The idiom "miss a trick" is believed to have originated in the game of cards, where players must pay close attention to the cards that have been played in order to make strategic decisions. In modern usage, the term "miss a trick" can refer to any situation where a person fails to take advantage of an opportunity or make the most of a situation.

What is the origin of the idiom "miss a trick" and when to use it?

to [miss] a trick

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The idiom "second bite at the cherry" is believed to have originated in the early 20th century in Britain. The phrase likely refers to the practice of picking and eating cherries from a tree, where the best and ripest cherries are often located on the higher branches and are difficult to reach. In this context, someone who has already picked a cherry and wants another chance to get a better one might take a "second bite at the cherry" by climbing the tree again to pick another cherry. It is used to describe a situation where someone is given a second opportunity to achieve something that they missed or failed the first time.

What is the origin of the idiom "second bite at the cherry" and when to use it?

second bite (at|to) the cherry

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The origin of the idiom "leave the door open for something" is uncertain, but it likely originated from the literal meaning of the phrase. Leaving a door open allows for the possibility of something or someone to enter or exit, and the idiom uses this literal meaning to suggest the idea of keeping a possibility open for something in a figurative sense. It is used to describe intentionally keeping a possibility or opportunity available for something in the future.

What is the origin of the idiom "leave the door open for something" and when to use it?

to [leave] the door open for {sth}

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The idiom "grease the skids" has its origin in the world of machinery and manufacturing. In the early 20th century, when machines were powered by steam, workers would pour oil or grease on the metal skids or tracks to reduce friction and help the heavy equipment move more easily. Over time, the phrase came to be used figuratively to describe an action taken to help a process move more smoothly and easily.

What is the origin of the idiom "grease the skids" and when to use it?

to [grease] the skids

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The idiom "prepare the ground for something" has its origin in agriculture. It refers to the process of preparing the soil before planting crops. Over time, the phrase came to be used figuratively to describe the process of getting ready for a future event or action by making the necessary preparations or creating favorable conditions.

What is the origin of the idiom "prepare the ground for something" and when to use it?

to [prepare] the [ground] for {sth}

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The idiom "the streets of somewhere are paved with gold" has its origin in the 19th century, when many immigrants were coming to the United States in search of a better life. They believed that it would provide them with instant wealth and prosperity. However, the reality was often very different, and many immigrants struggled to make a living in the new country. Over time, the phrase came to be used to describe a place or situation that is believed to offer great wealth or opportunity, but the reality may be very different.

What is the origin of the idiom "the streets of somewhere are paved with gold" and when to use it?

the streets of {sw} [are] paved with gold

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The idiom "gravy train" has its origin in the early 20th century, when it was used to describe a train that transported wealthy passengers in luxury and comfort. The term "gravy" was used to describe the delicious sauce that is often served with meat, and it was applied metaphorically to describe the luxurious lifestyle enjoyed by the wealthy passengers on the train. Over time, the phrase came to be used figuratively to describe any situation where someone is able to make a lot of money with little effort.

What is the origin of the idiom "gravy train" and when to use it?

gravy train

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Explore English idioms regarding opportunities with examples like "gravy train" and "grease the skids".

English Idioms for "Opportunities"