The idiom "not believe one's eyes" is used when someone is astonished, shocked, or surprised by something they have seen or heard because it seems almost too extraordinary or unbelievable to be true. It's a way to convey one's amazement or incredulity at a surprising situation. The origin of this phrase is not precisely documented, but it likely originated from the idea that seeing or hearing something incredible might make one question the reliability of their own senses.

What is the origin of the idiom "not believe one's eyes" and when to use it?

to {not} [believe] {one's} (eyes|ears)

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The idiom "double take" is originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It is used to describe the act of quickly looking at something and then immediately looking again in surprise or disbelief, often due to something unusual, unexpected, or remarkable.

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

double take

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The exact origin of the idiom "hold on to your hat" is not well-documented, but it likely emerged in the United States in the 19th century. It is derived from a practical piece of advice given to people in windy or turbulent conditions to prevent their hats from blowing away. Over time, it evolved into a figurative expression used to warn or prepare someone for a potentially tumultuous or surprising event.

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

to [hold|hang] on to {one's} [hat]

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The idiom "lost for words" originated from the idea that when someone is truly surprised, shocked, or overwhelmed by an event or situation, they may be unable to find the right words to express their thoughts or feelings. It is used to describe a moment of speechlessness. In various contexts, it can denote a lack of vocabulary to describe something or even indicate a moment of profound emotional impact.

What is the origin of the idiom "lost for words" and when to use it?

lost for words

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The idiom "raise eyebrows" is often used to imply that the action or statement is unconventional, unexpected, or unusual. The origin of this expression likely comes from the literal raising of one's eyebrows, which is a common physical reaction to surprise or curiosity.

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

to [raise] (some|a few|many|) eyebrows

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The idiom "bolt from the blue" is used to refer to a sudden, unexpected event or news that takes people by surprise. This expression is originated from the imagery of a clear, blue sky suddenly being disrupted by an unforeseen bolt of lightning. Here are five example sentences

What is the origin of the idiom "bolt from the blue" and when to use it?

bolt (from|out of) the blue

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The idiom "live to see the day" has its origins in the English language but does not have a specific, documented historical origin.It signifies a sense of anticipation or doubt about whether a specific occurrence will come to pass, and the speaker hopes they will be alive long enough to witness it. This phrase is often used in contexts where the event in question is significant, long-awaited, or uncertain in its realization.

What is the origin of the idiom "live to see the day" and when to use it?

to live to see the day

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The idiom "drop one's teeth" does not have a widely documented or specific origin. It is a metaphorical expression derived from the idea that something so surprising or shocking might make one's teeth fall out due to the suddenness of the revelation. It may be used to express astonishment or disbelief when something unexpected or shocking occurs.

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

to [drop] {one's} teeth

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The idiom "knock someone down with a feather" has its origins in the English language and is used figuratively to emphasize extreme surprise or astonishment. The expression likely originated from the idea that something as light as a feather could have such a significant impact that it could knock a person down.

What is the origin of the idiom "knock someone down with a feather" and when to use it?

to [knock] {sb} down with a feather

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The idiom "words fail someone" originated in the English language as a way to convey the idea that someone is so deeply moved, shocked, or overwhelmed by a situation or emotion that they find it difficult to express their thoughts or feelings adequately through words. The word "fail" is often used in brackets to indicate that the speaker might feel like their words are insufficient to capture the depth of their emotions or the significance of what they are experiencing.

What is the origin of the idiom "words fail someone" and when to use it?

words [fail] {sb}

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The idiom "stop in one's tracks" likely originated from the literal act of suddenly halting one's movement or progress. It is used figuratively to describe a situation where someone is so surprised, shocked, or confronted with a significant event or information that it causes them to stop or freeze in place, as if their physical and mental momentum has been abruptly halted.

What is the origin of the idiom "stop in one's tracks" and when to use it?

to [stop] (dead|right|) in {one's} tracks

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Dive into English idioms regarding the unbelievable, like "live to see the day" and "lost for words".

English Idioms for "Unbelievable"