The idiom "a matter of life and death" is used to emphasize the extreme seriousness and significance of a situation, decision, or action, where the outcome could determine whether someone lives or dies. This expression does not have a specific historical origin but is rooted in the fundamental importance of life and survival.

What is the origin of the idiom "a matter of life and death" and when to use it?

a matter of life and death

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The idiom "big deal" is used to describe something of high priority or special importance, and it is typically used in a sarcastic or dismissive manner to downplay the significance of an event or situation. Its origin likely stems from the use of "big" to emphasize importance, while the "deal" aspect reflects the colloquial nature of the expression.

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

big deal

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The idiom "crying need" likely has its origins in the sense that when a need is so urgent or essential, it becomes almost as conspicuous and attention-grabbing as someone crying out for help. This expression is used to emphasize the critical and immediate nature of a requirement or demand.

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

crying need

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The idiom "loom large" comes from the visual analogy of an object appearing significant or prominent when it is "large" and close in proximity. It is used to describe something that is prominent, conspicuous, or influential, often in the context of its impact or significance. The idiom emphasizes the perceptible or dominating presence of a particular element in a situation.

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

to [loom] large

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The idiom "make the world go around" is used to suggest that something is crucial or fundamental to the functioning of the world or a particular system. While the precise origin of this idiom is not well-documented, it draws on the idea that there are essential elements or factors that keep the world or society running smoothly.

What is the origin of the idiom "make the world go around" and when to use it?

to [make] the world go around

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The idiom "meat on the bone" likely originated from the practice of evaluating the value of a piece of meat. The presence of meat on the bone implies that there is substance or value in the food. Figuratively, the idiom is used to describe something that has potential, substance, or value, often in the sense that there is room for further development or improvement.

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

meat on the bone

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larger than life

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The idiom "a dime a dozen" has its origins in the United States and is believed to have emerged in the early 20th century. It reflects the idea that something is so common and abundant that its value is minimal, much like items that can be bought for a dime (10 cents) and are readily available in large quantities. This idiom is used to describe things that are easy to find, abundant, or unremarkable due to their ubiquity.

What is the origin of the idiom "a dime a dozen" and when to use it?

a dime a dozen

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The idiom "for the birds" likely originated in the United States during the early 20th century, though its exact source remains uncertain. This expression is used to convey the notion that something is unimportant, trivial, or of little value, comparable to matters that only birds would find meaningful or interesting. It is a way to dismiss or deride a subject or situation as insignificant.

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

for the birds

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The idiom "hill of beans" originates from the United States and was popularized in the mid-20th century. It is used to describe something as insignificant, unimportant, or of minimal value, much like a pile of beans would be considered a small and relatively worthless quantity. The expression may have derived from the idea that a hill of beans, in comparison to other commodities, would not amount to much and thus came to represent a lack of significance or worth.

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

hill of beans

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The idiom "little frog in a big pond" is a figurative expression used to describe someone who feels insignificant or out of their depth in a larger or more competitive environment. The origin of this idiom is not well-documented, but it likely emerged from the observation of small frogs in large ponds or bodies of water where they might seem inconspicuous and vulnerable compared to their surroundings. It is often used to convey a sense of insecurity or discomfort in unfamiliar or overwhelming situations.

What is the origin of the idiom "little frog in a big pond" and when to use it?

little frog in a big pond

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The idiom "odds and ends" has been in use since at least the 17th century and likely originates from the idea of miscellaneous or leftover items being a collection of various "odds" (unmatched or irregular items) and "ends" (small fragments or remnants). This phrase is used to refer to a collection of small, miscellaneous, or unrelated items or things. It is used to imply that these items are not part of a larger, organized whole and may be of varied importance or value.

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

odds and ends

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The idiom "third wheel" originates from the world of transportation. In the early days of bicycles, tricycles, and other wheeled vehicles, it was common for a third, smaller wheel to be added for stability. When applied figuratively, the term refers to a person who feels left out or superfluous in the company of a couple, similar to the way an extra wheel on a bicycle might seem unnecessary and awkward. The third wheel often feels like they are intruding on an intimate or exclusive situation.

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

third wheel

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The idiom "no laughing matter" suggests that a situation is serious or should not be taken lightly. While its exact origin is not documented, the phrase likely developed over time as a way to emphasize the gravity of certain circumstances. It is used to convey that the subject at hand is not a source of amusement, humor, or triviality, but rather something deserving of sincere consideration and concern.

What is the origin of the idiom "no laughing matter" and when to use it?

no laughing matter

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The idiom "red herring" originates from a technique used in training hunting dogs. A red herring is a smoked and strongly scented fish, and it was used to distract or divert the hounds from the scent of the actual prey during training. In a figurative sense, this expression is used to refer to something that is misleading or a distraction, diverting attention away from the real issue or problem at hand.

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

red herring

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The idiom "small potatoes" originated in the United States during the 19th century and was associated with the idea of small, insignificant, or unimportant things. Potatoes were once considered a humble and inexpensive food, so this expression is used to suggest that something is of little value or consequence, like a meager or trivial portion of a meal.

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

to small potatoes

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The idiom "chopped liver" has Jewish origins and is commonly used in American English. It originates from a traditional Jewish dish called "gribenes," which consists of crispy bits of chicken or goose skin and onions that are often considered a delicacy. However, "gribenes" is not as highly regarded as chopped liver in Jewish cuisine, and thus the expression "What am I, chopped liver?" developed. This idiom is used to express feelings of being overlooked, unimportant, or undervalued, comparing oneself to something less significant.

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

chopped liver

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Dive into English idioms regarding importance and unimportance, like "red herring" and "loom large".

English Idioms for "Importance & Unimportance"