The idiom "along the lines of something" originated from the concept of following a particular course, direction, or pattern. It is mainly used to suggest similarity or resemblance to a specific idea, concept, or example. In other words, the phrase conveys the idea of aligning or conforming to a certain model or framework, implying that the thing being discussed shares similarities with the mentioned concept or example, although not necessarily identical.

What is the origin of the idiom "along the lines of something" and when to use it?

along the lines of {sth}

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at large

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The idiom "front burner" comes from cooking, where a stove has multiple burners. The front burners are used for pots and pans that need immediate attention because they are more easily accessible and typically deal with the most urgent cooking tasks. In contrast to the back burners, which hold food that can simmer or be delayed, the front burner is associated with high priority. Metaphorically, the term "front burner" was adopted in the 20th century to describe issues, tasks, or concerns that require immediate focus and priority, similar to how the front burners are used for things that need constant monitoring.

What is the origin of the idiom "front burner" and when to use it?

front burner

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to backfire

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bank job

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=YmFuayBqb2I&hash=d20483f3b69a88d0f4c9d4bf3657f31cb5a058d5&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

The idiom "behind bars" originated from the physical structure of prisons, where prisoners are confined within cells that are typically equipped with bars or solid doors. The use of bars as a means of imprisonment has been prevalent throughout history, dating back to ancient times. The phrase is used to refer to individuals who have been convicted of a crime and are serving a prison sentence or awaiting trial while being detained.

What is the origin of the idiom "behind bars" and when to use it?

behind bars

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capitol hill

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to carry out

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to come forward

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gY29tZSBmb3J3YXJk&hash=c0ad0dc3debb6fc2a0a6aba6edd760fee3642471&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

The origin of the idiom "on one's heels" can be traced back to the literal interpretation of the word "heels" as the back part of the foot. Historically, it referred to the act of someone following closely behind another person, much like a person following in the footsteps of the one in front. This phrase is used in various contexts or occasions to describe a situation where someone feels constantly pursued, monitored, or bothered by another person or entity. It can refer to both physical and metaphorical instances of being closely followed or hounded.

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

on {one's} [heels]

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crackdown

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=Y3JhY2tkb3du&hash=bb68b503e7f637c70397ecbc33217b77edad35af&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

crook

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=Y3Jvb2s&hash=d8d2ffa74cc90855be46fc492ca474ee316b5614&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

cutback

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=Y3V0YmFjaw&hash=b9acb28f25fc8f855f1f2c7e7a4bf7fe60a0746a&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

to face up to

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gZmFjZSB1cCB0bw&hash=d358c79d34e31b9159c8e3e4efdc17efe2604353&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

heist

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=aGVpc3Q&hash=843d2b8b687110771601094194b76505ed0e37ac&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

to hinge on

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gaGluZ2Ugb24&hash=90862fc28ad4f646d4f30816a6486ba66f4abfc6&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

The idiom "in broad daylight" has its origin in the literal meaning of daylight, referring to the period of time during which the sun is visible and illuminates the surroundings. The phrase signifies that something is happening or occurring openly, visibly, and without concealment, typically during the daytime when visibility is high. It implies that an action or event is taking place in a public or exposed manner, without any attempt to hide or disguise it. The idiom is commonly used to emphasize the audacity or brazenness of an act that occurs in plain view, often suggesting a lack of concern for consequences or a belief that one can act with impunity.

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

in broad daylight

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to jump-start

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8ganVtcC1zdGFydA&hash=7f4dd5533ad1b3df97a85dec43559c8134e82915&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

to knock off

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The phrase "lie in wait" is an idiom that means to secretly wait for the right time to catch or attack an enemy, prey, or target. The origin of this phrase is rooted in the idea of predators or hunters lying hidden and still, ready to seize their moment to strike.

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

to [lie] in wait

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to nab

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gbmFi&hash=ac6b9f3c3fdf22422ebe388c4259a9dd33f5739c&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

The origin of the idiom "on shaky ground" is unclear, but it likely comes from the idea of standing on ground that is not firm or stable, such as on loose soil or an uneven surface. The phrase is often used to describe situations where there is a risk of failure or uncertainty, such as a struggling business or a relationship experiencing problems. It can also be used in personal situations, such as when someone is unsure of their footing or in a dangerous physical situation.

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

on shaky ground

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on the floor

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=b24gdGhlIGZsb29y&hash=234425c27410519719c18c1ae5dfe7b584989ec9&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

The origin of the idiom "the powers that be" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the Bible, specifically in the Book of Romans, where it is used to refer to God's authority. Over time, the phrase came to be used more broadly to refer to any powerful or influential group or individual.

What is the origin of the idiom "the powers that be" and when to use it?

the powers that be

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private eye

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=cHJpdmF0ZSBleWU&hash=ace24689e0ae080091703b3f89e202049c8dd684&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

to shoot down

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gc2hvb3QgZG93bg&hash=caf83b5190fbd97aeb39d4f5670931f9db1a3691&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

to get around

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underway

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Lesson 4

English words used in Street Talk 1  - Lesson 4