The idiom "get caught up in something" originates from the idea of becoming entangled or ensnared in a situation or activity, often unexpectedly or unintentionally. It implies a sense of involvement or immersion in something that may divert one's attention or time from other matters. The idiom is widely used to describe how people find themselves deeply engaged in events, tasks, or emotions, even when they hadn't initially intended to do so.

What is the origin of the idiom "get caught up in something" and when to use it?

to [get|be] caught up in {sth}

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The idiom "in on the ground floor" originated in the world of real estate and construction. It originally referred to being involved in a project or venture from its initial stages, particularly when a building was being constructed, and had a literal connotation of starting from the first floor of a building, which is the ground floor. Over time, it evolved into a figurative expression, denoting the opportunity to participate in or witness the early development of a venture, idea, or trend, with the implication that those involved from the outset have a potential advantage.

What is the origin of the idiom "in on the ground floor" and when to use it?

in on the ground floor

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The idiom "be caught in the crossfire" originates from the literal concept of being inadvertently trapped in the midst of a gunfight or conflict, where bullets are exchanged between opposing sides. Figuratively, it symbolizes finding oneself in a situation where conflicting interests, opinions, or forces clash, and one becomes an unintended victim or participant in the dispute. The idiom is used to convey a sense of vulnerability and the potential for harm when one is caught between opposing or warring parties.

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

to [be|get] caught in the crossfire

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The idiom "in bed with someone or something" has a figurative origin and is believed to have arisen from the notion of being physically close and intimate with someone in bed. It implies a close and often questionable association, partnership, or collaboration with a person, group, or entity, where one's interests, actions, or intentions might be intertwined or aligned. This idiom is often used in both negative and critical contexts, suggesting a level of coziness or affiliation that may not be in the best interest of all parties involved.

What is the origin of the idiom "in bed with somebody or something" and when to use it?

in bed with {sb/sth}

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The idiom "be up to one's ears in something" originates from the visual image of being so deeply immersed or surrounded by a situation, task, or responsibility that it feels as if one's ears, eyes, or neck are almost submerged or overwhelmed. This figurative expression is often used to describe situations where someone is heavily involved in an activity or problem, sometimes to their detriment due to the level of commitment or the challenges involved.

What is the origin of the idiom "be up to one's ears in something" and when to use it?

to [be] up to {one's} (ears|eyes|neck) in {sth}

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The idiom "on the case" has its origins in detective or police jargon, where investigators are said to be "on the case" when they are actively working on solving a particular crime or mystery. It conveys the idea of someone being actively engaged in addressing a specific task, situation, or problem, often with a sense of dedication, determination, or expertise. Over time, the phrase has evolved to be used in various contexts beyond law enforcement, indicating someone's commitment to tackling a particular issue or being responsible for a specific matter.

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

on the case

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The idiom "a piece of the action" has its roots in colloquial language and is thought to have originated in the mid-20th century. It draws from the world of business and entertainment, where "the action" refers to the exciting or lucrative part of an endeavor, such as a profitable business venture or a successful event. It typically used to convey a sense of wanting to participate or benefit from an opportunity or enterprise.

What is the origin of the idiom "a piece of the action" and when to use it?

a (piece|slice) of the action

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The idiom "be in for" is rooted in the idea of anticipating or expecting a specific outcome or experience, often based on an existing situation or engagement. It suggests that someone is likely to face or undergo a particular event, situation, or consequence, usually with the implication of a certain level of preparedness. The expression it is now used in various contexts to express one's readiness for what lies ahead.

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

to [be] in for

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The idiom "on hand" likely does not have a specific historical origin. It is used to convey the idea of having something available or accessible for the purpose of addressing and handling various situations. Its origin is essentially tied to the practicality and simplicity of the language itself, reflecting the idea of preparedness and resource availability.

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

on hand

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The idiom "put one's oar in" or "stick one's oar in" has its origin in nautical and maritime settings. In the context of rowing boats, it refers to the act of inserting an oar into the water to help row or steer the boat. The figurative usage of the expression likely emerged from the idea that introducing an extra oar into the rowing process, especially without coordination or need, can disrupt the harmony and efficiency of rowers. Over time, this concept was adapted into a metaphor to describe unwanted or unnecessary meddling or involvement.

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

to [put|stick|get] {one's} [oar] in

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The idiom "poke one's nose into something" originates from the idea of prying or meddling in other people's affairs, much like someone literally inserting their nose where it doesn't belong. This expression is used to describe the act of becoming involved in a situation or matter that does not concern one, often inquisitively or intrusively. It conveys a sense of nosiness and a lack of respect for personal boundaries, as though someone is figuratively poking their nose into something that is not their business.

What is the origin of the idiom "poke one's nose into something" and when to use it?

to [poke|stick] {one's} nose (into|in) {sth}

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The idiom "the ball is in one's court" has its origin in the world of sports, particularly in games like tennis and racquet sports. In these games, players take turns hitting a ball back and forth over a net. When the ball is in one player's court, it means it is their turn to make a move or take action. Figuratively, this expression is used to convey that someone is responsible for making a decision or taking action in a particular situation, and it implies that it is now their turn to respond or make their move.

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

the ball [is] in {one's} court

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The idiom "have a finger in the pie" is believed to have originated from medieval England, where "pie" referred to a meat pie. In those times, people often shared communal pies at social gatherings. The person who hosted or organized the event would typically have the responsibility of cutting and serving the pie. Those who wanted to exert influence or control over the situation might insert their finger into the pie to claim a portion or make their presence known. Figuratively, the expression is used to refer to someone who has an involvement or stake in a particular matter, often with a sense of participation or having a share in something, but it may not necessarily carry a connotation of meddling or influence.

What is the origin of the idiom "have a finger in the pie" and when to use it?

to [have] a finger in the pie

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The idiom "have a finger in every pie" likely derives from the idea of having one's fingers in multiple pies, indicating a propensity to be engaged in numerous activities and endeavors. This expression is used to emphasize an individual's desire to be part of and knowledgeable about various situations, whether out of curiosity, helpfulness, or a desire to be informed.

What is the origin of the idiom "have a finger in every pie" and when to use it?

to [have] a finger in every pie

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The idiom "get one's hands dirty" likely originates from the association of physical labor or manual work with the literal act of soiling one's hands with dirt, grease, or grime. Over time, it has evolved into a metaphorical expression, indicating a willingness to engage in challenging or morally ambiguous tasks that may tarnish one's reputation or require personal involvement in difficult situations.

What is the origin of the idiom "get one's hands dirty" and when to use it?

to [get] {one's} hands dirty

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The idiom "the meat in the sandwich" likely draws its origins from the literal concept of a sandwich, where the meat or filling is the substantial part between two pieces of bread. In its figurative use, "the meat in the sandwich" refers to a person or thing placed in the middle of two opposing or challenging situations, much like the substantial filling in a sandwich.

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

the meat in the sandwich

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The idiom "play gooseberry" has its origins in British slang dating back to the 19th century. It originally referred to a person who accompanied a couple on a romantic outing, acting as a chaperone to ensure their behavior remained appropriate, much like a gooseberry bush standing alone. Over time, the term has evolved to mean someone who is unintentionally present when a couple wants to be alone, often feeling like a third wheel or outsider in the situation.

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

to [play] gooseberry

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Explore English idioms regarding involvement with examples like "get caught up in" and "play gooseberry".

English Idioms for "Involvement"