The idiom "throw caution to the wind" does not have a widely documented historical origin. It is considered an idiomatic expression that has evolved organically in the English language over time. It is used to describe a situation where someone decides to take a risk or act boldly,

What is the origin of the idiom "throw caution to the wind" and when to use it?

to [throw|cast|fling] caution to the [wind]

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eagle eye

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The idiom "easy does it" is believed to have originated as an informal way of advising caution or a gradual, gentle approach to a task. It is commonly used to encourage someone to proceed slowly and carefully, particularly in situations where haste or recklessness may lead to negative outcomes.

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

easy does it

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The phrase "look before someone leap" is an old English idiom that advises caution and careful consideration before taking any action or making a decision. Its origins can be traced back to various forms in English literature over several centuries. The is used to emphasize the importance of thinking through the potential consequences or risks of an action before acting impulsively or without due consideration.

What is the origin of the idiom "look before someone leap" and when to use it?

to [look] before {sb} [leap]

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The idiom "on the lookout for someone or something" is used to describe a state of watchfulness or alertness in the search for a specific person or thing. Its origins can be traced to English language use over the years, and it reflects the idea of actively seeking or being attentive to the presence or arrival of someone or something.

What is the origin of the idiom "on the lookout for someone or something" and when to use it?

on the lookout for {sb/sth}

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The idiom "play safe" has its origins in English and is commonly used to advise caution, risk avoidance, or the adoption of a prudent and safe approach in various situations. Its origins are rooted in the concept of taking care to prevent harm or mistakes, and it has evolved as an idiomatic expression over time.

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

to [play] (it|) safe

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The idiom "keep one's wits about someone" has a long history in the English language, dating back to Old English. It evolved from the term "wits," which referred to one's intelligence, mental faculties, and awareness. The exact historical origin is difficult to pinpoint due to its early usage in the language. Over time, it has become a common idiom used to encourage someone to stay alert and use their judgment effectively, particularly in situations requiring quick thinking and decision-making.

What is the origin of the idiom "keep one's wits about someone" and when to use it?

to [keep|have] (all|) {one's} wits about {sb}

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The idiom "walk on eggshells" has its origins in the idea that eggshells are delicate and can easily break under pressure. It is used to describe a situation in which someone is being extremely cautious, tiptoeing, or speaking carefully to avoid upsetting someone or causing a problem.

What is the origin of the idiom "walk on eggshells" and when to use it?

to [walk|be] on eggshells

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The expression "keep an eye on someone or something" is an idiomatic phrase that has its origins rooted in the idea of vigilant observation and have been used in English for many years. It is commonly employed to highlight the need for awareness or surveillance, especially when there is a concern for safety, security, or supervision.

What is the origin of the idiom "keep an eye on someone or something" and when to use it?

to [keep] an eye on {sb/sth}

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The idiom "keep someone on their toes" originates from the image of someone being poised and ready for action, much like a person on their tiptoes, and it is used to describe a situation where someone is kept alert, attentive, or mentally and physically active. It is also often used in situations where people need to stay vigilant and prepared for unexpected events.

What is the origin of the idiom "keep someone on their toes" and when to use it?

to [keep] {sb} on {one's} toes

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The idiom "tiptoe around something" derives from the literal act of walking softly and quietly on one's tiptoes to avoid making noise. It is used when people choose to be subtle, indirect, or circumspect in addressing a matter to avoid potential negative reactions.

What is the origin of the idiom "tiptoe around something" and when to use it?

to [tiptoe] around  {sth}

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The idiom "tiptoe around someone" originates from the literal act of walking quietly on one's tiptoes to avoid making noise. This expression is used when people handle interpersonal interactions with care, choosing to be subtle and indirect to prevent negative reactions or maintain a peaceful atmosphere.

What is the origin of the idiom "tiptoe around someone" and when to use it?

to [tiptoe] around {sb}

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The idiom "drop someone or something like a hot potato" originates from the notion that if one were holding a hot potato or brick, they would instinctively and hastily drop it to avoid being burnt or injured. This expression is used to emphasize the swift and decisive nature of distancing oneself from an unfavorable situation.

What is the origin of the idiom "drop someone or something like a hot potato" and when to use it?

to [drop] {sb/sth} like a hot (potato|brick)

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The idiom "kick the tires" has its origins in the practice of physically inspecting a vehicle, often by kicking its tires, to assess its condition before making a purchase. it is used to describe a basic evaluation or a preliminary assessment of something, typically before making a decision or commitment.

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

to [kick] the tires

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The idiom "hedge one's bets" has its origins in the world of gambling, specifically in betting on horse races. It refers to the practice of placing multiple bets on different horses in a race to increase the chances of winning and reduce potential losses. The idea is that if one bet fails, the other bets may still pay off. The term "hedge" in this context suggests the use of a hedge to mark the boundary of the betting area at a racetrack. In contemporary usage, the phrase is used more broadly to indicate that someone is taking precautionary measures or diversifying their options to minimize risk or uncertainty, especially when facing an uncertain outcome.

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

to [hedge] {one's} bets

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The idiom "on notice" is often used to indicate that someone or something is under observation, alert, or scrutiny due to a specific reason or warning. Its origins lie in legal contexts, where formal notices or warnings are issued to inform individuals or entities of impending consequences or actions. In everyday usage, it is used to convey a sense of being aware that one's behavior or situation is being monitored.

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

on notice

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Discover how English idioms like "walk on eggshells" and "on the lookout for" relate to cautiousness in English.

English Idioms for "Cautiousness"