The origin of the idiom "horse sense" can be traced back to the early 19th century in the United States. It refers to the practical wisdom and common-sense knowledge that one might attribute to a horse – a seemingly simple and straightforward animal. This expression is used to describe someone who has a practical and sensible approach to solving problems or making decisions. It implies that the person possesses a down-to-earth, straightforward, and intuitive understanding of what is right or sensible.

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

horse sense

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The origin of the idiom "hold water" can be traced back to the early 17th century in English. The expression originally referred to the ability of a container to hold water without leaking. If a container could "hold water," it was considered reliable and functional. This expression is now used to evaluate the validity, logic, or soundness of an argument, explanation, or statement.

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

to [hold] water

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The idiom "gray matter" originated from the color of the human brain, which is often described as grayish in appearance. It has been in use since the 19th century, and the term "gray matter" has long been associated with intelligence, intellect, and the cognitive abilities of the brain. It is often used in a positive or neutral context to describe someone's intelligence or ability to think critically.

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

gray matter

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The idiom "mother wit" likely originated as a term to describe a person's natural or innate intelligence, common sense, and practical wisdom, often associated with the wisdom passed down from mothers to their children. It reflects the idea that some individuals possess a kind of wisdom that comes from life experience and a keen understanding of human nature. This phrase is used to describe someone's ability to make sound judgments, offer practical advice, or navigate everyday situations wisely and effectively. It is often employed in a positive context to acknowledge someone's innate intelligence or practical wisdom.

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

mother wit

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The idiom "against one's better judgment" reflects the idea that a person is making a decision or taking an action that they believe is unwise or not in their best interest. The term "better judgment" refers to one's ability to assess a situation and make a wise or rational choice based on their knowledge and experience. This expression is used to describe a situation where someone is doing something they believe to be unwise or imprudent, often due to external pressure, circumstances, or conflicting emotions.

What is the origin of the idiom "against one's better judgment" and when to use it?

against {one's} better judgment

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The origin of the idiom "talk sense" is rooted in the concept of rational and logical communication. It implies the idea that someone is not speaking sensibly or logically and encourages them to do so. The term "sense" here refers to a rational and logical approach to discussing or explaining something. This expression is used to request or advise someone to communicate in a more logical, coherent, or reasonable manner. It typically arises in situations where someone is perceived to be speaking irrationally, making baseless claims, or presenting ideas that lack logical foundation.

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

to [talk] sense

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The idiom "thinking cap" likely originated from the idea of wearing a special cap or hat that symbolizes one's readiness to engage in deep thinking or problem-solving. The term "cap" here is metaphorical and signifies a mental state of concentration and intellectual effort. This figurative expression has been in use since at least the early 20th century and is related to the notion of putting on a cap as a symbolic act of focusing one's mental faculties. It is used to encourage someone to engage their intellectual abilities, concentrate, and come up with creative solutions or ideas. It is often employed in a lighthearted or playful context to suggest that someone should put on their metaphorical "thinking cap" to address a challenge or task requiring mental effort.

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

thinking cap

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The idiom "take leave of one's senses" likely originated from the idea that when someone loses their senses, they become irrational or behave in an unreasonable and irrational manner. The term "leave" in this context means to part with or lose. It has been in use since at least the 18th century and is rooted in the concept of mental clarity and rational thinking associated with the five senses. This expression is used to describe a situation in which someone acts in a way that is irrational, illogical, or nonsensical. In other words, it suggests that the person has temporarily abandoned their ability to think clearly or make sound judgments.

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

to [take] leave of {one's} senses

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The idiom "an old head on young shoulders" likely originated from the observation that some individuals possess a level of maturity, wisdom, or experience beyond their years. The expression "an old head" refers to someone who displays the wisdom and judgment typically associated with older individuals, while "young shoulders" signify their age or youthfulness. This idiom emphasizes the contrast between a person's youthful appearance or age and their mature and wise outlook on life. This expression is used to compliment or describe a young person who exhibits remarkable maturity, wisdom, or sensible behavior, often beyond their age.

What is the origin of the idiom "an old head on young shoulders" and when to use it?

(an old|a wise) head on young shoulders

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The idiom "wise beyond one's years"  likely emerged from the observation that some individuals, despite their young age, possess a remarkable level of wisdom, maturity, or understanding. Over time, this observation led to the development of the idiom as a way to describe and commend those who exhibit a level of wisdom that is far higher what is expected or typical for their age group.

What is the origin of the idiom "wise beyond one's years" and when to use it?

wise (beyond|for) {one's} years

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Explore English idioms regarding logic and wisdom with examples like "hold water" and "talk sense".

English Idioms for "Logic & Wisdom"