The idiom "water under the bridge" originated from the metaphorical concept of water flowing beneath a bridge and moving away from the observer. It signifies that a past event or issue has been resolved, forgiven, or forgotten, and it should no longer be a source of concern or contention. The phrase is used to convey the idea that the past is in the past, and it is not worth dwelling on or holding onto grudges or regrets.

What is the origin of the idiom "water under the bridge" and when to use it?

water under the bridge

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The idiom "blazing row" originated from the literal image of a fire or blaze that symbolizes intense heat and fervor. It refers to a heated and intense argument or dispute between individuals or groups, characterized by strong emotions, raised voices, and a confrontational atmosphere. The phrase is often used to convey the idea of a conflict that is marked by intense passion and a lack of restraint, often resulting in a volatile and explosive exchange of words.

What is the origin of the idiom "blazing row" and when to use it?

blazing row

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The idiom "jump down one's throat" originated from the literal image of a sudden and aggressive action of someone physically leaping or attacking another person's throat. Figuratively, the phrase is used to convey the idea of a swift and forceful response, indicating that the person delivering the criticism is quick to react and express their disapproval or anger.

What is the origin of the idiom "jump down one's throat" and when to use it?

to [jump] down {one's} throat

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The idiom "have it out with someone" originated from the idea of fully addressing or resolving a conflict or disagreement by engaging in a direct and often heated discussion or argument. The phrase is mostly used to convey the idea of a thorough and candid exchange of views, where both parties have an opportunity to express themselves fully.

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

to [have] it out with {sb}

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The idiom "do not get me started" originated from the idea of avoiding a topic or subject that elicits strong emotions or opinions in the speaker. It is a statement used to caution others against initiating a conversation or discussion on a particular topic that the speaker feels passionate or strongly opinionated about. It is most often used as a warning to others to refrain from engaging the speaker on that specific subject.

What is the origin of the idiom "do not get me started" and when to use it?

do not get me started

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The idiom "go hammer and tongs" originated from the literal image of blacksmiths vigorously wielding hammers and tongs to shape and forge metal. Figuratively, it signifies a situation or conflict where individuals or groups are engaged in a fierce, intense, and often heated confrontation or competition. In other words, the phrase is mostly used to convey the idea of an aggressive and relentless pursuit or attack, where all parties involved are fully committed and determined to achieve their objectives.

What is the origin of the idiom "go hammer and tongs" and when to use it?

to [go|be] (at it|) hammer and tongs

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The idiom "the lion's den" originated from the biblical story of Daniel, who was thrown into a den of lions as a punishment for his faith. Figuratively, it refers to a dangerous or highly challenging situation in which a person finds themselves surrounded by powerful adversaries or hostile circumstances. The phrase is primarily used to convey the idea of being in a perilous and potentially life-threatening environment, where one must exhibit courage, resilience, and resourcefulness to navigate through the difficulties.

What is the origin of the idiom "the lion's den" and when to use it?

the lion's den

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The idiom "teach one's grandmother to suck eggs" is believed to have originated in the 18th century. It refers to the act of offering unsolicited advice or instruction to someone who is already experienced or knowledgeable in that particular area. The phrase humorously suggests that it is unnecessary to try to teach someone a skill or knowledge they already possess, especially when the person providing the advice is less experienced or knowledgeable than the recipient.

What is the origin of the idiom "teach one's grandmother to suck eggs" and when to use it?

to [teach] {one's} [grandmother] (how|) to suck eggs

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The idiom "cut off one's nose to spite one's face" has its origins in the ancient practice of self-mutilation as a form of revenge or protest. Figuratively, it refers to an act of self-destructive behavior or decision-making motivated by a desire to harm someone else, often resulting in unintended consequences that ultimately harm oneself.

What is the origin of the idiom "cut off one's nose to spite one's face" and when to use it?

to [cut] off {one's} [nose] to spite {one's} face

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The idiom "show someone the door" originates from the literal act of physically escorting or indicating to someone that they should leave a place. Figuratively, it means to make it clear to someone that they are no longer welcome or wanted, usually due to their behavior, actions, or attitudes. The phrase conveys the idea of dismissing or removing someone from a situation or environment in a direct and unambiguous manner.

What is the origin of the idiom "show someone the door" and when to use it?

to [show] {sb} the door

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The idiom "swear a blue streak" originated from the idea of using profanity or vulgar language with such intensity and rapidity that it creates the impression of a continuous stream of blue (vulgar) language. Figuratively, it is used to refer to the act of expressing extreme anger, frustration, or annoyance by using a rapid and continuous string of curse words.

What is the origin of the idiom "swear a blue streak" and when to use it?

to [swear|curse] a blue streak

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The origin of the idiom "monkey in the middle" can be traced back to the game of catch or soccer, where players form a circle and try to keep the ball away from one participant positioned in the middle. Figuratively, it refers to a situation where someone is caught or trapped between two opposing forces or groups, often being used as a target or subject of teasing, manipulation, or exclusion.

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

monkey in the middle

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The idiom "running battle" originated from military terminology and tactics, specifically the concept of a continuous, ongoing conflict or engagement between opposing forces. Figuratively, it refers to a prolonged and ongoing struggle or dispute in which one is constantly engaged with an adversary, often characterized by frequent confrontations or challenges. The phrase conveys the idea of a persistent and dynamic conflict that requires continuous effort and resilience to navigate.

What is the origin of the idiom "running battle" and when to use it?

running battle

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The idiom "shouting match" originated from the literal act of engaging in a heated argument or disagreement that involves loud and intense shouting between two or more individuals. Figuratively, this expression is used to convey the idea of a confrontational verbal confrontation where emotions run high and rational discourse is abandoned.

What is the origin of the idiom "shouting match" and when to use it?

shouting match

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The idiom "call off the dogs" originated from the practice of using dogs to hunt and capture prey, particularly in the context of hunting or pursuing criminals. The phrase conveys the idea of ending a vigorous or relentless pursuit or aggression, typically in response to a request or realization that further pursuit is unnecessary or counterproductive.

What is the origin of the idiom "call off the dogs" and when to use it?

to [call] off the dogs

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The idiom "battle of wills" originated from the concept of individuals or entities engaging in a struggle or conflict based on their strong and opposing desires, intentions, or determination. This expression is mainly used to convey the idea of a confrontation or disagreement where each side is unwavering and resolute in pursuing their own objectives, often resulting in a protracted and intense struggle.

What is the origin of the idiom "battle of wills" and when to use it?

(battle|clash) of wills

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The idiom "lock horns" originated from the literal behavior of certain animals, such as deer or bulls, who engage in combat by clashing their horns together during a territorial dispute or a struggle for dominance. The phrase is now used to convey the idea of a direct and confrontational engagement where both parties are firmly asserting their positions and are unwilling to back down.

What is the origin of the idiom "lock horns" and when to use it?

to [lock] horns

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Dive into English idioms regarding arguments, like "call off the dogs" and "blazing row".

English Idioms for "Argument"