The idiom "fly on the wall" originated from the idea of being an inconspicuous observer in a room, able to witness events or conversations without being noticed. This metaphorical expression reflects the desire to be unobtrusive and gain insight into situations without influencing them. The concept likely draws from the notion of a small, unnoticed insect observing events from a strategic vantage point. Over time, the idiom has become a popular way to describe the act of quietly observing or eavesdropping on conversations, often to gain a candid understanding of a situation.

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

fly on the wall

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The idiom "pull the strings" originates from puppetry, where the manipulation of strings controls the movements of a puppet. The phrase has metaphorically evolved to signify the act of exercising control or influence over a situation or people, often in a behind-the-scenes or covert manner.

What is the origin of the idiom "pull the strings" and when to use it?

to [pull] the strings

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The idiom "under the radar" originates from military aviation, referring to flying at an altitude or in a manner that avoids detection by radar systems. The phrase has since evolved into a metaphorical expression, signifying actions or activities that go unnoticed or escape attention, often intentionally. In a broader context, "under the radar" suggests a subtle or inconspicuous approach, allowing someone or something to operate discreetly or avoid scrutiny.

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

under the radar

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The idiom "behind closed doors" originated from the literal notion of conducting activities or discussions in a private or confidential setting, away from public view. The phrase alludes to the practice of closing doors to create a barrier between the inside and outside world, ensuring privacy and discretion. It is commonly used to describe situations where important or secretive matters are being discussed or decisions are being made privately, without public scrutiny or interference, often implying that the truth or true nature of something is hidden or undisclosed.

What is the origin of the idiom "behind closed doors" and when to use it?

behind closed doors

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The idiom "behind the scenes" originated from the world of theater and stage performances, where it refers to the areas and activities that occur out of sight of the audience. It denotes the backstage area where actors, crew members, and technicians work together to make a production successful. Over time, the phrase has been adopted metaphorically to describe the hidden or less visible aspects of any event, organization, or process. It is used to implie that there is more happening than what is readily apparent to the public or observers, providing insight into the inner workings, complexities, and effort involved in achieving a desired outcome.

What is the origin of the idiom "behind the scenes" and when to use it?

behind the scenes

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The idiom "black book" originated from the practice of maintaining a personal record or ledger, traditionally bound in black covers, in which individuals would note down the names and contact information of people they wished to keep private or secret communications with. Over time, the phrase "black book" has come to symbolize a list of individuals with whom someone maintains hidden or discreet connections, often implying secretive or illicit activities.

What is the origin of the idiom "black book" and when to use it?

black book

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The idiom "in cahoots" originated from the late 19th century American slang term "cahoot," which referred to a partnership or collaboration between individuals for a common purpose, often with a secretive or illicit undertone. The phrase "in cahoots" emerged from this term and is used to describe a close association or collusion between two or more people who are working together, often in a secretive or conspiratorial manner, to achieve a shared objective.

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

in cahoots

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The idiom "have designs on something" originated from the concept of designing or planning a specific outcome or goal. The phrase suggests that a person has ambitious intentions or a strategic plan to achieve or acquire something, often with a sense of determination or calculated pursuit. It implies having a clear objective in mind and actively working towards it, sometimes with underlying motivations that may not be immediately apparent.

What is the origin of the idiom "have designs on something" and when to use it?

to [have] designs on {sth}

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The origin of the idiom "laugh up one's sleeve" can be traced back to medieval times when it was customary for people to wear large, loose sleeves. The phrase signifies a hidden or secret amusement, where one suppresses laughter by covering their mouth with their sleeve to avoid drawing attention. It is used to convey a sense of smug or sly amusement, often at the expense of someone else, while attempting to conceal it from others.

What is the origin of the idiom "laugh up one's sleeve" and when to use it?

to [laugh] up {one's} sleeve

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The idiom "like a thief in the night" originates from biblical scripture, specifically from the New Testament, 1 Thessalonians 5:2. The phrase is used metaphorically to depict something or someone that arrives or happens unexpectedly, swiftly, and surreptitiously, much like the actions of a thief who operates under the cover of darkness. It conveys a sense of suddenness, stealth, and surprise, often carrying negative implications or connotations.

What is the origin of the idiom "like a thief in the night" and when to use it?

like a thief in the night

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The idiom "groan inwardly" originated from the literal act of emitting a groan or expressing discomfort internally, without making it audible or apparent to others. It signifies a silent or suppressed reaction to an unpleasant or frustrating situation, often indicating a feeling of exasperation, disappointment, or annoyance. The phrase is used to emphasize the internalized nature of the response, conveying a sense of restraint or self-control in not outwardly expressing one's emotions.

What is the origin of the idiom "groan inwardly" and when to use it?

to [groan] inwardly

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The idiom "in league with someone or something" has its origin in the concept of alliances and partnerships. The term "league" refers to a formal agreement or association between individuals or groups pursuing common goals or interests. Therefore, the phrase "in league with someone" suggests being in a cooperative or conspiratorial relationship with that person, typically with shared objectives or secret collaboration. It is used to imply a close association or partnership, often with a sense of shared responsibility or complicity.

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

in league with {sb/sth}

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The idiom "on the q.t." originated from the phrase "quiet as a cat," which was later shortened to "quiet as a QT." Over time, "QT" evolved to "q.t." and eventually became the idiom "on the q.t." It refers to keeping something secret, confidential, or discreetly hidden from others. The phrase implies a need for caution or secrecy, often suggesting that the information or activity being discussed should not be openly disclosed or shared.

What is the origin of the idiom "on the q.t." and when to use it?

on the q.t.

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The idiom "on the sly" originated from the word "sly," which means cunning or crafty. The phrase refers to doing something secretly or discreetly, without others' knowledge or approval. It is used to convey a sense of stealthiness or furtiveness in one's actions, often implying that the activity being discussed is meant to be concealed or kept hidden from others' awareness.

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

on the sly

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The idiom "through the back door" originates from the literal concept of entering or exiting a building through the rear entrance instead of the main or formal entrance. Metaphorically, the phrase signifies achieving or obtaining something by using unconventional, indirect, or secretive means rather than following the usual or expected route or process. It is used to imply a sense of bypassing established rules, norms, or procedures, often with the intention of gaining an advantage or avoiding scrutiny or attention.

What is the origin of the idiom "through the back door" and when to use it?

through the back door

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The term "dog whistle" originally referred to a whistle used in dog training, emitting a sound only audible to dogs. Over time, it evolved to describe messages with hidden meanings. Just as only dogs can hear certain frequencies, only certain people can understand the hidden message. It is often used in discussions about politics, media, advertising, and social issues, where messages may contain subtle cues or references intended to appeal to a particular audience without explicitly stating the message.

What is the origin of the idiom "dog whistle" and when to use it?

dog whistle

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Explore English idioms regarding secrecy with examples like "pull the stings" and "on the sly".

English Idioms for "Secrecy"