to briefly live in one or several places, without ever unpacking one's luggage, often due to not having a permanent place to live or stay in
The idiom "live out of a suitcase" likely originated from the lifestyle of frequent travelers or those who are constantly on the move. It is used to describe a way of living where a person doesn't have a permanent home or residence, and instead, they keep their belongings in a suitcase, traveling from place to place.
a strong urge to travel or leave somewhere
The idiom "itchy feet" is thought to have originated from the sensation of restlessness or a strong desire to travel or explore new places. The phrase implies a feeling of discomfort or an impulse to move and go on an adventure. It's often used to describe a person who cannot stay in one place for long and is eager to embark on a journey, whether for leisure or exploration.
Grammatical Information:
in an active state of travel by car, bus, or other form of transportation
The idiom "on the road" has its origin in the literal sense of being in an active state of travel while using a mode of transportation like a car, bus, or other vehicles. Over time, it has changed into a figurative sense to denote someone who is frequently traveling for various purposes, whether for work, leisure, or exploration.
the instinctive desire to return to a more primitive, untamed way of life, often associated with the wilderness or natural world
The idiom "the call of the wild" originated from the idea that the untamed and natural world exerts a powerful and irresistible attraction on humans. This expression was popularized by American author Jack London, who used it as the title for his novel "The Call of the Wild" (1903), in which the protagonist, a domesticated dog named Buck, is drawn by his instincts and the allure of the wilderness. The novel explores the primal and instinctual forces that compel individuals, whether human or animal, to seek freedom and a connection to the natural world.
to leave a location, usually to embark on a journey or trip
The idiom "hit the road" has its origins in American slang, particularly in the mid-20th century. It refers to the act of departing or beginning a journey, especially a road trip or travel by vehicle. The expression conjures the image of physically starting a journey by hitting the road's surface, emphasizing the action of getting underway.
to examine the chances of something's success before trying it
The idiom "test the waters" has nautical origins and refers to the practice of checking the depth of water in an unfamiliar area before proceeding with a boat or ship. This was crucial for navigational safety, ensuring that the water was deep enough to avoid grounding or other hazards. In a figurative sense, the idiom is used to describe the act of cautiously trying out or assessing a situation before fully committing to it, particularly in matters of decision-making or exploration.
Congratulations! !
You learned 6 words from Experiment & Exploration. To improve learning and review vocabulary, start practicing.
Review
Flashcards
Quiz
