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binomial pair
2-
dead and buried
3-
dos and don'ts
4-
short and sweet
5-
through and through
6-
wear and tear
7-
high and dry
8-
live and learn
9-
to pick and choose
10-
rough and ready
11-
safe and sound
binomial pair
noun
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/baɪnˈoʊmɪəl pˈɛɹ/
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a phrase made up of two words connected by a conjunction

dead and buried
phrase
uk flag
/dˈɛd ænd bˈɛɹɪd ɡˈɔn/
Idiom
Informal

(of a thing) cannot happen or exist again in the future, due to being completely finished in the past

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

The idiom "dead and buried" originates from the literal concept of death and burial and the undeniable fact that once someone is dead and buried, their memory is gradually forgotten. It is used metaphorically to indicate that something or someone is completely finished, over, or irretrievable. In other words, it emphasizes the finality and permanence of a situation or the complete absence of something or someone.

dos and don'ts
dos and don'ts
phrase
uk flag
/dˈɑːs ænd dˈoʊnts/
Idiom

rules that determine what one should or should not do in a particular situation

What is the origin of the idiom "dos and don'ts" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "dos and don'ts" can be traced back to the early 20th century, where it emerged as a concise way to express a set of guidelines or rules. The phrase is derived from the use of "dos" and "don'ts" as shorthand for "things to do" and "things not to do." It is commonly employed in areas such as etiquette, safety protocols, job training, educational settings, and general life advice.

short and sweet
phrase
uk flag
/ʃˈɔːɹt ænd swˈiːt/
Collocation

used to describe something that is brief and to the point, yet pleasant or enjoyable

through and through
through and through
phrase
uk flag
/θɹuː ænd θɹˈuː/
Idiom
Informal

in every single way

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

The idiom "through and through" originated from Middle English and has been in use since the 14th century. It combines the word "through" (meaning completely or thoroughly) with itself to emphasize completeness or thoroughness. Over time, it evolved into an idiomatic expression used to describe something or someone as entirely characterized by a particular quality, condition, or trait.

wear and tear
phrase
uk flag
/wˈɛɹ ɐnd tˈɛɹ/

the gradual damage or deterioration that occurs to an object or property as a result of normal use or aging

high and dry
high and dry
phrase
uk flag
/hˈaɪ ænd dɹˈaɪ/
Idiom
Informal

(of a person) placed in a difficult situation with little or no resources or help

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

The idiom "high and dry" originally referred to ships being stranded or left aground on land when the tide recedes, leaving them in a vulnerable and exposed position. Figuratively, it is used to describe a situation where someone is left without help, support, or assistance, often in a difficult or unfavorable circumstance.

live and learn
interjection
uk flag
/lˈaɪv ænd lˈɜːn/
Proverb

used to imply that making mistakes is a natural part of the learning process, and that one should not be discouraged by failure but instead use it as an opportunity for growth and improvement

What is the origin of the proverb "live and learn" and when to use it?

The origin of the proverb "live and learn" is uncertain, but it has been used in English-speaking cultures for centuries. This proverb encourages a mindset of resilience and continuous improvement, reminding individuals that every experience, whether successful or not, contributes to wisdom and understanding. It also carries a subtle reminder to embrace challenges and remain open to learning throughout life.

to [pick] and [choose]
to pick and choose
phrase
uk flag
/pˈɪk ænd tʃˈuːz/
Idiom

‌to choose the most desirable alternative out of the ones available

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

The idiom "pick and choose" originated from the combination of the words "pick" and "choose," which individually mean to select or make a choice. The exact origin of this phrase is difficult to trace, as it likely developed naturally within the English language over time. The concept of picking and choosing has been ingrained in human decision-making for centuries. The phrase itself has been in common usage for several centuries, appearing in written works as early as the 16th century. It has since become a widely recognized idiom that conveys the act of carefully selecting or making choices. It is commonly employed in situations where individuals have the freedom or opportunity to be selective.

rough and ready
phrase
uk flag
/ɹˈʌfændɹˈɛdi/
Idiom
Informal

simple but good enough to fulfill a particular need or purpose

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

The idiom "rough and ready" originated from the military context, specifically referring to troops or soldiers who were prepared for battle despite their lack of formal training or refined appearance. It conveys the idea of being adequately equipped and capable of handling a situation, even if it means relying on practicality and resourcefulness rather than sophistication or polish. Over time, the idiom has evolved to describe anything or anyone that is unrefined yet effective or functional in achieving a desired outcome.

safe and sound
safe and sound
phrase
uk flag
/sˈeɪf ænd sˈaʊnd/
Idiom

not damaged or injured in any way

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

The idiom "safe and sound" has its origin in Middle English. This phrase is often used to express relief or reassurance after a potentially risky or dangerous situation, such as returning home from a journey or finding something or someone thought to be lost. It can also be used metaphorically to convey emotional well-being or security.

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