The phrase "come up roses" has its origin in the world of gardening and horticulture. Roses are prized for their beauty and fragrance and have long been associated with positive emotions such as love, joy, and celebration. In this context, the phrase "come up roses" originally referred to the successful growth and blooming of a rose plant. Over time, the phrase "come up roses" came to be used metaphorically to describe a situation or outcome that is positive, successful, or favorable. The phrase suggests that everything is going well and that things are turning out as desired.

What is the origin of the idiom "come up roses" and when to use it?

to [come] up roses

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The phrase "lick one's wounds" originates from the animal kingdom, specifically from the behavior of wounded animals. After a fight or attack, an injured animal may retreat to a safe place to lick its wounds, which helps to clean and soothe the wounds and promote healing. Over time, the phrase "lick one's wounds" came to be used metaphorically to describe the process of recovering from a setback or defeat. It implies that after a difficult or painful experience, a person may need time to retreat, reflect, and heal before returning to face the world.

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

to [lick] {one's} wounds

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The phrase "quantum leap" has its origin in the field of physics, specifically in the theory of quantum mechanics. In quantum mechanics, a "quantum" is the smallest possible unit of energy, and a "quantum leap" refers to the sudden and dramatic movement of an electron from one energy level to another within an atom. Over time, the phrase "quantum leap" came to be used metaphorically to describe a sudden and significant change or advancement in any field or area of life.

What is the origin of the idiom "quantum leap" and when to use it?

quantum (leap|jump)

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The phrase "work out the kinks" has its origins in the world of mechanics. In this context, "kinks" refer to deformities or imperfections in a metal or wire that can cause it to become twisted or bent out of shape. To "work out the kinks" means to take steps to remove these deformities and restore the metal or wire to its proper shape. Over time, the phrase came to be used metaphorically to describe the process of identifying and fixing problems or imperfections in any situation or process. The phrase suggests that even the best plans or systems may have some initial issues or flaws that need to be addressed before they can work properly.

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

to [work|iron] out the kinks

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The phrase 'back on the rails' comes from the world of trains and railways. The 'rails' in the phrase refer to the parallel metal tracks upon which train wheels run. To keep a train moving in a straight line and prevent it from going off the tracks, it must stay 'on the rails.' If a train does go off the track, it must be put back "on the rails" before it can continue on its journey. Over time, the phrase 'back on the rails' came to be used metaphorically to describe the process of getting back on track after a setback or problem. It implies that, like a train, a person or project may temporarily have gone off the tracks but can be put back on course.

What is the origin of the idiom "back on the rails" and when to use it?

back on the rails

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The phrase "in the ascendant" is derived from the astrological term "ascendant," which refers to the sign of the zodiac that is rising on the eastern horizon at the time of a person's birth. The phrase can also be used in a more figurative sense to describe something that is growing or developing.

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

in the ascendant

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The phrase "in the fast lane" is believed to have originated in the 1950s, when the term "fast lane" was used to describe the left lane on a highway. The left lane is typically the fastest lane, as it is where cars can travel at higher speeds. The phrase "in the fast lane" has since been adopted by a variety of other contexts, including business, sports, and politics. In these contexts, the phrase is used to describe someone who is moving quickly or successfully in their field.

What is the origin of the idiom "in the fast lane" and when to use it?

in the fast lane

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The phrase 'back on track' is thought to have originated in the railroad industry, where it referred to the process of getting a train back on its normal path after a disruption or accident. The phrase has since been adopted in various contexts to describe the process of returning to a normal state after a period of interruption or difficulty.

What is the origin of the idiom "back on track" and when to use it?

back on track

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The idiom "on the mend" has originated from the medical field, where it referred to the process of physical healing and recovery from an injury or illness. Over time, it has been extended to include broader situations of improvement and recovery. It is used to describe someone or something that is in the process of recovering or improving from a failure or setback.

What is the origin of the idiom "on the mend" and when to use it?

on the mend

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The phrase "finishing stroke" has its roots in the sport of fencing, which dates back to the 16th century. In fencing, two opponents use swords to score points by touching their opponent with the tip of their sword. The final, decisive move that scores the winning point is known as the "coup de grâce" or "the finishing touch." Over time, the term has come to be used more broadly to describe any final, decisive action or step needed to complete or perfect a task or project.

What is the origin of the idiom "finishing touch" and when to use it?

finishing [touch|stroke]

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The phrase "icing on the cake" has its origins in the practice of adding a layer of icing or frosting to a cake to make it more appealing or enjoyable. The phrase first appeared in print in the 19th century, and it quickly became a popular idiom for describing something that enhances the enjoyment or value of something that is already good.

What is the origin of the idiom "icing on the cake" and when to use it?

(icing|frosting) on the cake

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The origin of the phrase "the cherry on the cake" is uncertain, but it may be related to the common practice of topping desserts with a cherry, such as a cake or a sundae. The phrase was first recorded in the mid-19th century, and it has been used to denote an additional benefit or enhancement to an already good situation ever since.

What is the origin of the idiom "the cherry on the cake" and when to use it?

the cherry on (top of|) the (cake|sundae)

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Explore English idioms regarding boost and enhancements with examples like "back on the rails" and "on the mend".

English Idioms for "Boost & Enhancement"