The idiom "lie in wait" is used to describe a state of readiness or anticipation for a negative event or outcome. The origin of this expression is rooted in the idea of waiting and being prepared to face adversity, particularly when one feels powerless to take action in order to prevent or stop it.

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

to [lie] in wait

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The phrase "on the off chance" is an idiom that is often used to describe an action taken in the hope of a positive outcome or result, even if the likelihood of that outcome is quite low. The origin of this phrase is not precisely documented, but it likely draws from the idea of taking a chance or a gamble when the odds are not in one's favor.

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

on the off chance

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The idiom "safe bet" is used to describe a choice or action that is considered highly likely to be successful or secure, with minimal risk of failure or negative consequences. The origin of this phrase is rooted in the world of gambling, where a "bet" is a wager or risk taken.

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

safe bet

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The phrase "be in the cards" is an idiom that is used to show that a particular event or outcome is highly likely to happen, often due to circumstances or factors that indicate its inevitability. The origin of this phrase is uncertain, but it may have been influenced by the practice of cartomancy, a form of divination using playing cards, where the cards are believed to reveal one's fate.

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

to [be] in the cards

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The phrase "down to earth" is an idiom used to describe a person or approach that is in accordance with what is realistic or achievable. The origin of this expression likely draws from the idea of being firmly grounded in reality and not floating in the clouds of fanciful or unrealistic thinking.

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

down to earth

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The phrase "be in line for something" is an idiom that is often used to indicate that someone is likely to receive, achieve, or experience a particular outcome or opportunity. The origin of this phrase is rooted in the idea of standing in a line or queue, where each person waits their turn for something, implying that the individual is next in line to receive the specified thing.

What is the origin of the idiom "be in line for something" and when to use it?

[be] in line for {sth}

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The idiom "fat chance" is used to express extreme skepticism or a belief that something is highly unlikely to happen. The origin of this phrase is uncertain, but it likely stems from the idea that a "fat" or significant chance is actually quite slim.

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

fat chance

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Explore English idioms regarding likelihood with examples like "on the off chance" and "be in the cards".

English Idioms for "Likelihood"