The origin of the idiom "bring something to light" is rooted in the metaphorical association between light and knowledge or awareness. Light has long been associated with illumination, clarity, and understanding. The idiom likely emerged from this metaphorical connection, reflecting the human desire to uncover or reveal hidden or obscured information. It is used in various contexts and occasions where there is a need to reveal or make known previously hidden or unknown information, facts, or truths.

What is the origin of the idiom "bring something to light" and when to use it?

to [bring] {sth} to light

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The origin of the idiom "come home to someone" is not easily traceable, but it likely emerged from the metaphorical association between the concept of "home" and a deep sense of personal understanding or realization. "Home" symbolizes a place of comfort, familiarity, and belonging, where one feels secure and truly knows themselves. It is often used in situations where someone has been unaware, oblivious, or lacking in insight about a particular matter or truth.

What is the origin of the idiom "come home to someone" and when to use it?

to [come] home to {sb}

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The origin of the idiom "come to light" is rooted in the metaphorical association between light and knowledge or awareness. Light has long been symbolically linked to illumination, clarity, and understanding. It is now commonly used when new evidence, facts, or truths are unveiled, disclosed, or exposed.

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

to [come] to light

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The origin of the idiom "get wind of something" is uncertain, but it likely stems from the association between the movement of air and the transmission of information. The phrase draws upon the metaphor of wind as a carrier of news or rumors that are in circulation but not yet officially confirmed or announced. It is commonly used in situations where individuals acquire information or news through word-of-mouth, rumors, or casual conversations rather than official or formal channels.

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

to [get|catch] wind of {sth}

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The origin of the idiom "open one's eyes to something" is rooted in the fundamental connection between vision and knowledge. The phrase draws upon the literal act of opening one's eyes to see the world around them as a metaphor for gaining awareness or understanding. It reflects the human experience of acquiring new insights or information that expands one's perception and broadens their understanding of a particular subject or concept. It is commonly used when someone experiences a significant shift in their understanding, perception, or beliefs about a particular subject or aspect of life.

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

to [open] {one's} eyes to {sth}

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The origin of the idiom "throw light on something" is derived from the metaphorical association between light and knowledge or understanding. Light has long been symbolically linked to illumination, clarity, and enlightenment. The idiom likely emerged from this metaphorical connection, reflecting the human desire to gain insight, uncover truths, or reveal hidden aspects. It is commonly used when there is a need to bring clarity, reveal hidden information, or provide explanations.

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

to [throw|shed|cast] light on {sth}

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The origin of the idiom "put a bug in someone's ear" is uncertain, but it likely stems from the world of espionage and surveillance. The phrase draws upon the concept of covertly planting a listening device or "bug" to eavesdrop on conversations and gather information. It is commonly used when there is a desire to plant a seed of thought or influence without being overt or direct.

What is the origin of the idiom "put a bug in someone's ear" and when to use it?

to [put] a bug in {one's} ear

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The origin of the idiomatic expression "hit home something" can be traced back to the physical act of forcefully striking or driving an object to a specific destination. The phrase represents the act of delivering a message or idea with impact and effectiveness, similar to the forceful action of striking a target. It reflects the human desire to ensure that a particular point or concept is fully understood and acknowledged by making a strong impression. It is commonly used when there is a need to ensure that a concept is fully understood and acknowledged by the listener or audience.

What is the origin of the idiom "hit home something" and when to use it?

to [hit|strike|drive] home {sth}

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The origin of the idiom "bring something home to someone" likely stems from the concept of physically transporting something to a person's residence or personal space, thus making it more immediate and relatable. The phrase metaphorically represents the act of presenting information, experiences, or evidence in a manner that deeply resonates with an individual, much like bringing an object or message directly to their home. It is used in various contexts and occasions where there is a need to make a message, lesson, or concept deeply resonate with an individual.

What is the origin of the idiom "bring something home to someone" and when to use it?

to [bring] {sth} home to {sb}

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The origin of the idiom "fall into place" is not rooted in a specific historical reference, but it draws upon the concept of physical objects fitting together or aligning in a natural and orderly manner. It is commonly used in discussions or conversations where there is a progression from confusion or uncertainty to a sense of coherence or comprehension.

What is the origin of the idiom "fall into place" and when to use it?

to [fall] into place

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The origin of the idiom "put two and two together" is not definitively known, but it likely stems from the basic mathematical principle of addition, where combining the numbers 2 and 2 results in 4. It is commonly used in situations where there are clues, hints, or pieces of evidence that, when combined, reveal a larger truth or understanding.

What is the origin of the idiom "put two and two together" and when to use it?

to [put] two and two together

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The origin of the idiom "see the light" is rooted in the metaphorical connection between the physical sensation of perceiving light and the mental or intellectual act of gaining understanding or insight. The phrase draws upon the fundamental association of light with knowledge, truth, and illumination. It is commonly used in situations where someone finally comprehends or accepts a truth, often after a period of confusion, skepticism, or resistance.

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

to [see] the light

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The origin of the idiom "take a look in the mirror" is not rooted in a specific historical reference, but it draws upon the literal act of looking at oneself in a mirror as a metaphor for self-reflection. Mirrors have long been used as tools for self-assessment, allowing individuals to see their own reflection and gain a visual representation of themselves and this expression's usage captures just that, but in the case of self-evaluation.

What is the origin of the idiom "take a look in the mirror" and when to use it?

to [take] a look in the mirror

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The origin of the idiom "see someone or something in a new light" is not tied to a specific historical reference, but it draws upon the metaphorical association of light with understanding, clarity, and revelation. It is commonly used in situations where individuals undergo a change in perspective, often resulting from new information, experiences, or personal growth.

What is the origin of the idiom "see someone or something in a new light" and when to use it?

to [see] {sb/sth} in a new light

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The origin of the idiom "talk sense into someone" is not tied to a specific historical reference, but it draws upon the concept of rationality and logical thinking as a means of influencing others. It is derived from the belief that clear, logical thinking can lead to sound decision-making and practical actions. It is commonly used in situations where individuals are displaying irrational or impractical thinking, making impulsive decisions, or refusing to consider alternative viewpoints.

What is the origin of the idiom "talk sense into someone" and when to use it?

to [talk] (some|) sense into {sb}

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to [knock] (some|) sense into {sb}

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The origin of the idiom "get the picture" is not tied to a specific historical reference, but it draws upon visual imagery as a metaphor for understanding. It is commonly used in conversations, discussions, or explanations where there is a need to confirm comprehension. It can also be used in situations where there is a need to emphasize or clarify a point and to prompt the listener to fully understand the intended meaning.

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

to [get] the picture

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The idiom "the penny drops" is believed to have originated from the concept of old mechanical slot machines or coin-operated devices. In such machines, a penny or coin would physically drop into a slot or mechanism to activate or unlock a particular outcome. The phrase represents the moment when the coin drops and triggers a realization or understanding in a person's mind. It is commonly used when someone finally comprehends a concept, recognizes the truth about a situation, or perceives the implications of a statement or action.

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

the penny [drop]

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to [take]  {sth} the wrong way

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Explore English idioms that relate to realization, including "come to light" and "put two and two together".

English Idioms for "Realization"