The origin of the idiom "cross that bridge when somebody comes to it" is uncertain, but it likely stems from the literal act of crossing a physical bridge, where one would approach and address obstacles as they arise rather than fretting over them beforehand. This expression is commonly used to convey the idea of focusing on present concerns and deferring worry or action regarding future uncertainties until they become unavoidable.

What is the origin of the idiom "cross that bridge when somebody comes to it" and when to use it?

to [cross] that bridge when {sb} [come|get] to it

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The idiom "take something as it comes" is an idiomatic expression that advises accepting and dealing with events or circumstances as they occur, without excessive planning or worry. The origin of this phrase is not specific, as it reflects a general sentiment of adapting to situations as they unfold. This expression is commonly used to advocate for an accepting and adaptable mindset in the face of uncertain or unpredictable situations.

What is the origin of the idiom "take something as it comes" and when to use it?

to [take] {sth} as it comes

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The idiom "let it roll" originated from the world of gambling, specifically from games that involve rolling dice. This idiomatic expression is used to encourage someone to go with the flow, not to worry or interfere, and to allow events or situations to unfold naturally without trying to control or manipulate them.

What is the origin of the idiom "let it roll" and when to use it?

to [let] it roll

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The idiom "happy medium" originated from the concept of finding a satisfactory balance or compromise between two extremes. It is used to describe a desirable middle ground or a reasonable compromise that brings about a sense of satisfaction or contentment.

What is the origin of the idiom "happy medium" and when to use it?

happy medium

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The idiom "balancing act" originated from the literal act of maintaining balance while performing acrobatic or gymnastic stunts. Figuratively, it refers to the skillful management of multiple tasks, responsibilities, or conflicting interests simultaneously. The idiom is used to describe a situation that requires careful juggling and coordination to maintain equilibrium or harmony between different aspects or demands.

What is the origin of the idiom "balancing act" and when to use it?

balancing act

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The idiom "by the seat of one's pants" has its origins in aviation. It refers to a situation where a pilot has to rely solely on their instincts and experience rather than relying on instruments or external guidance. This idiomatic expression is used to describe a situation where someone is operating or making decisions based on intuition, improvisation, or a lack of proper preparation.

What is the origin of the idiom "by the seat of one's pants" and when to use it?

by the seat of {one's} pants

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The idiom "follow one's nose" originates from the literal act of using one's sense of smell to navigate or locate something. Figuratively, it is used to encourage someone to proceed in a straightforward manner, trusting their instincts or intuition to guide them without relying on specific directions or instructions. The phrase implies a sense of natural progression or intuitive decision-making.

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

to [follow] {one's} nose

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The idiom "halfway house" originated from the concept of a residential facility or institution that serves as a transitional place for individuals who are moving from one situation or condition to another. Figuratively, it is used to describe something that possesses a combination of qualities from two separate things or represents a compromise or middle ground between two opposing ideas or positions. It implies a blending or merging of different elements to create a balanced or intermediate state.

What is the origin of the idiom "halfway house" and when to use it?

halfway house

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The idiom "meet someone halfway" is derived from the idea of finding a compromise or reaching an agreement by each party making a partial concession. It is used to suggest finding a middle ground or making a fair compromise in a situation where there are differing opinions, desires, or goals. The phrase emphasizes the importance of cooperation, understanding, and finding a balanced resolution.

What is the origin of the idiom "meet someone halfway" and when to use it?

to [meet] {sb} halfway

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The idiom "off the cuff" originates from the world of clothing and refers to something that is done or said spontaneously or without prior preparation. The phrase is linked to the practice of making impromptu notes or remarks on the cuffs of one's shirt or jacket, as opposed to a prepared speech or script. "Off the cuff" is used to describe informal, unrehearsed, and spontaneous actions or comments.

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

off the cuff

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The idiom "off the top of one's head" originates from the idea that information or ideas are presented without deep thought or prior planning. It is used to describe providing a quick response or answer based on one's immediate knowledge or intuition, rather than relying on research or careful consideration. This phrase emphasizes spontaneity and a lack of formal preparation.

