The idiom "in name only" originated from the idea of something being designated or referred to by a particular name or title, but lacking the corresponding qualities, characteristics, or substance typically associated with that name. The phrase signifies that the reference to the name is merely symbolic or nominal, without any real or significant presence or effect.The idiom is commonly used to describe situations where something is claimed or described as being a certain way, but in reality, it does not truly embody or fulfill the expectations or requirements associated with that designation.

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

in name (only|alone)

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The idiom "keep up appearances" originated from the notion of maintaining a certain outward image or perception, often to conceal or disguise one's true circumstances, feelings, or intentions. The phrase signifies the act of presenting oneself or one's surroundings in a manner that upholds a desired impression or societal expectations, regardless of the underlying reality. This expression is commonly used to describe situations where individuals or groups make efforts to appear a certain way externally, even if it contradicts their internal state or actual circumstances.

What is the origin of the idiom "keep up appearances" and when to use it?

to [keep] up appearances

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The idiom "lip service" originated from the concept of making verbal expressions or statements of support, agreement, or praise without genuine sincerity or intention to follow through. The phrase signifies the act of saying something to appease or please others, without actual commitment or action behind the words. This idiomatic expression is commonly used to describe situations where someone pays verbal tribute or acknowledgment to a cause, idea, or person, but their actions do not align with their professed words.

What is the origin of the idiom "lip service" and when to use it?

lip service

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The idiom "put one's money where one's mouth is" originated from the idea that actions speak louder than words, particularly when it comes to backing up one's statements or claims with financial commitment or tangible action. The phrase signifies the act of demonstrating genuine belief or commitment by investing one's resources or taking practical steps to support or fulfill what one has advocated or promised. The phrase is commonly used to challenge someone to back up their assertions or promises with concrete action or financial support.

What is the origin of the idiom "put one's money where one's mouth is" and when to use it?

to [put] {one's} money where {one's} [mouth] [is]

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The idiom "wolf in sheep's clothing" has its origin in the biblical reference found in the Gospel of Matthew (7:15): "Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves." The phrase signifies a person or thing that appears harmless, innocent, or gentle on the surface but conceals malicious, deceitful, or dangerous intentions. This expression is now commonly used to warn against trusting or being deceived by individuals or situations that mask their true sinister or harmful intentions.

What is the origin of the idiom "wolf in sheep's clothing" and when to use it?

wolf in (sheep's|lamb's) clothing

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The origin of the idiom "play dead" can be traced back to the animal kingdom, particularly to the behavior of certain prey animals when faced with a predator. The phrase signifies the act of feigning death or immobility as a defensive strategy to deceive or confuse the predator. By appearing lifeless, the prey hopes to discourage further pursuit or attack. This phrase is mostly used metaphorically to describe situations where someone acts as if they are uninvolved, unaware, or unaffected by a particular situation or conflict.

What is the origin of the idiom "play dead" and when to use it?

to [play] dead

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The origin of the idiom "put on a brave face" is rooted in the idea of maintaining a facade of strength, courage, or composure despite facing difficulties, challenges, or adversity. The phrase signifies the act of deliberately concealing one's true feelings, fears, or vulnerabilities behind a mask of bravery or confidence. It is often used to describe situations where individuals make a conscious effort to appear strong and optimistic outwardly, regardless of their internal struggles or fears.

What is the origin of the idiom "put on a brave face" and when to use it?

to [put] on a brave (face|front)

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The idiom "play it cool" has its origin in jazz music culture during the mid-20th century. It refers to the act of maintaining a calm, composed, and nonchalant demeanor, especially in situations that may elicit excitement, nervousness, or anticipation. Over time, this phrase has become more widely used to describe any situation where someone deliberately acts detached or indifferent to project a sense of confidence or to avoid drawing attention to themselves.

What is the origin of the idiom "play it cool" and when to use it?

to [play] it cool

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The idiom "cry wolf" originates from one of Aesop's fables, specifically "The Boy Who Cried Wolf." In this fable, a young shepherd repeatedly raises a false alarm about a wolf attacking the flock, causing nearby villagers to rush to his aid. However, when a real wolf finally appears and the boy cries for help, the villagers no longer believe him, assuming it to be another false alarm. This expression has since come to mean the act of giving false alarms or exaggerating dangers or problems to the point where genuine issues are met with skepticism or disbelief.

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

to [cry] wolf

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The idiom "crocodile tears" traces its origin to an ancient belief that crocodiles shed tears while consuming their prey. However, this idea is scientifically inaccurate as crocodiles do not express genuine emotions. Nevertheless, the phrase "crocodile tears" has come to represent insincere or hypocritical displays of sorrow or remorse. This expression is used to convey the idea of false sympathy or remorse, emphasizing the insincerity or ulterior motives behind someone's emotional display.

