The idiom "at cross purposes" originated from the literal idea of two or more people or groups having conflicting or opposing aims or intentions. The phrase emphasizes a lack of alignment or coordination between individuals or parties, resulting in misunderstandings or ineffective communication. It suggests that the involved parties are unintentionally working against each other, pursuing different goals or objectives that hinder cooperation or progress.

What is the origin of the idiom "at cross purposes" and when to use it?

at cross purposes

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The origin of the idiom "on par with" comes from the game of golf. In golf, "par" refers to the standard number of strokes that a skilled player is expected to make for a particular hole or course. Therefore, being "on par with" means being equal to or equivalent to this standard. Over time, the expression has been extended beyond golf to describe equality or similarity in various contexts.

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

on (a|) par with {sb/sth}

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The idiom "out of place" originated in the late 16th century and is derived from the concept of something being in an inappropriate or unsuitable location or context. The phrase is used to suggest a lack of harmony, incongruity, or a deviation from the expected or customary arrangement. It is used to describe something or someone that does not fit naturally or comfortably within a particular setting or situation.

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

out of place

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The idiom "out of context" originates from the literal concept of removing a statement, phrase, or situation from its original surrounding circumstances or environment. The phrase is used to indicate that something is being misunderstood, misinterpreted, or misrepresented because it is separated from its proper context.

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

out of context

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The idiom "at odds" originated from the concept of two things being in disagreement or conflict with each other, rather than being in harmony or correspondence. The phrase is used to emphasize a lack of agreement or compatibility between two entities, often used to describe contrasting opinions, conflicting interests, or opposing viewpoints.

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

at odds

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The idiom "out of step with someone or something" originated from the literal notion of marching or walking in a synchronized manner. The phrase is used to signify a lack of alignment or compatibility with a person, group, or situation, suggesting that one's actions, beliefs, or behaviors are not in harmony or agreement with the prevailing norms, expectations, or values.

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

out of step with {sb/sth}

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to [fly] in the teeth of {sth}

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The idiom "lend itself to" originates from the Middle English period, where "lend" meant to grant or provide. Over time, the expression evolved to mean that something is well-suited or capable of being used or adapted for a specific purpose, activity, or situation. It often implies that the thing has qualities or attributes that make it particularly effective or suitable in that context.

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

to [lend] itself to {sth}

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The origin of the idiom "out of whack" is not definitively known, but it likely emerged from the idea of a mechanical device being misaligned or malfunctioning. The phrase is used to describe a state of disorder, imbalance, or dysfunction, wherein something is not functioning or operating as it should.

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

out of whack

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The idiom "strange bedfellows" has its origin in the literal idea of individuals sharing a bed who would not typically be expected to do so. This expression is used to signify an unexpected or unconventional pairing or association between two people or things that, despite their differences or contrasting qualities, form an unlikely but effective combination.

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

strange bedfellows

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Discover how English idioms like "at cross purposes" and "fly in the teeth of" relate to compatibility and incompatibility in English.

English Idioms for "Compatibility & Incompatibility"