The idiom "a flea in one's ear" likely originated from the irritating and distracting nature of fleas. In this metaphorical expression, having "a flea in one's ear" conveys the idea of receiving an unwelcome or bothersome piece of information, advice, or criticism. The discomfort associated with a flea buzzing around one's ear parallels the annoyance or disturbance caused by unexpected or unwanted input. The idiom is often used to describe a surprising revelation, an unexpected challenge, or an annoying comment.

What is the origin of the idiom "a flea in one's ear" and when to use it?

a flea in {one's} [ear]

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The idiom "have a go" originates from British English and is derived from the notion of attempting or trying something. While its primary meaning is associated with making an effort, it can take on a different connotation. When used to critique or rebuke someone, it is used to suggest a direct and pointed expression of disapproval, often implying a harsh or stern tone.

What is the origin of the idiom "have a go" and when to use it?

to [have] a go

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The idiom "read someone the riot act" traces its origin to a British legal statute known as the Riot Act of 1715. This legislation granted authorities the power to disperse a gathering of 12 or more people unlawfully assembled, demanding that they disperse within an hour. Before taking further action, a proclamation, known as "reading the riot act," was read aloud to the crowd. The idiom has since evolved to signify delivering a stern warning, reprimand, or expression of disapproval to someone for their behavior.

What is the origin of the idiom "read someone the riot act" and when to use it?

to [read] {sb} the riot act

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The idiom "rake someone or something over the coals" has its origins in historical punishment practices, specifically the act of placing someone on a bed of hot coals as a form of torture or execution. Over time, the phrase evolved into a metaphorical expression, describing a severe scolding, reprimand, or criticism. The idiom is commonly used to convey a harsh evaluation or a thorough examination of behavior, actions, or work.

What is the origin of the idiom "rake someone or something over the coals" and when to use it?

to [rake] {sb/sth} over the coals

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to [drag] {sb/sth} over the coals

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The idiom "let someone have it" has its origins in a metaphorical extension of physical combat. Dating back to the early 20th century, it initially referred to delivering a forceful blow or attack. Over time, the expression evolved to include verbal confrontation or criticism, suggesting the delivery of a strong rebuke or scolding. The expression is used to convey a sense of confronting someone assertively or forcefully, either physically or verbally.

What is the origin of the idiom "let someone have it" and when to use it?

[let] {sb} have it

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The idiom "whale on someone or something" likely originates from the imagery of a whale striking its prey with powerful and forceful blows. In a figurative sense, this expression is used to convey a sense of intense and sustained criticism or reproach, very much like the forceful actions of a whale.

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

to [whale] on {sb/sth}

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The idiom "water off a duck's back" finds its origins in the observation that water rolls off a duck's waterproof feathers without penetrating or affecting the bird. This metaphorical expression conveys the idea that criticism, insults, or negative comments have no impact or effect on a person, similar to how water doesn't stick to a duck's feathers. It is used to suggest resilience and encourage the ability to remain unaffected by adverse situations or remarks.

What is the origin of the idiom "water off a duck's back" and when to use it?

water off a duck's back

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The idiom "in the firing line" originated from military terminology, specifically referring to the line of soldiers designated to shoot at the enemy. The firing line is the front-line position where soldiers face direct confrontation and potential danger. Over time, the phrase has transitioned into everyday language, symbolizing a situation where someone is directly involved in a challenging or risky circumstance. It is often used to describe being under intense criticism or facing the primary challenges in a particular endeavor.

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

(in|on) the firing line

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The idiom "be on the receiving end" originated from the idea of being the recipient or target of something, often actions or behaviors from others. It conveys the position of experiencing the impact or effects of a particular situation or action, whether positive or negative. The idiom is can be applied to various contexts where someone is affected by the actions, words, or consequences initiated by others.

What is the origin of the idiom "be on the receiving end" and when to use it?

[be] on the receiving end

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The idiom "in full cry" has its origins in the world of hunting, particularly referring to the pursuit of hounds or hunting dogs when they are fervently and audibly chasing prey. The term "cry" in this context doesn't imply sadness but rather the baying, barking, or howling sounds made by the dogs during the chase. Over time, the expression transitioned into broader usage, indicating a state of energetic, enthusiastic, or unrestrained activity or pursuit.

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

in full cry

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The idiom "throw cold water on something" originated in the 19th century and refers to the act of discouraging or dampening enthusiasm for an idea, plan, or proposal. The metaphorical use of cold water suggests the cooling or extinguishing of excitement, much like pouring water on a hot or burning object. The expression is commonly used to convey the idea of discouraging or criticizing someone's ambitions or plans.

What is the origin of the idiom "throw cold water on something" and when to use it?

to [throw|pour] cold water on {sth}

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The idiom "the pot calling the kettle black" has its origins in a literal context. In the past, both pots and kettles were typically made of cast iron and were placed over an open flame for cooking. With exposure to heat, both would become blackened with soot. The phrase evolved into a metaphorical expression, suggesting hypocrisy or irony, wherein one person accuses another of a fault or behavior that they themselves are guilty of. This expression is used to  highlight the inconsistency or lack of self-awareness in the accuser, likening them to the very thing they criticize.

What is the origin of the idiom "the pot calling the kettle black" and when to use it?

the pot calling the kettle black

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The idiom "take a beating" originated from the literal sense of enduring physical blows or attacks. It evolved into a figurative expression to describe facing strong negative feedback, criticism, or verbal abuse. This phrase is used to  emphasize the challenging and often unpleasant nature of enduring harsh words or severe criticism, akin to the physical experience of withstanding a beating.

What is the origin of the idiom "take a beating" and when to use it?

to [take] a beating

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Master English idioms regarding criticism, like "be on the receiving end" and "throw cold water on".

English Idioms for "Criticism"