The idiom "chapter and verse" has its origin in religious texts, specifically referencing the Bible. It signifies providing precise and specific details or references, often in a meticulous or comprehensive manner. The phrase draws on the practice of citing specific chapters and verses from the Bible to support or justify an argument or point of view. It is primarily used to convey the idea of thoroughness and accuracy in referencing or quoting relevant passages, emphasizing the use of explicit and authoritative sources to strengthen one's position.

What is the origin of the idiom "chapter and verse" and when to use it?

chapter and verse

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The idiom "facts and figures" originated from the practice of presenting statistical data and concrete information to support or illustrate a point. It emphasizes the use of factual evidence and numerical data to provide a comprehensive and objective understanding of a particular subject or situation. In other words, the phrase suggests that relying on accurate and verifiable information enhances the credibility and validity of an argument or analysis, enabling a more informed and evidence-based discussion.

What is the origin of the idiom "facts and figures" and when to use it?

facts and figures

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The idiom "more than meets the eye" originated from the notion that there is often a deeper or hidden meaning, significance, or complexity to a person, situation, or object that may not be immediately apparent upon initial observation. The phrase is used only to suggest that there is something beyond the surface level or initial impression, emphasizing the need for further exploration or investigation to fully understand or appreciate the true nature or extent of something.

What is the origin of the idiom "more than meets the eye" and when to use it?

more than meets the eye

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The phrase "nightmare dressed like a daydream" originated from the lyrics of the song "Blank Space" by Taylor Swift, released in 2014. The line is used metaphorically to suggest a deceptive or illusory appearance that initially seems pleasant or enticing, much like a daydream, but later reveals itself to be a distressing or nightmarish experience. In other words, it is mainly used to convey the idea of a situation or person that initially appears attractive or desirable but ultimately proves to be problematic, challenging, or unsettling.

What is the origin of the idiom "nightmare dressed like a daydream and when to use it?

nightmare dressed like a daydream

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The idiom "poker face" originated from the world of poker, a card game where players attempt to conceal their emotions and maintain a neutral facial expression to avoid giving away their hand or intentions. The phrase is used to signify the ability to keep a calm and composed demeanor, showing no visible signs of one's thoughts, feelings, or intentions.

What is the origin of the idiom "poker face" and when to use it?

poker face

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The idiom "on the face of it" originated from the notion of evaluating or judging something based on its surface appearance or initial impression. It implies that the observed or apparent characteristics suggest a particular understanding or conclusion, but further examination or consideration may reveal a different or more complex reality. The phrase emphasizes the need to delve deeper or look beyond the superficial aspects to obtain a more accurate understanding or assessment of a situation or subject.

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

on the face of it

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The idiom "scratch the surface" originates from the concept of shallowly or lightly removing a thin layer from the surface of an object. Metaphorically, it implies a limited or superficial understanding or exploration of a subject or topic, without delving deeper into its complexities or underlying details. In other words, the phrase is used to emphasize the need for further investigation or analysis to gain a more comprehensive understanding or uncover hidden aspects.

What is the origin of the idiom "scratch the surface" and when to use it?

to [scratch|scrape] the surface

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The origin of the idiom "blessing in disguise" can be traced back to the 18th century. It was popularized by the Irish writer and poet, Oliver Goldsmith, in his 1766 comedy play titled "The Good-Natur'd Man." The phrase is used to suggest that what may seem like a setback or misfortune at first can turn out to be advantageous or fortunate in the long run, contrary to initial expectations.

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

blessing in disguise

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The idiom "bird's eye view" originated from the concept of viewing something from a high vantage point, similar to how a bird sees the world from above. The phrase is mainly used to emphasize the ability to observe or comprehend something from a detached and comprehensive standpoint, providing a broader understanding or context.

What is the origin of the idiom "bird's eye view" and when to use it?

bird's eye view

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The idiom "see the forest for the trees" originated from the idea of being so focused on individual trees that one fails to perceive the larger picture or overall situation. It highlights the tendency to become preoccupied with minor details and lose sight of the broader context or main point. In other words, the expression is used to emphasize the need to step back and gain a more comprehensive perspective, recognizing the significance of the collective elements rather than getting lost in the specifics.

What is the origin of the idiom "see the forest for the trees" and when to use it?

to [see] the forest for the trees

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The idiom "the devil is in the detail" originated from the longer phrase "God is in the detail," which is often attributed to the German architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Over time, the phrase evolved to its present form, suggesting that hidden difficulties or complications can arise from small or overlooked details. It is used to emphasize the importance of thoroughness and diligence in dealing with the finer aspects of a task or situation.

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

the devil is in the [detail]

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The origin of the idiom "dot the i's and cross the t's" can be traced back to the carefulness required in handwriting, particularly in the formation of letters. The phrase is mainly used to signifie the act of paying careful attention to small details, specifically the completion of all necessary tasks and ensuring that nothing is overlooked or left unfinished.

What is the origin of the idiom "dot the i's and cross the t's" and when to use it?

to [dot] the i's and [cross] the t's

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The idiom "the power behind the throne" originated from the historical context of monarchy and royal courts. It is used to refer to an influential person or group who wields significant influence and control over decision-making, despite not being the public face of authority. All in all, the phrase symbolizes the idea that while a monarch or leader may hold the official position, there are individuals or factions who hold substantial power and shape the course of events behind the scenes.

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

the power behind the throne

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The idiom "in broad strokes" originates from the world of visual art, particularly painting. It refers to a technique where the artist uses wide and generalized brushstrokes to create a basic outline or representation of a subject, without focusing on intricate details. Metaphorically, the phrase is mainly used to imply a general or broad overview or approach that captures the main essence or key aspects of a subject or situation, without delving into specific specifics or finer points.

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

in broad strokes

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The idiom "with a fine-tooth comb" originated from the practice of using a comb with closely spaced teeth to search for and remove any tangles or imperfections in one's hair. Metaphorically, the phrase is used to signify a complete and detailed examination or scrutiny of something, leaving no room for oversight or missing even the smallest details.

What is the origin of the idiom "with a fine-tooth comb" and when to use it?

with a fine-tooth comb

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The idiom "deep down" originated from the concept of depth as a metaphorical representation of one's true or innermost self. It signifies the underlying or fundamental nature of a person, belief, or emotion that exists beyond surface appearances or initial impressions. The phrase is used to emphasize the idea that there are hidden or profound aspects within individuals that may not be immediately apparent but play a significant role in shaping their thoughts, feelings, or motivations.

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

deep down

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The idiom "the big picture" originated from the world of visual art, specifically from the idea of stepping back to view a painting or image in its entirety. This phrase is used to emphasize the importance of considering the wider implications, long-term consequences, or overarching goals when making decisions or assessing a situation.

What is the origin of the idiom "the big picture" and when to use it?

the (big|bigger) picture

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The idiom "the half of it" originated from the notion that a given situation or story has more to it than what has been revealed or explained. It is mainly used to suggest that the information or details provided are only a fraction of the whole, and there is much more that remains untold or unshared.

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

the half of it

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Master English idioms regarding depth and surface, like "more than meets the eye" and "on the face of it".

English Idioms for "Depth & Surface"