What is the origin of the idiom "off the top of one's head" and when to use it?

off the top of {one's} head

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The idiom "pluck something out of the air" has its origins in the world of magic and illusion. It is used to describe the act of coming up with something seemingly out of nowhere, often without a logical basis or prior thought. This expression is usually used in situations where someone offers an answer, explanation, or solution that appears to be spontaneous and lacks any apparent basis or evidence.

What is the origin of the idiom "pluck something out of the air" and when to use it?

to [pluck] {sth} (out of|from) (the|thin) air

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The phrase "give someone a break" is a idiomatic expression that originates from informal English. It is used to request or suggest that someone should be granted some respite, compassion, or understanding in a situation where they may be facing undue pressure, criticism, or difficulty.

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

(give|cut) {sb} a break

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The idiom "give someone a pass" is an expression that originates from sports, particularly in the context of allowing a player to pass through or bypass a certain point without being challenged or penalized. In everyday language, it is used to describe the act of allowing someone to escape criticism, punishment, or scrutiny for a particular action or behavior.

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

to [give] {sb} a (free|) pass

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The origin of the idiom "go easy on someone" is not well-documented, but it likely developed from the idea of moderating one's behavior or treatment toward someone. The use of "easy" in this context implies taking a gentle or lenient approach.This expression is used to suggest that a person should be less critical, harsh, or demanding toward another person. It is often employed when advising someone to be more considerate, forgiving, or understanding in their actions or words.

What is the origin of the idiom "go easy on someone" and when to use it?

to [go] easy on {sb}

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The idiom "cut someone some slack" originates from nautical terminology, where "slack" refers to a loose or relaxed rope or line on a ship. The idiom is used to show understanding emphasize the need for less pressure or criticism in various situations, especially when individuals are facing challenges or are new to something.

What is the origin of the idiom "cut someone some slack" and when to use it?

to [cut|give] {sb} some slack

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The idiom "take the easy way out" is a figurative expression that does not have a specific historical origin but is rooted in the idea of choosing the simplest or least challenging option. It is used to describe someone's decision to avoid a difficult or challenging situation or task by opting for a solution that requires less effort or confrontation. This idiom is often used to express disapproval or criticism when someone avoids a problem rather than facing it directly.

What is the origin of the idiom "take the easy way out" and when to use it?

to [take] the easy way out

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The origin of the idiom "free ride" is not precisely documented, but it likely emerged from the idea of getting a ride without having to pay for it, which led to the broader sense of obtaining something without paying the expected price. It is used to refer to a situation where someone receives a benefit or advantage without putting in the necessary effort, facing the usual consequences, or having to work for it.

What is the origin of the idiom "free ride" and when to use it?

free ride

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The idiom "think on one's feet" is derived from the idea of someone quickly and effectively making decisions or solving problems in a dynamic and fast-paced situation, such as in a conversation, presentation, or an unexpected challenge. It is often used to describe the ability to respond rapidly and adapt to changing circumstances without much preparation. This idiom highlights a person's skill in making smart, immediate decisions.

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

to [think] on {one's} feet

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The idiom "play by ear" is derived from the musical meaning but extended to describe decision-making or problem-solving. Just as a musician improvises and adjusts their playing based on what they hear, making decisions by ear involves adapting to a situation as it unfolds, rather than following a preconceived plan. This expression is used to signify the act of remaining flexible and responsive to changing circumstances. It implies a willingness to adjust one's course of action based on the current information or developments.

What is the origin of the idiom "play by ear" and when to use it?

to [play] {sth} by ear

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The idiom "be all things to all people" has a biblical origin, found in the New Testament, Corinthians 9:22: "I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some." In this context, it means being adaptable and accommodating to different individuals and groups to achieve a common goal. In contemporary usage, it is often used to describe someone who tries to please everyone or fit into various social or professional situations, even if it means being inconsistent or insincere.

What is the origin of the idiom "be all things to all people" and when to use it?

to [be] all things to all (people|men)

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Dive into English idioms regarding improvisation and compromise, like "let it roll" and "off the cuff".

English Idioms for "Improvisation & Compromise"