What is the origin of the idiom "crocodile tears" and when to use it?

crocodile tears

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The idiom "butter would not melt in one's mouth" originates from the idea that if someone's demeanor or behavior is as innocent and pure as butter, it would not melt even in their mouth. The phrase is primarily used to convey the idea of someone appearing or pretending to be extremely innocent, demure, or well-behaved, despite potentially possessing a deceptive or mischievous nature. In other words, it is used to describe individuals who feign innocence or act in a way that hides their true intentions or mischievous nature.

What is the origin of the idiom "butter would not melt in one's mouth" and when to use it?

butter would not melt in {one's} mouth

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The idiom "put on an act" originated from the world of theater, where actors would wear costumes and assume roles to portray fictional characters on stage. The phrase signifies the deliberate act of pretending or feigning a particular behavior, emotion, or persona to deceive or manipulate others and is commonly used to describe situations where someone intentionally behaves in a manner inconsistent with their genuine feelings or intentions, often for the purpose of gaining an advantage or masking their true motives.

What is the origin of the idiom "put on an act" and when to use it?

to [put] on an act

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The idiom "accidentally on purpose" originated from the English language and is used to describe a situation where someone intentionally performs an action but pretends that it was unintentional or accidental. The phrase combines the contradictory notions of intention and accident to convey a subtle form of deception or manipulation. It implies that the person has a hidden motive or agenda behind their seemingly accidental behavior, often aiming to achieve a specific outcome while maintaining plausible deniability.

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

accidentally on purpose

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The idiom "stool pigeon" originated in the 19th century and is used to refer to a person who acts as an informant or betrayer, particularly in criminal contexts. The term finds its roots in the practice of trapping pigeons by placing a stool or decoy bird to attract them. This idiom carries a negative connotation, suggesting duplicity and disloyalty in one's actions.

What is the origin of the idiom "stool pigeon" and when to use it?

stool pigeon

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The idiom "play possum" originated in North America and refers to a behavior exhibited by the Virginia opossum, a marsupial native to the region. When threatened or attacked, the opossum often goes into a defensive mode where it appears motionless and feigns death. This behavior is believed to have given rise to the idiom "play possum." This idiom phrase is used to suggest a strategy of appearing defenseless or vulnerable to deter or confuse potential threats.

What is the origin of the idiom "play possum" and when to use it?

to [play] possum

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The idiom "paper tiger" originated from Chinese culture and is derived from the Chinese phrase "zhilaohu". It gained prominence through Mao Zedong's usage during the mid-20th century. The idiom refers to something or someone that appears threatening or powerful but is actually weak, ineffective, or lacking substance. The term "paper tiger" evokes the image of a tiger made of paper, which may seem fierce and intimidating at first glance but is easily torn apart or defeated. It is used metaphorically to describe situations, organizations, or individuals that boast power or aggression but fail to demonstrate true strength or capability when challenged.

What is the origin of the idiom "paper tiger" and when to use it?

paper tiger

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The idiom "whistle in the dark" has its origin in the idea of using sound to dispel fear or create a sense of comfort in the darkness. The phrase metaphorically refers to an act of feigning bravery or confidence in a situation that is uncertain, dangerous, or unsettling. Just as someone might whistle to alleviate their fear when walking alone in the dark, "whistle in the dark" implies putting on a brave front or attempting to maintain optimism in the face of uncertainty or adversity.

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

[whistle] in the dark

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The idiom "turn on the waterworks" originated from the theatrical practice of using waterworks, such as hidden pipes or mechanisms, to create the illusion of tears during emotional scenes on stage. In the early 19th century, before the invention of special effects or artificial tears, actors would activate these waterworks to produce a flow of tears, enhancing the dramatic impact of their performances. Over time, the phrase "turn on the waterworks" became a figurative expression, referring to someone deliberately and ostentatiously shedding tears or displaying exaggerated sadness or grief.

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

to [turn] on the waterworks

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The idiom "champagne taste on a beer budget" originated from the concept of having expensive or luxurious preferences but limited financial means. Champagne, known for its association with wealth and luxury, represents extravagant and refined tastes, while a beer budget implies having a modest or restricted amount of money to spend. The phrase is mainly used to highlight the contrast between one's desired lifestyle or preferences and their actual financial resources, emphasizing the need to adjust expectations or desires within the limitations of their budget.

What is the origin of the idiom "champagne taste on a beer budget" and when to use it?

champagne taste on a beer budget

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The idiom "strike an attitude of something" originates from the world of theater and performance. In this context, "strike" refers to assuming or adopting a particular pose or position, and "attitude" refers to a specific stance or physical expression that conveys a particular emotion, mood, or characteristic. The idiom is used metaphorically to describe the act of deliberately adopting or projecting a specific demeanor, mindset, or behavior in a given situation, often for the purpose of making an impression or conveying a particular message.

What is the origin of the idiom "strike an attitude of something" and when to use it?

to [strike] an attitude of {sth}

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Discover how English idioms like "keep up appearances" and "crocodile tears" relate to pretenses in English.

English Idioms for "Pretense"