![to [catch] {sb} with {one's} pants down](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/47312/original/?type=jpeg)
to unexpectedly expose or confront someone in an embarrassing situation
The phrase "catch someone with their pants down" is an idiomatic expression that is used to describe catching someone in a vulnerable or compromising situation, often when they are unprepared or engaged in an embarrassing act. The origin of this phrase is unclear, but it likely stems from the literal act of someone being found with their pants down, such as when they are caught in the middle of changing clothes or engaged in an inappropriate activity.
to arrest or see someone the moment they are doing something that is illegal or dishonest
The idiom "catch someone red-handed" traces its origin to the practice of catching a person with literal blood stains on their hands, serving as irrefutable evidence of their involvement in a crime or wrongdoing. In earlier times, the phrase was associated with catching a thief or murderer immediately after the act, when their hands were stained with the victim's blood. Over time, the idiom evolved to describe any situation where someone is caught in the act of committing an offense or engaging in illicit activities, leaving them with undeniable proof of their guilt.
to get rid of waste material, particularly in an unorganized manner
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to be deceived or tricked by someone or something
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used to express anger and the fact that someone does not care about someone or something
The origin of the idiom "forget that noise" is not precisely documented, but it is used to dismiss, reject, or express disapproval of a suggestion, idea, or statement, often with a sense of annoyance or irritation.
having finished one's supply of something very recently
The idiom "fresh out of something" originated from the idea of a supply or stock of something being recently depleted or exhausted. The word "fresh" in this context implies that the depletion is recent or immediate, indicating that the item is no longer available. This idiomatic expression is used to describe a situation where there is a complete lack or depletion of a specific item or resource. It emphasizes that the item has just been used or consumed and is no longer available.
to be entertained, delighted, or excited by someone or something
The idiom "get a kick out of something" originated in the early 20th century, and it derives from the idea of experiencing amusement or enjoyment from a particular thing. It is used to convey the sense of finding something amusing, entertaining, or intriguing, often resulting in a sense of pleasure or delight.
to put a sudden stop to something one was doing for some time
The idiom "give something a rest" is a figurative expression that suggests putting a sudden stop to something that has been ongoing for some time. While the precise historical origin of the phrase is not documented, it likely emerged naturally in the context of everyday language. It has been in use for many years to request a break or cessation from an ongoing activity or topic.
used when someone is about to undergo a medical operation
The idiom "under the knife" originated from the field of surgery, where the knife represents the surgical instrument used for incisions. It has been used metaphorically since the early 20th century to refer to undergoing a surgical procedure. It is used to describe the act of undergoing a surgical operation or procedure. It implies that someone is undergoing a medical intervention that involves the use of a surgical instrument, such as a scalpel.
behaving in a crazy or irrational manner
various small things that have no importance or value
The idiom "odds and ends" has been in use since at least the 17th century and likely originates from the idea of miscellaneous or leftover items being a collection of various "odds" (unmatched or irregular items) and "ends" (small fragments or remnants). This phrase is used to refer to a collection of small, miscellaneous, or unrelated items or things. It is used to imply that these items are not part of a larger, organized whole and may be of varied importance or value.
used of a person whose mind is busy with the thought of a particular person or thing and cannot think of anyone or anything else
The idiom "one-track mind" originated from the concept of a train running on a single track, symbolizing a singular focus or preoccupation. It refers to a person who is excessively fixated or obsessed with a particular topic, idea, or desire, often to the exclusion of other thoughts or interests. The phrase is used to emphasize the narrowness of the individual's thinking and their inability to easily shift their attention or consider alternative perspectives.
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to purchase something
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to figure out why things are the way they are and be able to identify the reason
The origin of the idiom "put one's finger on something" is likely derived from the idea of pointing out or touching something precisely with one's finger, indicating a high level of accuracy and specificity in identifying or describing an issue. This idiom has evolved over time to represent the act of identifying or specifying something with clarity and precision.
![to [get|take|keep] {one's} mind off {sth}](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/46354/original/?type=jpeg)
to distract someone's attention or thoughts away from something, typically something stressful, worrisome, or unpleasant
The idiom "take one's mind off something" does not have a specific historical origin. It developed naturally in the English language over time as a way to describe the action of diverting one's thoughts or attention away from a specific issue or concern in order to find relief from stress, anxiety, or preoccupation.
to the full amount or degree
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used to express mild concern, surprise, or anticipation of a problem or mishap
to empty something, such as a stock, merchandise, or money
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to become aware of something, often used when someone is slow to understand a situation or misses obvious signs
used to comment on someone's unexpected or unkempt arrival, typically when they appear disheveled, tired, or out of place
to eat a large quantity of food quickly and greedily, often with little regard for manners or the amount consumed
used to express surprise, astonishment, or sometimes dismay, often in a humorous or old-fashioned
a large or overweight woman
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used to affirm or agree with something, often with added emphasis
to stop working properly, malfunction, or break down. Often used to describe a machine or system that has failed
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used to express surprise, emphasis, or sometimes excitement
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.
used to emphasize the state of insignificance, emptiness, or dissatisfaction
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extremely quickly or almost instantaneously
a term used to refer to an average or ordinary person, often in a dismissive or humorous way
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someone who is very prompt, reliable, and available when needed, especially in a situation requiring immediate action
used to indicate that something is absolutely not going to happen or is completely unacceptable, often in a playful or exaggerated manner
a man who is charming, attractive, and often romantically involved with many women
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used to convey surprise, frustration, or disbelief, often in a mild or humorous way
used to express frustration, annoyance, or emphasis. It's often used when someone is irritated or trying to convey impatience about something
used to express surprise, frustration, or disbelief
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