The idiom "in stone" has its origin in the idea of inscriptions or engravings on stone surfaces, such as monuments, gravestones, or ancient tablets. These inscriptions are typically long-lasting and not easily altered, which is why they became symbols of permanence. Over time, this concept was adapted into language and used to convey the idea of something being fixed, unchangeable, or firmly established.

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

in stone

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The idiom "in a rut" originated from the image of a wheel stuck in a deep groove or rut, making it difficult to move or change direction. This phrase is used figuratively to signify the state of being stuck in a monotonous, unproductive, or unchanging routine, with little variation or progress. It suggests a sense of stagnation and the need for a change.

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

in a rut

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The idiom "come of age" does not have a specific historical origin. It is a more abstract and modern use of the phrase, derived from the general idea of maturing and being recognized as an adult or achieving a level of competence, often in the context of society, culture, or a particular field. This expression is often used to express the concept of reaching a point of maturity or competence.

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

to [come] of age

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The idiom "sea change" originates from Shakespeare's play "The Tempest," where Ariel sings, "Full fathom five thy father lies; Of his bones are coral made; Those are pearls that were his eyes: Nothing of him that doth fade, But doth suffer a sea-change." In the play, it signifies a transformation brought about by the sea, specifically the change of a human body into something different, like coral or pearls. Over time, this phrase has evolved and is now used to describe a profound, significant, or transformative change in various contexts, often related to a person's character, a situation, or a society.

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

sea change

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The idiom "bird of passage" originates from the idea of migratory birds that travel from one place to another with the changing seasons. These birds, known as "birds of passage," fly long distances in search of better conditions and resources. In an idiomatic sense, it is used to describe individuals who frequently move or travel, often without settling in one place for an extended period. The term conveys the idea of transience and a wanderer's lifestyle.

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

bird of passage

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The idiom "ups and downs" draws its origin from the imagery of a graph or chart, where the "ups" represent high points or positive moments, and the "downs" correspond to low points or challenges. This expression has been in use for centuries, reflecting the cyclical and fluctuating nature of life, It is mostly used to emphasize the need to navigate and adapt to various circumstances.

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

ups and downs

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The idiom "change hands" is rooted in the practice of transferring ownership or possession from one person to another. Its origin is straightforward, reflecting the act of exchanging an object, property, or responsibility from one set of hands to another. This phrase is often used in the context of buying and selling, inheritance, or any situation where something is passed from one individual to another.

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

to [change] hands

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The idiom "pass the torch" draws its origin from the world of sports, specifically relay races. In relay races, runners carry a baton, which is a symbol of responsibility and leadership. When one runner completes their portion of the race, they pass the baton to the next runner, signifying the transfer of the team's momentum and the continuation of the race. In a broader context, this phrase is used to represent the act of passing on responsibility, knowledge, or authority from one person to another, often with the intention of ensuring continuity and success.

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

to [pass] (on|) the (torch|baton)

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The idiom "second nature" has its origins in the idea of acquired habits or skills becoming so ingrained and automatic that they seem as natural as one's primary, or "first," nature. It reflects the concept that repeated actions or behaviors can become almost instinctual, like a reflex. This phrase is often used to describe activities or abilities that individuals have practiced to the point where they require little conscious thought or effort.

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

second nature

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to [turn] over a new leaf

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The idiom "break the habit" or "kick the habit" originates from the concept of habits or routines that individuals develop over time. It is rooted in the idea that habits, especially those that are considered detrimental or addictive, can be challenging to overcome. "Breaking" or "kicking" the habit signifies the deliberate and often difficult process of abandoning a behavior or routine in favor of healthier or more positive alternatives.

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

to [break|kick] the habit

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The idiom "roller coaster" takes its inspiration from the thrilling amusement park ride known for its sharp twists, steep climbs, and exhilarating drops. This ride offers an experience full of sudden, intense changes in motion, which is the source of the idiom's meaning. In a broader context, this expression is used to describe any situation or experience that involves significant ups and downs, sudden changes, or intense shifts in emotions, circumstances, or events.

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

roller coaster

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The idiom "change the face of something" derives from the idea of making a significant and often visible alteration to the appearance, nature, or character of a particular thing, place, or situation. The phrase "face" is used metaphorically to represent the external or observable aspects of an entity or concept. Changing the face of something implies a transformation that is easily noticeable and can impact its overall nature or perception.

What is the origin of the idiom "change the face of something" and when to use it?

to [change] the face of {sth}

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ebb and flow

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The idiom "be stuck in a time warp" is a figurative expression that creates the image of a warp in the fabric of time, where an individual or thing is isolated from the present and appears to belong to a different era. The term "time warp" itself originates from science fiction, notably popularized by the 1960s television series "Star Trek," which featured episodes involving the concept of time warps. The idiom is used to describe a situation where something or someone seems out of touch with the current times, often appearing as if they are stuck in a bygone era.

What is the origin of the idiom "be stuck in a time warp" and when to use it?

to [be] (stuck|caught|locked) in a time warp

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The idiom "ring out the old" is a metaphorical expression that draws its inspiration from the practice of ringing bells to mark the passage of time or significant events, such as the striking of midnight on New Year's Eve. It signifies the act of bidding farewell to outdated or obsolete practices, traditions, or beliefs, and ushering in new, more modern, or progressive ideas and approaches. It is used to encourage people to embrace change and move forward, leaving behind what is no longer relevant or effective.

What is the origin of the idiom "ring out the old" and when to use it?

to [ring] out the old (year|)

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The idiom "shifting sands" originates from the literal idea of sand dunes or desert landscapes where the terrain is constantly changing due to wind and natural erosion. Figuratively, it is used to represent an unstable or uncertain situation, often referring to circumstances or conditions that are unpredictable and subject to frequent changes. The phrase conveys the idea that one cannot rely on a stable foundation in such conditions, which may lead to difficulties or challenges in making decisions or plans.

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

shifting sands

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The idiom "go through the roof" likely originates from the imagery of an object or a situation breaking through the ceiling, which symbolizes a sudden and dramatic increase or escalation. When applied to prices, it suggests a significant and unexpected surge in cost. This idiom is commonly used to describe situations where something experiences an abrupt and substantial rise, often in the context of financial or emotional reactions.

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

to [go] through the roof

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The idiom "go through the floor" is an idiomatic expression that is used to signify a sharp and sudden decrease or decline in something, typically used in the context of prices, values, or performance. Its origin is rooted in the idea of something figuratively falling through the floor or plummeting, much like an object falling to a lower level, representing a substantial drop or decline in a particular aspect.

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

to [go] through the floor

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The idiom "leave well alone" has unclear origins, but it has been used for centuries to advise against unnecessary interference. It suggests that attempting to change something that doesn't need improvement might cause unintended problems.

What is the origin of the idiom "leave well alone" and when to use it?

to [leave|let] well (enough|) alone

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The idiom "get with the program" is a relatively modern expression that likely originated from the world of computers and technology. It emerged in the late 20th century, reflecting the idea of adapting to new, updated, or efficient methods or standards. The "program" in this context refers to a set of instructions or guidelines, often used in computing, and the idiom encourages individuals to catch up with the prevailing trends, expectations, or changes in a given situation, whether it is related to technology, societal norms, or any evolving context.

What is the origin of the idiom "get with the program" and when to use it?

to [get] with the program

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Discover how English idioms like "get with the program" and "turn over a new leaf" relate to change in English.

English Idioms for "Change"