The origin of the idiom "spare one's blushes" can be traced back to the 16th century in English literature. The word "blush" refers to the reddening of the face due to embarrassment or shame. The idiom "spare one's blushes" emerged as a figurative expression to describe an act of mercy or kindness shown to someone by preventing them from experiencing such embarrassment. It can also be used in formal settings, such as a professional presentation or public speaking event, where a supportive audience or facilitator may provide assistance or understanding to prevent the speaker from feeling embarrassed.

What is the origin of the idiom "spare one's blushes" and when to use it?

to [spare|save] {one's} blushes

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The origin of the idiom "make a spectacle of oneself" can be traced back to the mid-19th century. The word "spectacle" refers to a visually striking or attention-grabbing event or performance. This expression emerged as a figurative expression to describe an individual's actions or behavior that attract public attention in a manner that is often seen as embarrassing or inappropriate. It is used in various contexts and occasions where someone wants to describe or criticize a person's attention-seeking or embarrassing behavior.

What is the origin of the idiom "make a spectacle of oneself" and when to use it?

to [make] a spectacle of {oneself}

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The origin of the idiom "the ground open up and swallow someone" can be traced back to biblical references. The phrase draws inspiration from passages in the Bible where the ground opened up and swallowed rebellious individuals as a divine punishment. This phrase is commonly used when discussing situations where someone has made a significant mistake, committed a social faux pas, or experienced a public failure, resulting in a profound sense of shame or embarrassment.

What is the origin of the idiom "the ground open up and swallow someone" and when to use it?

the (ground|floor|earth) [open] up and [swallow] {sb}

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The origin of the idiom "red as a beet" is not definitively known, but it likely comes from the observation of the physical reaction of a person's face turning red when experiencing embarrassment or shame. The comparison to a beet, a vegetable with a naturally reddish color, serves as a vivid and relatable metaphor to describe the flushed complexion that can occur in such situations. It can also be used to describe situations where someone is confronted with unexpected attention, criticism, or humiliation.

What is the origin of the idiom "red as a beet" and when to use it?

(as|) red as a beet

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The phrase "red as a cherry" likely originated from the observation of cherries' bright red color, and it is now used figuratively to describe a flushed or reddened complexion, particularly in moments of embarrassment or shame. The comparison to a cherry creates a visual image of a person's face turning red, emphasizing visible signs of emotional discomfort. This phrase is often used to describe embarrassing moments, social blunders, romantic encounters, or situations where someone feels exposed or caught off guard. It can also be used to convey the feeling of being the center of attention or experiencing a sudden rush of emotions.

What is the origin of the idiom "red as a cherry" and when to use it?

(as|) red as a cherry

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The idiom "swallow one's pride" likely stems from the association between swallowing and the act of suppressing or overcoming one's pride or ego. Swallowing is often associated with a physical action of taking something into the body, and in this case, it symbolizes the internal process of accepting a situation or humbling oneself. This phrase is often used in interpersonal relationships, conflicts, or professional settings where individuals recognize the importance of humility, compromise, or maintaining harmony.

What is the origin of the idiom "swallow one's pride" and when to use it?

to [swallow] {one's} pride

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The idiom "put one's foot in one's mouth" likely stems from the image of someone physically inserting their foot into their own mouth, which is a physically awkward and impossible action. The phrase gained popularity and became established in the English language during the 20th century, reflecting the concept of verbal blunders or social missteps. It is commonly employed in informal settings, such as casual conversations, social gatherings, or everyday interactions. This phrase is often used when someone speaks without thinking, makes a thoughtless comment, or inadvertently offends others.

What is the origin of the idiom "put one's foot in one's mouth" and when to use it?

to [put] {one's} foot in {one's} mouth

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The origin of the idiom "egg on one's face" can be traced back to the world of entertainment, specifically vaudeville and slapstick comedy routines. In these performances, it was common for actors or comedians to engage in humorous or exaggerated mishaps that would result in them having eggs thrown at them or smashed onto their faces. This act was intended to elicit laughter from the audience by portraying the character as clumsy, foolish, or deserving of ridicule. It is often employed in informal settings, such as social interactions, personal blunders, or professional mishaps. This expression is commonly used when someone's mistakes or errors become widely known or visible, causing them to appear foolish, incompetent, or deserving of ridicule.

What is the origin of the idiom "egg on one's face" and when to use it?

[egg] (on|all over) {one's} [face]

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to [eat] dirt

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The origin of the idiom "eat humble pie" can be traced back to medieval times in England. During that time, a dish called "umbles" was commonly eaten by lower-class people. "Umbles" referred to the edible organs of an animal, particularly the heart, liver, and other offal. These parts were considered less desirable and were often consumed by servants, peasants, or hunters who couldn't afford the more prized cuts of meat. This expression is commonly used in personal interactions, professional settings, or even in public discourse when someone's pride or hubris has been challenged, and they are compelled to face the consequences or make amends for their actions.

What is the origin of the idiom "eat humble pie" and when to use it?

to [eat] humble pie

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The idiom "red in the face" has been in use since at least the 19th century, and it is believed to have originated from observations of people's facial color changes when experiencing strong emotions or exertion. This phrase can be applied to personal interactions, such as when someone is caught in a lie, publicly criticized, or experiencing humiliation.

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

red in the face

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Explore English idioms regarding shame and embarrassment with examples like "eat humble pie" and "red in the face".

English Idioms for "Shame & Embarrassment"