the thing is

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The idiom "for what it is worth" is often used to preface an opinion or statement, expressing the speaker's sense of humility or uncertainty about the value of their input. Its origins can be traced back to the 1966 song "For What It's Worth (Stop, Hey What's That Sound)" by Buffalo Springfield, which captured the social and political turmoil of the era. The phrase has since become a common idiom, used in various contexts to convey tentativeness or a lack of absolute confidence in one's words.

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

for what it is worth

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The origin of the idiom "set in one's ways" can be traced back to the early 19th century. The term "set" in this context refers to becoming fixed or firmly established in a particular pattern or behavior. The phrase likely evolved from the idea of setting or hardening materials, such as clay or cement, which become rigid and unyielding once they have solidified. It is often employed when discussing someone's behavior, attitudes, or preferences that have become fixed and unyielding over time.

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

[set] in {one's} ways

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The idiom "speak one's mind" dates back to the 16th century and refers to the act of expressing one's thoughts and opinions openly and honestly, even if they are controversial or unpopular. It is often used to convey a sense of courage and conviction, suggesting that the speaker is not afraid to say what they believe, even if it means causing offense or upsetting others.

What is the origin of the idiom "speak one's mind" and when to use it?

to [speak] {one's} mind

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to [shift] {one's} ground

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The idiom "think little of someone" is a versatile expression that conveys a negative opinion or low regard for an individual. It can be traced back to the 14th century, with early instances using the phrase "to thinke litel of" or "to thinke smale of." The idiom has evolved over time, incorporating various synonyms for "little" to emphasize the depth of disapproval or disdain.

What is the origin of the idiom "think little of someone" and when to use it?

to [think] (little|badly|poorly) of {sb}

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The idiom "think nothing of something" has been in use since the 1500s and refers to considering something to be easy, unimportant, or inconsequential. It suggests that something doesn't require much effort or thought and can be done without difficulty or hesitation. The phrase is often used to contrast the speaker's ability or experience with the perceived ease of the task or situation.

What is the origin of the idiom "think nothing of something" and when to use it?

to [think] nothing of {sth}

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The idiom "think outside the box" has been in use since the 1960s and refers to approaching a problem or situation creatively and unconventionally, breaking out of traditional patterns of thinking to find innovative solutions. It is often used to suggest that by setting aside assumptions and considering new perspectives, one can find fresh approaches that lead to breakthroughs.

What is the origin of the idiom "think outside the box" and when to use it?

to [think] outside the box

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The idiom "in a new light" is believed to have originated in the 17th century, likely inspired by the concept of light as a metaphor for understanding or enlightenment. The phrase is used to suggest that someone or something is perceived or understood in a fresh or altered way.

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

in a (new|different) light

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The idiom "take it from me" is believed to have originated in the 17th century and is used to express confidence in the veracity of one's statement or opinion. It is used to suggest that the speaker has personal experience or knowledge that supports their assertion, making their words more credible and persuasive.

What is the origin of the idiom "take it from me" and when to use it?

take it from me

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The origin of the idiom "take it from someone" is not very well-documented. It is a common idiom used to express certainty or confidence in a statement or opinion. This expression is used to suggest that the speaker has personal experience or knowledge that supports their assertion, making their words more credible and persuasive.

What is the origin of the idiom "take it from someone" and when to use it?

to take it from someone

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The idiom "gut feeling" is believed to have originated in the 19th century and refers to an instinctive or intuitive belief or impression that is not based on conscious reasoning or evidence. It is used to suggest that the speaker has a deep-seated sense or hunch about something, often without being able to fully explain or justify it.

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

gut (feeling|reaction)

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The idiom "a word to the wise" is believed to have originated in the 16th century and is used to preface advice or a warning, often given in a gentle or informal manner. It suggests that the speaker is imparting valuable information or guidance that the listener should consider and act upon.

What is the origin of the idiom "a word to the wise" and when to use it?

a word to the wise

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The precise origin of the idiom "to run deep" is uncertain. However, it appears to have emerged during the 15th century, with usage examples from the 1400s. The idiom is more generally used to convey the idea that something is deeply ingrained, established, or persistent. It can be used to describe feelings, problems, beliefs, involvements, or interests.

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

to [run] deep

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The idiom "straight from the shoulder" is believed to have originated in the 17th century and is used to describe someone who is direct, honest, and forceful in their communication. It suggests that the speaker is not afraid to speak their mind, even if their words are blunt or unpleasant. The phrase is often used in a positive context to convey respect for someone's courage and sincerity.

What is the origin of the idiom "straight from the shoulder" and when to use it?

straight from the shoulder

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The idiom "to my knowledge" is believed to have originated in the 16th century and is used to indicate that the speaker is stating something based on their knowledge or understanding. This expression is used to suggest that the speaker is being honest and upfront about their level of certainty regarding the information they are providing.

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

to (the best of|) my knowledge

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The idiom "shoot off one's mouth" is believed to have originated in the 18th century and is used to describe someone who talks too much without thinking, often saying things that are impulsive, insensitive, or foolish. It is used to suggest that the speaker lacks discretion and self-control, often blurting out whatever comes to mind without considering the consequences.

What is the origin of the idiom "shoot off one's mouth" and when to use it?

to [shoot] off {one's} mouth

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The idiom "in one's bad books" is believed to have originated in the 17th century. It is thought to have come from the practice of keeping records of debts and other financial transactions in books. This expression is used to describe someone who is disliked or disfavored by another person.

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

in {one's} bad books

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The idiom "in one's good books" is believed to have originated in the 17th century and is used to describe someone who is favored or well-liked by another person. It is often used to suggest that the speaker has a positive relationship with the person in question and is in their good graces. The phrase is often used to express relief or satisfaction at being in someone's good favor.

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

in {one's} good books

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The idiom "change one's tune" is believed to have originated in the 14th century. It is thought to have come from the practice of minstrels who would change the words of their songs to suit their audience. If a minstrel was performing for a king or other important person, they would sing songs that were flattering and respectful. However, if they were performing for a group of commoners, they would sing songs that were more lighthearted or even bawdy. This idiomatic expression is used to describe someone who has changed their opinion or stance on a particular issue.

What is the origin of the idiom "change one's tune" and when to use it?

to [change] {one's} tune

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The idiom "know where someone stands" likely originates from the idea of having a clear and defined position or status in a particular situation, relationship, or interaction. It is used to signify having a comprehensive understanding of how one is perceived, valued, or regarded by another person.

What is the origin of the idiom "know where someone stands" and when to use it?

to [know] where {sb} [stand]

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to {not} [have] a good word to say (for|about) {sth}

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The idiom "hold one's tongue" originates from the idea of physically and literally holding or stopping the tongue to prevent speech. Historically, this phrase has been used to advise or command someone to remain silent, especially in situations where speaking might be inappropriate, unwise, or harmful, meaning refraining from saying something to avoid conflict, maintain decorum, or prevent the spread of unnecessary or harmful information.

What is the origin of the idiom "hold one's tongue" and when to use it?

to [hold]  {one's} tongue

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Dive into English idioms that relate to expressing opinions, like "think outside the box" and "take it from me".

English Idioms for "Expressing Opinions"