The idiom "take one's mind off something" does not have a specific historical origin. It developed naturally in the English language over time as a way to describe the action of diverting one's thoughts or attention away from a specific issue or concern in order to find relief from stress, anxiety, or preoccupation.

What is the origin of the idiom "take one's mind off something" and when to use it?

to [get|take|keep] {one's} mind off {sth}

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The idiom "brown study" has its origins in Middle English, where the term "brown" was used to describe something that was gloomy, dull, or obscure. In this context, a "brown study" referred to a state of deep contemplation or daydreaming, often characterized by someone being lost in their thoughts. It is used to describe a state of deep, often absentminded contemplation or daydreaming in which a person becomes absorbed in their thoughts.

What is the origin of the idiom "brown study" and when to use it?

brown study

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The idiom "give someone or something a once-over" likely has its origins in military and inspection in the United States in the late 19th or early 20th century. It is used to describe the action of briefly and superficially examining or assessing someone or something, typically for a specific purpose, without going into great detail.

What is the origin of the idiom "give someone or something a once-over" and when to use it?

to [give] {sb/sth} (a|the) once-over

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The origin of the idiom "if it was a snake, it would have bitten you" is not well-documented, but it is believed to be of American origin. The imagery of a snake biting someone serves as a metaphor for the idea that someone has failed to notice or find something that is very obvious and nearby.

What is the origin of the idiom "if it was a snake, it would have bitten you" and when to use it?

if (it|this) (was|were) a snake, it would have bitten you

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The origin of the acronym "XYZ" is not well-documented, but it is often 
used as a humorous and discreet way to remind someone to check their zipper, without openly mentioning the issue or potentially embarrassing them.

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

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The exact origin of the phrase "in the clouds" is unclear. However, it is believed to have originated from the visual imagery of someone whose thoughts or attention seemed to be wandering or floating away like clouds in the sky. The phrase has been in use for quite some time and has become a common expression in the English language. It effectively captures the idea of someone being mentally detached or lost in their own thoughts.

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

(head|) in the clouds

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The origin of the idiom "asleep at the wheel" is unclear, but it is thought to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone is not paying attention or is neglecting their responsibilities, often resulting in negative consequences.

What is the origin of the idiom "asleep at the wheel" and when to use it?

asleep at the wheel

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Master English idioms that relate to not paying attention, like "asleep at the wheel" and "brown study".

English Idioms for "Not Paying Attention"