The phrase "cut it out" is a relatively modern and idiomatic expression, and its specific historical origin is not precisely documented. It has evolved naturally in the English language as a direct way to tell someone to stop a particular behavior.  While the phrase's exact origin is unclear, it has become a widely recognized and used expression in casual language and is commonly used to address and discourage various behaviors, such as annoyance, teasing, or disruptions.

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

cut it out

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The origin of the idiom "more power to one's elbow" is not precisely documented, but it is a common idiom in British English. The phrase likely evolved from the idea of needing more physical strength or energy to accomplish a task, particularly one that requires physical effort. The expression has a figurative meaning, which is to wish someone success or encourage them in their efforts, even if those efforts are not necessarily physically demanding. It is a way of expressing support and goodwill toward someone's endeavors, and it conveys the idea of providing them with the necessary energy, motivation, or strength to achieve their goals.

What is the origin of the idiom "more power to one's elbow" and when to use it?

more power to {one's} elbow

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The origin of the idiom "enough said" is not precisely documented, but it is a relatively modern idiom that has evolved in English to express the idea that a statement or argument is complete and no further discussion is necessary. It is likely that the phrase developed organically as a concise way to indicate that a point has been adequately made or that a matter has been settled. It is typically used to convey that a point has been sufficiently made or that further discussion is unnecessary.

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

enough said

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The idiom "for Christ's sake" has its origins in Christianity, where it is considered an interjection or exclamation. It is used to emphasize the importance or urgency of a matter and invokes the name of Christ to do so. The use of "sake" in this context refers to the cause, purpose, or benefit of something. The exact historical origin of this expression is not precisely documented, but it has been used in the English language for many centuries, and similar phrases invoking religious figures for emphasis have been used in various cultures.

What is the origin of the idiom "for Christ's sake" and when to use it?

for (Christ's|God's|goodness') sake

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The origin of the idiom "perish the thought" can be traced to the general use of the word "perish" in the sense of something coming to an end or ceasing to exist. The phrase likely evolved as an idiom to convey the idea that a particular thought or suggestion should cease to exist or be dismissed. It is often used in a reassuring or dismissive manner to counteract negative or undesirable ideas. While the exact historical origin of this specific idiom is not precisely documented, similar phrases and expressions invoking the idea of negating or dismissing thoughts or possibilities have been used in the English language for many years.

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

perish the thought

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The idiom "slow off the mark" likely originates from the world of racing, particularly in track and field or horse racing. In these contexts, being "off the mark" refers to the starting line or point where a race begins. When a participant is slow off the mark, it means they did not start the race quickly or efficiently, putting them at a disadvantage right from the beginning. It is used to describe someone or something that is not quick to react, respond, or take action in a particular situation.

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

slow off the mark

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The idiom "not turn a hair" likely originates from the idea of hair being a visible and easily observable part of a person's appearance. When someone remains calm and composed in a surprising or disturbing situation, they do not display any visible signs of emotion on their face or in their behavior, as if their hair has not moved or changed. While the exact historical origin of this idiom is not precisely documented, it emphasizes the idea that a person remains completely unaffected, even though one might expect them to show signs of surprise, concern, or other emotions.

What is the origin of the idiom "not turn a hair" and when to use it?

to {not} [turn] a hair

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The idiom "not bat an eye" likely derives from the idea of someone not even making the slightest movement of their eyelids or eyebrows in response to a surprising or shocking situation. It emphasizes the absence of a visible reaction in a person's facial expression, as if they remain entirely unaffected by something. While the exact historical origin of this idiom is not precisely documented, it is now used to describe someone who remains completely composed in a surprising or emotionally charged situation, even when others might expect them to show a reaction.

What is the origin of the idiom "not bat an eye" and when to use it?

to {not} [bat] an eye

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The idiom "turn the other cheek" has its origin in the Bible, specifically in the teachings of Jesus found in the New Testament where he instructs his followers on how to respond to adversity and mistreatment. The origin of the phrase itself can be traced back to this biblical passage, which emphasizes the principles of forgiveness and nonviolence. As a result this expression has become a widely recognized idiom used to be used to emphasize the importance of forgiveness and nonviolent conflict resolution.

What is the origin of the idiom "turn the other cheek" and when to use it?

to [turn] the other cheek

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The phrase "take something in good part" is an idiomatic expression that has been in use for many years in the English language. While the exact historical origin of this phrase is not precisely documented, it is derived from the concept of receiving or accepting something in a positive or gracious manner, even when it could be perceived as challenging or critical. It is used to encourage individuals to respond with an open-minded attitude, particularly when faced with adversity, criticism, or unexpected events.

What is the origin of the idiom "take something in good part" and when to use it?

to [take] {sth} in good part

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The exact origin of the idiom "give someone the runaround" is not precisely documented, but it is likely a figurative expression that evolved over time in the English language. The phrase "runaround" is often used in a literal sense to describe a situation where someone is made to move in various directions, often unnecessarily or evasively. This expression is used to emphasize the idea that the person is being directed in various directions without making real progress or getting the information they seek.

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

to [give] {sb} the runaround

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The idiom "with open arms" has been in use for many years in the English language to convey the idea of a warm and enthusiastic welcome or acceptance. The phrase is rooted in the imagery of open arms being a symbol of welcome, acceptance, and embrace. While there is no precise historical origin documented for this expression, it is used to emphasize the idea of a positive and hospitable reception.

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

with open arms

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The idiom "go off on a tangent" likely originates from the geometric concept of a tangent line, which touches a curve at a single point without intersecting it further. It is used to emphasize the idea that the person has deviated from the main topic and is now exploring a related or unrelated idea or subject.

What is the origin of the idiom "go off on a tangent" and when to use it?

to [go] off on a tangent

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Discover how English idioms like "with open arms" and "go off on a tangent" relate to reactions and responses in English.

English Idioms for "Reaction & Response"