The idiom "from the horse's mouth" has its origins in horse racing, particularly in the practice of obtaining reliable information about a racehorse's condition and prospects directly from the horse's trainer or owner. To get accurate and trustworthy information about a horse, one would go directly to the source, which is the person most knowledgeable about the horse's capabilities and performance.

What is the origin of the idiom "from the horse's mouth" and when to use it?

(straight|) from the horse's mouth

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The idiom "blow the whistle on someone or something" has its roots in sports and referee practices. In sports, referees use a whistle to signal a foul or violation. The phrase likely evolved from this practice, as "blowing the whistle" on someone or something means exposing wrongdoing or calling attention to improper behavior, just as a referee calls attention to rule violations during a game. This expression is used to describe the act of revealing or reporting unethical, illegal, or inappropriate activities, typically within an organization, institution, or group.

What is the origin of the idiom "blow the whistle on someone or something" and when to use it?

to [blow] the whistle on {sb/sth}

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The idiom "hear something through the grapevine" has its roots in the image of information spreading like wildfire through a network of interconnected grapevines or vines. It was popularized in the 19th century, and its precise origin is somewhat unclear.  This idiomatic expression is used when someone learns about a piece of information or gossip indirectly, often through unofficial or informal channels rather than through direct communication. It implies that the information has been passed from person to person, similar to how news might spread through a network of grapevines. It is commonly used in informal conversations.

What is the origin of the idiom "hear something through the grapevine" and when to use it?

to [hear] {sth} (through|on) the grapevine

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The idiom "in the loop" originated from the world of aviation. In aviation, pilots flying in a loop formation had to maintain precise coordination to avoid collisions or accidents. Being "in the loop" meant being part of this coordinated group, aware of the flight plan and communication among the pilots. This phrase is used to describe someone who is informed, involved, or included in a particular group or project where important decisions and information are shared. It implies that the person is well-connected and has access to valuable information. It is often used in professional and business contexts.

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

in the loop

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The idiom "keep on top" likely draws its origin from the idea of staying ahead or maintaining control over a situation. This phrase is used to suggest the importance of remaining vigilant, proactive, and in control of a situation. It often implies staying ahead of potential issues or challenges, whether in personal or professional contexts.

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

to [keep] on top

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The idiom "keep someone posted" has its roots in postal communication and has been in use since at least the 19th century. In the past, letters and updates were sent through the postal service, and people eagerly awaited news from distant friends and family. This expression is used to indicate the act of keeping someone informed or up-to-date about a specific matter or situation. It implies a commitment to providing ongoing information as the situation develops, ensuring that the person remains well-informed.

What is the origin of the idiom "keep someone posted" and when to use it?

to [keep] {sb} posted

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The idiom "put someone in the picture" likely has its origins in visual or cinematic metaphors. In this context, "the picture" refers to a situation, plan, or scenario. The idiom emerged in the early to mid-20th century when cinema and photography were popular forms of entertainment and communication. It is often used to describe the act of providing someone with all the necessary information or details about a particular situation, plan, or event to ensure they have a comprehensive understanding.

What is the origin of the idiom "put someone in the picture" and when to use it?

to [put] {sb} in the picture

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The idiom "spread like wildfire" likely originated from observations of how wildfires rapidly and uncontrollably expand and consume large areas of land.  This expression is used to highlight the speed and wide reach of the spread of something, particularly rumors or news, much like how a wildfire can quickly engulf an entire area.

What is the origin of the idiom "spread like wildfire" and when to use it?

to [spread] like wildfire

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The idiom "up on something" likely derives from the idea of gaining a higher or more complete understanding of a particular subject or topic. The use of "up" in this context implies an increase in knowledge or familiarity. While the precise origin of this idiom is not documented, it has been in use in the English language since 19th century. This expression is used to convey a person's familiarity, knowledge, or awareness of a specific subject, topic, or issue. It indicates that someone is well-informed, educated, or experienced in that area.

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

up on {sth}

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The idiom "first hand" originated from the literal meaning of the words. It describes experiencing something directly, without any intermediary or second-party involvement. It is used to emphasize that information or an experience is obtained directly, without any intermediaries or intermediation. It signifies a direct and unmediated connection to the subject matter.

