The idiom "better than nothing" originated from the idea that having something, even if it is not ideal or perfect, is preferable to having nothing at all. It is used to conveys the idea of accepting an option or outcome because it is still better than having no alternative or advantage whatsoever. The idiom highlights the relative value of a less desirable option when compared to a complete absence of options or benefits.

What is the origin of the idiom "better than nothing" and when to use it?

better than nothing

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The idiom "like gold dust" originated from the preciousness and rarity of gold dust, which is extremely scarce and difficult to find. It is used to describe something that is in high demand or highly sought after, but is scarce or limited in availability.

What is the origin of the idiom "like gold dust" and when to use it?

like gold dust

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The idiom "alive and well/kicking" does not have a specific origin. It is a common expression that evolved naturally in the English language over time. It is based on the literal meaning of being alive and in good health, which metaphorically extends to something being successful, prosperous, or popular. It is used to describe something that is still thriving, successful, or popular and it implies that the thing in question has not declined or lost its appeal.

What is the origin of the idiom "alive and well/kicking" and when to use it?

alive and (well|kicking)

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The idiom "in hand" originated from the literal meaning of having something physically held or grasped in one's hand. Over time, it has evolved to convey the idea of having something readily available or prepared for use when needed. It implies that the item or task is nearly complete or fully organized, and can be readily employed or utilized without delay.

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

in hand

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The idiom "treasure trove" originated from the literal meaning of a treasure trove, which refers to a hidden or valuable collection of objects or wealth that has been discovered or unearthed. It is used to signify a valuable or significant discovery, often unexpected, that is considered a source of great fortune or delight.

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

treasure trove

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The idiom "dead as a dodo" originated from the literal extinction of the dodo bird, a flightless bird native to Mauritius. The dodo bird became extinct in the 17th century due to hunting and the introduction of invasive species. The phrase is used metaphorically to describe something that is no longer popular, relevant, or interesting, emphasizing its decline in popularity or significance.

What is the origin of the idiom "dead as a dodo" and when to use it?

(as|) dead as a dodo

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The exact origin of the idiom "dead as mutton" is uncertain, but it likely stems from the perception that mutton (the meat of mature sheep) becomes tough and less desirable after being slaughtered. Therefore, likening something to being "dead as mutton" suggests that it is completely defunct or no longer useful, much like the meat of a sheep that has been slaughtered.

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

(as|) dead as mutton

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The idiom "out of date" originates from the concept of something being past its expiration or validity period. It refers to things that are no longer current, relevant, or in line with the latest standards or practices. The expression is used to convey the idea that the item or information is outdated and should be replaced or updated to align with the current state of affairs.

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

out of date

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The idiom "ad hoc" originates from Latin, where "ad" means "to" or "for" and "hoc" means "this." It is used to describe something that is created, organized, or done specifically for a particular purpose or situation, rather than being part of a pre-established plan or system. The idiom conveys the idea of something being temporary, improvised, or designed to address an immediate need or circumstance.

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

ad hoc

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The idiom "worth the candle" originated from the practice of evaluating the value or benefit of an action or endeavor against the effort or cost required to achieve it. It is mainly used to refer to the idea of determining whether the potential outcome justifies the resources or sacrifices involved. The idiom's origin can be traced back to the time when candles were a valuable and limited resource, and their use was carefully considered in relation to the value of the activity being pursued.

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

worth the candle

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The idiom "dead and buried" originates from the literal concept of death and burial and the undeniable fact that once someone is dead and buried, their memory is gradually forgotten. It is used metaphorically to indicate that something or someone is completely finished, over, or irretrievable. In other words, it emphasizes the finality and permanence of a situation or the complete absence of something or someone.

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

dead and (buried|gone)

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The idiom "up to the mark" does not have a specific origin, but it likely derives from the practice of marking or setting a standard for quality or performance. The idiom suggests meeting or surpassing the expected standard or level. It is used to describe someone or something that is considered good enough to meet a certain requirement or expectation.

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

up to the mark

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The idiom "rough and ready" originated from the military context, specifically referring to troops or soldiers who were prepared for battle despite their lack of formal training or refined appearance. It conveys the idea of being adequately equipped and capable of handling a situation, even if it means relying on practicality and resourcefulness rather than sophistication or polish. Over time, the idiom has evolved to describe anything or anyone that is unrefined yet effective or functional in achieving a desired outcome.

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

rough and ready

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The origin of the idiom "mumbo jumbo" is believed to be the result of the combining of two unrelated terms: "mumbo" and "jumbo." It has its roots in West African religious practices, particularly those of the Mandinka tribe. "Mumbo jumbo" refers to the ceremonial language or chants used by tribal priests in their rituals, which were often unintelligible to outsiders. Over time, the term evolved to describe any language or speech that appears complex, obscure, or nonsensical. Today, "mumbo jumbo" is used figuratively to refer to incomprehensible or confusing language, ideas, or actions.

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

mumbo jumbo

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The idiom "crowning glory" originated from the notion of a crown being the symbol of the highest position or honor. The term "glory" refers to something that is highly esteemed or admired. When combined, "crowning glory" came to represent the most important or greatest part of something.

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

crowning glory

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The idiom "useful as a chocolate teapot" is a humorous phrase that originated from the concept of a teapot made of chocolate, which would quickly melt when exposed to hot liquids. The idiom is used to describe something or someone that is utterly ineffective, futile, or impractical. It emphasizes the complete lack of usefulness or functionality, comparing it to an object that serves no purpose due to its inherent limitations.

What is the origin of the idiom "useful as a chocolate teapot" and when to use it?

(as|) useful as a chocolate teapot

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The idiom "behind the times" originated from the concept of being outdated or not keeping up with current trends, advancements, or societal changes. It is used to refer to something that is not in line with the latest developments or practices, often due to resistance to change.

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

behind the times

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The idiom "old chestnut" originates from an English play called "The Broken Sword" written by William Dimond in 1816. In the play, a character repeats a humorous anecdote involving a horse chestnut tree several times, to the point where it becomes tiresome for the other characters. Over time, the phrase came to represent a worn-out or overused joke, story, or idea that has lost its freshness and novelty.

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

old chestnut

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The origin of this phrase can be traced back to the industrial revolution when steam engines were becoming more prevalent. The term "speed" referred to the velocity of the engine's piston, and engineers would measure the engine's speed. If the engine was "up to speed," it meant that it was running efficiently and effectively. By analogy, if a person or organization is "up to speed," it means they are operating well and efficiently, with all parts working together smoothly and effectively.

The origin and history of "up to speed"

up to speed

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The idiom "black gold" originated from the early 20th century and is used to refer to petroleum or oil. The term gained popularity due to the significant economic value and widespread use of oil as a natural resource. The black color of crude oil, combined with its immense value, led to the analogy of it being akin to gold. The phrase "black gold" became a metaphorical representation of the immense wealth and economic power associated with the oil industry.

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

black gold

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Master English idioms regarding usefulness and value, like "dead as a dodo" and "worth the candle".

English Idioms for "Usefulness & Value"