The idiom "too close to call" is frequently used in the context of competitions, particularly in sports and elections. It signifies a situation where the outcome is so tight or uncertain that it is difficult to predict a winner or make a definitive judgment. The origin of this phrase is not precisely documented, but it has been used for decades to describe close contests or situations where the margin between competitors is minimal.

What is the origin of the idiom "too close to call" and when to use it?

too close to call

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The idiom "a question mark hangs over something" is used to express that there are unresolved issues, ambiguities, or unknowns related to the subject in question, and these factors cast doubt or ambiguity over the matter. The phrase originates from the literal image of a question mark, which represents uncertainty in written language.

What is the origin of the idiom "a question mark hangs over something" and when to use it?

a question mark [hang] over {sth}

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The idiom "set the record straight" is used to describe the act of correcting misinformation, inaccuracies, or misunderstandings and ensuring that the true and accurate facts are known. Its origin is likely rooted in the idea of rectifying an inaccurate or incomplete record or history.

What is the origin of the idiom "set the record straight" and when to use it?

to [set|put] the record straight

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The phrase "you never know" is an idiomatic expression that has been in use for a long time. Its origin is rooted in the acknowledgment of life's unpredictability and the idea that the future is often uncertain. This phrase is used to convey that one cannot be certain about the outcome of a situation, emphasizing the potential for various, often unexpected, possibilities.

What is the origin of the idiom "you never know" and when to use it?

you never know

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The idiom "gray area" is derived from the color gray, which is often associated with ambiguity and uncertainty. It has been used in the English language for many years to describe situations or issues that are not clearly defined, making it challenging to establish precise boundaries or categorize them definitively.

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

gray area

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The idiom "have second thoughts" originates from the idea of reconsidering a decision or action before proceeding. It is used to suggest taking a moment to reflect or entertain doubts about one's initial choice, often due to uncertainty or a realization.

What is the origin of the idiom "have second thoughts" and when to use it?

to [have] second thoughts

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The phrase "a shot in the dark" is an idiomatic expression that have been in use for many years. Its origin is not precisely known, but it likely developed from the idea of taking an action or making a guess with limited information, much like trying to hit a target with a shot or a stab in low-light or uncertain conditions.It is often used to convey the idea of taking a guess or making an attempt with limited knowledge or information, often in uncertain or risky situations.

What is the origin of the idiom "a shot in the dark" and when to use it?

(shot|stab) in the dark

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The idiom "in the balance" originated from the concept of an object or situation being held in a state of uncertainty, where it could potentially tip in one direction or another. This expression is used to describe a circumstance or situation that is at a critical or crucial point, where the outcome remains uncertain and could go either way. It is also used to convey the idea that the decision or result is yet to be determined and depends on a variety of factors or actions.

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

in the balance

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The idiom "be anyone's guess" likely originates from the idea that in situations where the outcome is uncertain or not easily predicted, anyone's guess is as good as another's. This idiom is used to express that something is unknown or unpredictable, and there is no definitive or clear answer.

What is the origin of the idiom "be anyone's guess" and when to use it?

to [be] (anyone's|anybody's) (guess|call)

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The idiom "take something with a grain of salt" has its origins in ancient Roman and Greek traditions. The phrase was first recorded by the Roman author Pliny the Elder in his work "Naturalis Historia" and is derived from the Latin expression "cum grano salis." It suggests approaching information or claims with skepticism and not believing everything at face value.

What is the origin of the idiom "take something with a grain of salt" and when to use it?

to [take] {sth} with a grain of salt

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The idiom "wild card" originated from card games, particularly poker, where certain cards were designated as "wild," meaning they could represent any other card. Over time, the phrase has been adopted into various contexts, referring to an element or factor that introduces unpredictability or a level of uncertainty into a situation. In general usage, this expression is used to refer to something or someone that is unexpected, unconventional, or has the potential to alter the usual course of events.

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

wild card

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The phrase "rope of sand" is a metaphorical idiom that has been used for centuries to depict something that is weak, fragile, or insubstantial. The origin of the expression can be traced to various literary and historical sources, and it is employed to describe relationships, agreements, or connections that are easily broken or lack a strong foundation, emphasizing the futility of relying on such feeble bonds.

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

rope of sand

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The idiom "under a cloud" has its origins in English idiomatic language, although the precise source is unclear. It is used to describe a person who is facing suspicion, criticism, or a negative reputation due to their involvement in a controversial or questionable situation.

What is the origin of the idiom "under a cloud" and when to use it?

under a cloud of suspicion

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The phrase "how long is a piece of string" is a humorous idiom used to highlight the vagueness or impossibility of providing a precise answer to a question. The origin of this expression is not precisely documented, but it likely developed as a playful way of emphasizing the difficulty in measuring or determining something that lacks clear parameters.

What is the origin of the idiom "how long is a piece of string" and when to use it?

how long is a piece of string

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The origin of the idiom "give or take" is rooted in its literal meaning. Its origins are not tied to a particular historical event or source, as it essentially reflects the idea of allowing for some level of flexibility or approximation when discussing numerical values. It is used to indicate a degree of flexibility or approximation in numerical values. The phrase suggests that the specified quantity can be somewhat more or less than the exact figure provided.

What is the origin of the idiom "give or take" and when to use it?

give or take

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The origin of the idiom "neck and neck" can be traced back to horse racing, where the phrase refers to horses running side by side with their necks aligned. This image captures the intense competition between two or more horses as they strive to outpace each other in a race. Over time, the idiom "neck and neck" expanded beyond horse racing to describe any situation or competition where participants are closely matched and there is no clear leader or advantage.

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

neck and neck

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The idiom "neither fish nor fowl" has origins in Old English and Middle English literature, but its specific source is not well-documented. It is used to describe something or someone that does not fit into a specific category, is difficult to categorize, or lacks clear characteristics of any particular type.

What is the origin of the idiom "neither fish nor fowl" and when to use it?

neither fish nor fowl

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The idiom "dog's chance" likely originated from the idea that a dog, when facing certain difficult or adverse circumstances, might have a low chance of success. It is used to describe a situation where the odds of success or a favorable outcome are perceived to be very slim or unlikely.

What is the origin of the idiom "dog's chance" and when to use it?

dog's chance

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The phrase "twist in the wind" is an idiomatic expression that conveys the idea of being left in an uncertain, vulnerable, or unsupported position. While the precise origin of this expression is not documented, it is used to describe situations where individuals or matters are left to cope with ambiguity, neglect, or lack of resolution. These idioms highlight the feeling of abandonment, uncertainty, or exposure to external forces without guidance or assistance. They are frequently used to describe issues, decisions, or people who are left unresolved or unsupported.

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

to [twist|swing|hang] in the wind

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Explore English idioms regarding uncertainty with examples like "have second thoughts" and "too close to call".

English Idioms for "Uncertainty"