Unit 7 - 7C

The idiom "long in the tooth" has its origin in the practice of estimating a horse's age by examining its teeth, as horses' teeth grow longer as they age. Today, it is used figuratively to describe people who are older or show signs of aging. It can refer to a person's physical age or be used metaphorically to describe someone who seems outdated or out of touch, often employed in informal contexts to humorously highlight someone's age or experience.

The origin of the idiom "set in one's ways" can be traced back to the early 19th century. The term "set" in this context refers to becoming fixed or firmly established in a particular pattern or behavior. The phrase likely evolved from the idea of setting or hardening materials, such as clay or cement, which become rigid and unyielding once they have solidified. It is often employed when discussing someone's behavior, attitudes, or preferences that have become fixed and unyielding over time.

The origin of the idiom "go on about someone or something" is unclear but it likely comes from the phrase "to go on" which has been used for centuries to mean "to continue" or "keep speaking". This idiom was popularized in the mid-1900s and captured in songs, books and movies to describe someone who won't stop talking. It is typically used in an informal or conversational context to describe an emotionally negative experience of listening to excessive details about a topic that the speaker finds boring or uninteresting.

The idiom "out of touch" likely originated from the physical sense of being in contact or not with a particular object or surface. In this case, "touch" is used metaphorically to represent being in contact with current events, trends, or knowledge. It is used to describe someone who lacks awareness, understanding, or knowledge of current trends, developments, or the prevailing attitudes of society. It suggests that the person is disconnected from what is happening around them, especially in terms of contemporary issues, popular culture, or technological advancements.

The exact origin of the phrase "stand on one's own feet" is uncertain. However, it is a metaphorical expression that likely emerged from the idea of physical stability and balance. This idiom is often used in conversations about financial independence, personal development, and professional success to describe individuals who are self-sufficient, independent, and capable of taking care of themselves without relying on others for support or assistance.