The idiom "apple of discord" refers to a source of conflict or discord that arises from a seemingly innocent or insignificant issue. The origin of this idiom can be traced back to Greek mythology. According to the myth, Eris, the goddess of discord, threw a golden apple into a gathering of gods and goddesses with a label that read "for the fairest." This act sparked a dispute among the goddesses Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite, leading to the events that eventually led to the Trojan War. This expression is used to describe a specific issue or topic that becomes a significant source of conflict or disagreement among individuals or groups.

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

apple of discord

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The exact origin of the idiom "dig oneself into a hole" is unclear. However, the phrase's metaphorical meaning is derived from the literal act of digging a hole in the ground. When someone digs a hole, they go deeper and deeper into the ground, making it progressively harder to climb out. Overtime, it has become a widely recognized expression in English to describe the self-imposed difficulties or problems that arise from one's own actions or choices.

What is the origin of the idiom "dig oneself into a hole" and when to use it?

to [dig] {oneself} into a hole

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The phrase "recipe for disaster" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a combination of factors, actions, or circumstances that are likely to result in a disastrous or highly unfavorable outcome. It conveys the idea that certain elements, when combined, create a situation that is bound to go wrong or lead to significant problems. The phrase uses the metaphor of a recipe, suggesting that the combination of these factors is akin to following a set of instructions that will inevitably lead to disaster.

What is the origin of the idiom "recipe for disaster" and when to use it?

recipe for disaster

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The idiom "rock the boat" originated from the nautical world, specifically from the idea of causing disturbance or instability on a boat. It refers to any action or behavior that creates tension, disrupts harmony, or challenges the status quo within a group or organization. The idiom is used to suggest that by challenging existing norms or expressing dissenting opinions, one risks causing conflict or upsetting the balance.

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

to [rock] the boat

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The idiom "can of worms" originated from the practice of fishing using live bait, where worms were commonly stored in cans. Opening a can of worms refers to a situation or topic that, once introduced or addressed, leads to a complex and troublesome set of problems or difficulties. It is used to suggest that by delving into a particular issue, one is likely to encounter a multitude of interconnected and challenging issues that can be difficult to resolve.

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

can of worms

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The idiom "the fat is in the fire" has its roots in the practice of cooking, specifically when excess fat or grease accidentally catches fire. This situation was often dangerous and difficult to control. Figuratively, the idiom means that a difficult or dangerous situation has occurred, and there is no turning back or avoiding the consequences. It implies that the situation has escalated to a critical point where immediate action or resolution is required.

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

the fat [is] in the fire

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The idiom "hornet's nest" refers to a situation or issue that, when disturbed or provoked, results in a strong and potentially dangerous backlash or uproar. It draws its origins from the idea of disturbing a nest of hornets and experiencing the aggressive swarm of hornets defending their territory. The idiom is used to impliy that meddling with a sensitive or contentious matter can lead to unforeseen and adverse consequences.

What is the origin of the idiom "hornet's nest" and when to use it?

hornet's nest

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The idiom "cross to bear" has its origins in Christianity, specifically referring to the burden or suffering that Jesus Christ carried, symbolized by the cross, on his way to crucifixion. It is used to impliy a sense of hardship, sacrifice, or duty that one must face or accept, often without the ability to escape or rid oneself of it.

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

[cross] to bear

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The idiom "more kicks than halfpence" originated in the United Kingdom and refers to someone who has experienced a disproportionate amount of mistreatment, abuse, or misfortune. The term "halfpence" refers to a former British coin, which has become obsolete. The idiom implies that an individual has faced numerous hardships or setbacks, exceeding what would be considered a fair or reasonable share of difficulties.

What is the origin of the idiom "more kicks than halfpence" and when to use it?

more kicks than halfpence

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The idiom "through the mill" has its origins in the milling industry, where grains are ground between heavy stones or rollers to produce flour. The process of milling involves subjecting the grains to intense pressure, grinding, and refining. Figuratively, the idiom means to undergo a difficult, challenging, or rigorous experience that tests one's resilience, character, or endurance. It implies enduring a series of hardships, obstacles, or trials that can shape or refine a person.

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

through the mill

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The idiom "shit hit the fan" is a originated in the mid-20th century. It is a vivid and informal way of describing a situation where chaos, trouble, or a significant problem suddenly arises or escalates. The idiom is used to imply that the situation has reached a critical point where the negative consequences become apparent and unavoidable. The phrase uses a vulgar term for emphasis and to convey a sense of shock or intensity.

What is the origin of the idiom "shit hit the fan" and when to use it?

(shit|stuff) [hit] the fan

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The idiom "bane of one's life" has its roots in Old English, where "bane" referred to a cause of ruin or destruction. The word "bane" is associated with something that brings harm, distress, or trouble. The phrase is used to impliy that a specific person, thing, or situation is a constant source of frustration, annoyance, or difficulty, making one's life or existence more challenging or unpleasant.

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

bane of {one's} (life|existence)

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The idiom "the fat hit the fire" is an expression used to describe a situation where a problem or conflict intensifies or becomes more serious. It conveys the idea that a previously manageable or contained issue has now escalated and reached a critical point. The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the imagery of fat dripping onto a fire, which causes a sudden burst of flames and increased intensity.

What is the origin of the idiom "the fat hit the fire" and when to use it?

the fat [hit] the fire

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The idiom "spell trouble" is used to suggest that a specific event, circumstance, or series of actions will lead to trouble or danger. The origin of this idiom is unclear, but it likely stems from the idea of casting a spell that brings about negative consequences or misfortune.

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

to [spell] (trouble|danger)

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Explore English idioms that relate to troublemaking, including "cross the bear" and "recipe for disaster".

English Idioms for "Troublemaking"