to make two or more strangers get comfortable with each other and engage in a conversation
The idiom "break the ice" originates from the custom of ships breaking through ice formations in colder regions to create a navigable path for other vessels. In a figurative sense, this expression is used to emphasize the idea of making a situation more comfortable and approachable, much like breaking through the initial barriers of ice.
someone who does not express emotions and is considered unfriendly
The idiom "cold fish" has its roots in the early 20th century and it likely stems from the association of fish with cold-blooded animals that do not exhibit warm emotions or expressions. It is used to describe someone who seems unfeeling, aloof, or indifferent, often making it difficult for others to form a close or emotional connection with them.
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to get straight to the point or the most important part of a matter without wasting time on irrelevant details or preamble
The idiom "cut to the chase" has its origins in early Hollywood film-making during the silent film era. Film plots often included dramatic and action-filled chase scenes. However, some film-makers felt that these scenes were the most engaging part of the movie, while others were merely filler. To appeal to audiences, studios began placing the most thrilling parts, the "chase scenes," toward the end of the film. The phrase "cut to the chase" then emerged and used as a metaphor for skipping the unnecessary or less interesting parts and getting straight to the exciting and crucial elements.
to begin talking about basic or important facts of a situation
The exact origin of the idiom "get down to brass tacks" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-19th century. It refers to the use of brass tacks to fasten upholstery or other materials to furniture. When someone was "getting down to brass tacks," they were getting down to the essential details or fundamentals of something. It is often used to urge people to stop talking about general ideas or theories and start talking about specific plans or actions.
![to [go] easy on {sb}](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/45996/original/?type=jpeg)
to treat a person in a more gentle and caring way and be less harsh or strict with them
The origin of the idiom "go easy on someone" is not well-documented, but it likely developed from the idea of moderating one's behavior or treatment toward someone. The use of "easy" in this context implies taking a gentle or lenient approach.This expression is used to suggest that a person should be less critical, harsh, or demanding toward another person. It is often employed when advising someone to be more considerate, forgiving, or understanding in their actions or words.
![to [hate] {one's} guts](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/44632/original/?type=jpeg)
to hate someone to an extreme degree
The origin of the idiom "hate someone's guts" is not definitively documented, but it likely stems from the idea that a person's intestines, specifically the guts, are associated with strong emotions and feelings. It often arises in heated personal conflicts, arguments, or discussions where individuals want to emphasize the intensity of their negative feelings.
to regain composure, control emotions, or focus, especially in a stressful or emotional situation
to lessen the value or esteem of something or someone, often through spoken words or criticism
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to examine someone or something in order to form a judgment
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a single piece of furniture, often used to emphasize an individual item rather than a set
used to advise someone to trust one's judgment or experience concerning a particular matter
The idiom "take it from me" is believed to have originated in the 17th century and is used to express confidence in the veracity of one's statement or opinion. It is used to suggest that the speaker has personal experience or knowledge that supports their assertion, making their words more credible and persuasive.
used to describe something impressive, intense, or persistent, often referring to physical traits, energy, or quality
used to refer to someone who is not paying attention or is not intelligent enough
The exact origin of the idiom "the lights are on, but nobody is home" is unclear. It has been in use for quite some time, and its origins are likely rooted in the concept of a house or building with illuminated lights but no signs of activity or inhabitants. The phrase is a figurative expression, drawing a comparison between physical presence and mental absence. It has become a common idiomatic expression in the English language to express the notion of someone being mentally absent or disconnected despite physically being present. It conveys a sense of someone being inattentive or unresponsive, as if their mind is elsewhere or not actively engaged.
to develop in a particular way, especially with regard to the final outcome of a situation or process
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