the world" and when to use it?

a window (to|into|on|onto) the world

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The idiom "all there" has its origins in the idea of mental capacity or intelligence. The word "there" in this context implies the mental state or condition of a person. It likely evolved from earlier idiomatic expressions that used "there" to refer to a person's mental faculties, such as being "all there" or "not all there." This phrase is typically used to describe someone's mental or cognitive state. When someone is said to be "all there," it means that they are mentally sound, alert, intelligent, and in full possession of their mental faculties.

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

all there

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Master English idioms regarding awareness or unawareness, like "lose touch" and "away with the fairies".

English Idioms for "Awareness or Unawareness"