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

first hand

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The idiom "by word of mouth" has ancient origins and reflects the traditional way information was passed from person to person in oral cultures before the widespread use of written language. It dates back to a time when people relied on spoken communication to convey news, stories, and knowledge. This expression is used to describe the transmission of information, rumors, stories, or knowledge through spoken communication rather than through written documents or formal channels.

What is the origin of the idiom "by word of mouth" and when to use it?

(by|through) (the|) word of mouth

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The origin of the idiom "heads-up" is rooted in early 20th-century military and aviation terminology. It was initially used by military personnel to warn about incoming threats, such as enemy aircraft or artillery shells. The phrase likely originated from the idea that soldiers and aviators needed to keep their heads up and be alert to potential dangers from above. This expression is commonly used to provide someone with advance notice, warning, or information about a situation or development that requires their attention or action. It is often used to alert someone to be vigilant, prepared, or cautious regarding something that may affect them or their plans.

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

heads-up

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The origin of the idiom "a little bird" is rooted in the concept of birds as messengers or carriers of information. Throughout history, birds have been associated with secrets, whispers, and the transmission of news. In various cultures and folklore, birds are often depicted as symbols of communication or as intermediaries between humans and the divine. It is often used when sharing gossip, rumors, or intriguing details without revealing the specific person who provided the information.

What is the origin of the idiom "a little bird told me" and when to use it?

a little bird

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The idiom "one's ears are burning" has its roots in ancient superstitions and folklore. It was believed that when a person's ears felt hot or tingled, it was a sign that someone was talking about them or mentioning their name. This belief likely originated from various cultures' superstitions about bodily sensations being linked to supernatural or spiritual occurrences. This expression is used when someone suspects or feels that they are the subject of a conversation or that others are talking about them. It can be used in a lighthearted or joking manner, and it often implies that the person is curious or concerned about what is being said.

What is the origin of the idiom "one's ears are burning" and when to use it?

{one's} ears [are] burning

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The idiom "Chinese whispers" also known as "the telephone game" in some regions, likely originated from the practice of passing down oral stories, messages, or information in a chain-like manner. It was popularized in the 20th century and is often used to describe a situation where information or a message gets distorted or changed as it is passed from one person to another, especially when communicated in a whispered or secretive manner. This phrase is often used to describe a situation where information or a message is inaccurately transmitted from person to person, often resulting in significant changes or misunderstandings by the time it reaches the final recipient.

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

Chinese whispers

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The idiom "hot off the press" has its origins in the printing industry. In the days of manual typesetting and printing, newly printed materials, such as newspapers, books, or pamphlets, would come directly from the printing press and be physically warm to the touch due to the heat generated during the printing process. This warmth signified that the material was freshly printed and had just been produced. It is used to describe information or news that is very recent, up-to-date, and has just been released or made available to the public.

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

hot off the press

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The idiom "out of touch" likely originated from the physical sense of being in contact or not with a particular object or surface. In this case, "touch" is used metaphorically to represent being in contact with current events, trends, or knowledge. It is used to describe someone who lacks awareness, understanding, or knowledge of current trends, developments, or the prevailing attitudes of society. It suggests that the person is disconnected from what is happening around them, especially in terms of contemporary issues, popular culture, or technological advancements.

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

out of touch

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The idiom "paper trail" originates from the literal use of the word "trail" to refer to a track or path, and "paper" in this context signifies the written documentation that leaves a trace or path of evidence. The term has been in use since at least the early 20th century. This expression is used to describe a series of documents, records, or written evidence that chronicles a sequence of events or transactions.

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

paper trail

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The idiom "fishing expedition" is derived from the literal act of fishing, where individuals cast their lines into the water with the hope of catching fish. In this context, a "fishing expedition" refers to an exploratory or speculative venture in which someone is searching for something without a clear plan or specific target. The term has been used figuratively since at least the mid-20th century. This expression is often used to describe an investigation, inquiry, or search that lacks a clear purpose or reasonable cause. It implies that the effort is akin to casting a wide net or conducting a search without knowing precisely what one is looking for, and it may be seen as speculative or exploratory. In legal contexts, it can refer to a request for information or documents that appears overly broad or made with the intent to harass rather than to obtain specific relevant information.

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

fishing expedition

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Explore English idioms that relate to news and information, including "in the loop" and "keep on top".

English Idioms for "News & Information"