The idiom "dog and pony show" originated from circuses and traveling shows that had trained dogs and ponies performing impressive acts to entertain the audience. Eventually, the term started being used figuratively to describe situations where people put on a flashy display just for show, without providing meaningful content or value.

What is the origin of the idiom "dog and pony show" and when to use it?

dog and pony show

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The idiom "loan shark" has its origins in the criminal underworld and is believed to date back to the early 20th century. It is thought to have originated in the United States where individuals would lend money to borrowers at extremely high interest rates. The phrase is often used to describe illegal lending practices that involve using threats, violence, or intimidation to make borrowers pay back the money they owe.

What is the origin of the idiom "loan shark" and when to use it?

loan shark

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The idiom "five-finger discount" likely stems from the idea that individuals use their five fingers to quickly take something without paying for it. This phrase has been in use since at least the mid-20th century. It is now used to describe stealing merchandise from stores in a somewhat playful or casual manner, but it should not be taken lightly as it promotes dishonest behavior.

What is the origin of the idiom "five-finger discount" and when to use it?

five-finger discount

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The idiom "funny business" has been in use since the early 20th century and conveys the idea of actions or dealings that may not be entirely trustworthy. It is often used in a lighthearted or casual manner, but can also convey a more serious tone when referring to potentially unethical conduct.

What is the origin of the idiom "funny business" and when to use it?

funny business

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The idiom "creative accounting" emerged as a way to describe accounting practices that deviate from standard principles and guidelines. This expression became well-known in the late 20th century to describe a situation in which when people manipulate financial information for their own or the company's advantage.

What is the origin of the idiom "creative accounting" and when to use it?

creative accounting

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The idiom "money laundering" originated in the United States during the 1920s when criminals wanted to hide the money they earned from selling illegal alcohol. They called it "money laundering" because they tried to make the money look clean, just like washing dirty clothes. Since then, the term has been used to describe hiding the source of illegal money by making it seem like it came from legal activities.

What is the origin of the idiom "money laundering" and when to use it?

money laundering

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The origin of the idiom "sharp practice" can be traced to the business world of the 18th century Industrial Revolution period. During this era of expanding markets, some merchants engaged in cunning tactics like deception to secure an advantage over competitors. These individuals were referred to as "sharp" due to their crafty business methods and the term "sharp practice" was used to describe their methods. This phrase is often used to describe behavior that is self-serving and lacks in good faith or ethics.

What is the origin of the idiom "sharp practice" and when to use it?

sharp [practice]

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The idiom "hush money" originates from attempts to silence someone or prevent them from speaking out. It typically refers to money or other compensation paid to someone to keep them quiet, especially about illegal, embarrassing or incriminating information. It is used when describing situations where someone in a position of power or influence provides money or gifts to another to stop people from sharing information or accusations about them with the public.

What is the origin of the idiom "hush money" and when to use it?

hush money

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The idiom "slush fund" originated in the mid-19th century and has its roots in the practice of melting snow or ice to create a watery mixture known as "slush." This slush was often used to lubricate or clean machinery. It is often used in political or organizational contexts when referring to hidden or unauthorized funds used for questionable purposes.

What is the origin of the idiom "slush fund" and when to use it?

slush fund

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The idiom "take someone to the cleaners" likely originated in the early 20th century in American English. It comes from the idea of someone being completely stripped of their money or possessions, as if their things were taken to a place for a thorough cleaning. The phrase is used to describe situations where someone is financially taken advantage of or left with very little money or resources. It is often used in discussions about unfair or one-sided deals, swindling, or instances where someone feels they have been cheated or deceived.

What is the origin of the idiom "take someone to the cleaners" and when to use it?

to [take] {sb} to the cleaners

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The origin of the idiom "easy money" can be traced back to the early 20th century in the United States. This phrase gained popularity in the early 1900s and has since become a common expression in various English-speaking countries. It is often used in discussions about potential opportunities, schemes, or ventures that promise quick and effortless financial gains.

What is the origin of the idiom "easy money" and when to use it?

easy money

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The origin of the idiom "on the fiddle" is believed to have originated in the mid-19th century in British English. It likely draws from the association of the violin (also called a fiddle) with trickery or manipulation, as well as the notion of playing a fraudulent tune. It is commonly used to discuss individuals who exploit loopholes, engage in tax evasion, commit fraud, or manipulate systems for personal gain.

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

on the fiddle

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The origin of the idiom "quick buck" can be traced back to the early 20th century in the United States. It became popular during the rapid industrialization and economic growth of the early 1900s, when people were seeking opportunities to take advantage of the growing
markets and make a profit in a short amount of time. The phrase can be heard in various contexts, such as discussions about get-rich-quick schemes, temporary jobs, or activities that promise quick monetary rewards.

What is the origin of the idiom "quick buck" and when to use it?

(quick|fast) buck

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Explore English idioms regarding fraud and swindle with examples like "on the fiddle" and "slush fund".

English Idioms for "Fraud & Swindle"