The idiom "walk the walk" likely originated as an extension of the expression "talk the talk." It is used to emphasize the importance of translating one's words into actions, pointing out the need for authenticity and follow-through. The phrase implies that actions speak louder than words and challenges individuals to demonstrate their commitment, values, or beliefs through tangible deeds rather than mere verbal assurances.

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

to [walk] the walk

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The idiom "give one's word" originated from the concept of making a verbal promise or commitment. The phrase is primarily used to emphasize the significance and integrity of one's word, underscoring the importance of trust and reliability in interpersonal relationships and agreements.

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

to [give] {one's} word

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The idiom "take one's word for it" originated from the idea of accepting someone's statement or assurance as true without requiring further evidence or proof. It is used to imply a level of trust and confidence in the credibility and honesty of the person making the statement, acknowledging that their word alone is sufficient evidence or confirmation.

What is the origin of the idiom "take one's word for it" and when to use it?

to [take] {one's} word for it

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The idiom "benefit of the doubt" originated from the legal context, where it refers to the principle of presuming innocence or ascribing a positive interpretation to someone's actions or statements when there is uncertainty or lack of evidence. It signifies granting a favorable judgment or opinion to someone despite doubts or suspicions, giving them the benefit of a more favorable assumption or consideration. The phrase is mainly used to emphasize the fairness and open-mindedness in withholding judgment or criticism until further information or evidence is available.

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

benefit of the doubt

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The idiom "from one's heart" originated from the belief that emotions and genuine feelings originate from the heart, symbolizing the innermost core of a person's being. It signifies expressing or acting upon sentiments, intentions, or words that are sincere, heartfelt, and authentic. The expression is often used to emphasize the idea that what is communicated or done originates from a place of deep emotion, honesty, and sincerity.

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

from (the bottom of|) {one's} heart

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The idiom "shoot from the hip" originated from the world of gun slinging and Western culture, where it referred to firing a weapon directly from the hip, without taking the time to aim or carefully consider one's target. Metaphorically, it is used to signify acting or speaking impulsively, without careful thought or planning.

What is the origin of the idiom "shoot from the hip" and when to use it?

to [shoot] from the hip

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The idiom "make no bones about something" originated from the medieval practice of divination, where bones were used to predict the future. It is used to refer to being straightforward, direct, and unambiguous in expressing one's opinions, intentions, or feelings about something.

What is the origin of the idiom "make no bones about something" and when to use it?

to [make] no bones about {sth}

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The origin of the idiom "lay it on the line" is not precisely documented, but it is believed to come from the world of sports or games where lines or boundaries define the rules. The phrase is used figuratively to mean providing information, expressing one's thoughts or feelings, or stating something honestly and directly.

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

to [lay] it on the line

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The idiom "give it to someone straight" originated from the world of boxing, where a boxer delivers a direct, powerful punch without any deception or evasion. The phrase is now used to emphasize the importance of honesty and directness in communication, ensuring that the recipient receives information without any ambiguity or hidden meaning.

What is the origin of the idiom "give it to someone straight" and when to use it?

to [give] it to {sb} straight

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The idiom "talk turkey" originated from a practice among Native American tribes and early American settlers where negotiations for trade or agreements involving wild turkeys were conducted. The expression is mostly used to emphasize the importance of getting to the point, discussing practical details, and reaching a clear understanding or resolution.

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

to [talk] turkey

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The idiom "pull no punches" originates from boxing, where pulling punches refers to not reducing the force of a punch, and when one "pulls no punches," one delivers one's feedback or statements with full force, even if they are critical or harsh. This phrase is often used to describe a forthright and no-nonsense approach to communication.

What is the origin of the idiom "pull no punches" and when to use it?

to [pull] no punches

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The idiom "man to man" originated from the concept of direct communication and interaction between two individuals, particularly men. It is used to signify a conversation or exchange that occurs openly, honestly, and without any intermediaries. The phrase emphasizes the notion of equal footing, where both parties engage in a sincere and genuine dialogue, often to address a sensitive or important matter.

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

man to man

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The idiom "in so many words" originated from the idea of explicitly expressing something using the exact or approximate number of words required. This idiomatic phrase is used to emphasize the clarity and precision of language, highlighting the intention to avoid ambiguity or misunderstanding by explicitly stating the intended meaning.

What is the origin of the idiom "in so many words" and when to use it?

in (so|as) many words

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The idiom "gentleman's agreement" originated from the societal norms and customs prevalent among gentlemen in the 19th and early 20th centuries. It refers to an informal and unwritten understanding or arrangement between two parties, typically men, based on trust, honor, and integrity. The phrase is now used to emphasize the reliance on mutual respect and good faith, where a handshake or verbal agreement is considered binding, without the need for legal documentation or formal contracts.

What is the origin of the idiom "gentleman's agreement" and when to use it?

gentleman's agreement

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The idiom "wear one's heart on one's sleeve" originated from medieval jousting tournaments, where knights would wear their lady's favor on their sleeves to publicly display their affection and devotion. The phrase is mostly used to emphasize transparency, vulnerability, and a lack of emotional restraint or inhibition in expressing oneself.

What is the origin of the idiom "wear one's heart on one's sleeve" and when to use it?

to [wear|have] {one's} heart on {one's} sleeve

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The origin of the idiom "open one's heart to someone or something" is rooted in the metaphorical understanding of the heart as the seat of emotions and deep feelings. The phrase is used to signify the act of sharing one's innermost thoughts, emotions, or vulnerabilities with another person or being receptive to a particular experience or idea.

What is the origin of the idiom "open one's heart to someone or something" and when to use it?

to [open] {one's} [heart] to {sb/sth}

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The idiom "open the kimono" originated from the business world and is believed to have emerged in the 1980s. It refers to the act of revealing or disclosing sensitive or confidential information, strategies, or plans. The phrase is thought to have been inspired by the cultural significance of the kimono in Japanese society, which traditionally represents openness and honesty. It is used only to emphasize the act of sharing information transparently and without reservation, often in a collaborative or negotiation context.

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

to [open] the kimono

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The idiom "bare one's heart" originated from the metaphorical understanding of the heart or soul as the innermost essence of a person. It refers to the act of revealing one's deepest emotions, thoughts, or secrets in a vulnerable and sincere manner. The phrase highlights the act of opening oneself up completely, often in a trusting and intimate context, and sharing one's truest self with another person or a broader audience.

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

to [bare] {one's} [heart|soul]

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The idiom "pour one's heart out" originated from the imagery of pouring liquid out of a container, symbolizing the act of expressing one's deepest emotions, thoughts, or concerns with great intensity and openness. It is used to refer to the act of speaking or sharing in an unrestrained and uninhibited manner, often in a cathartic or emotional way.

What is the origin of the idiom "pour one's heart out" and when to use it?

to [pour] {one's} [heart] out

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The phrase "spill one's guts" is an idiomatic expression that originated metaphorically to describe the act of revealing or sharing one's deepest emotions, private thoughts, and secrets with someone. It conveys the image of opening up and pouring out all of one's innermost thoughts and feelings. It is commonly used to describe the act of sharing or confessing a significant amount of personal information or secrets to someone. It implies a sense of honesty, vulnerability, and a willingness to disclose intimate details.

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

to [spill] {one's} guts (out|)

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Explore English idioms regarding truth and honesty, including "pull no punches" and "lay it on the line".

English Idioms for "Trust & Honesty"