The origin of the idiom "plain as the nose on one's face" lies in the undeniable visibility and obviousness of one's facial features. The phrase signifies that something is extremely clear, evident, or easily discernible, much like the unmistakable presence of a person's nose on their face. It is primarily used to emphasize the lack of ambiguity or complexity, suggesting that the truth or reality of a situation is readily apparent and requires no further explanation.

What is the origin of the idiom "plain as the nose on one's face" and when to use it?

(as|) plain as the nose on  {one's} face

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The phrase "flash in the pan" originated from a type of gun, called a flintlock, in the 17th century. The gun had a small compartment that held a material that would ignite and create a flash of light when the gun was fired. However, sometimes this material would not ignite the main charge of the gun, resulting in no shot being fired. The metaphor of the flash of light without any real action can be applied to many situations where something looks impressive or successful but ultimately fails to achieve anything meaningful or lasting.

What is the origin of the idiom "fish in the pan" and when to use it?

flash in the pan

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to go together

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The idiom "hit the nail on the head" originated from carpentry, referring to literally striking a nail perfectly in one attempt on the center of its head with a hammer. This idiom emerged in the early 16th century, capturing how difficult but satisfactory it was to precisely target the small head of a nail. The expression is now used to describe getting straight to the heart of a matter, or precisely identifying and understanding an issue.

What is the origin of the idiom "hit the nail on the head" and when to use it?

to [hit] the nail on the head

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love at first sight

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The origin of the phrase "pop the question" dates back to the 19th century and is related to the tradition of marriage proposals. The word "pop" in this context means to ask or propose, while "the question" refers to the marriage proposal itself. This phrase is commonly used to refer to the act of proposing marriage. It implies a sense of anticipation, excitement, and marks an important moment in a romantic relationship

What is the origin of the idiom "pop the question" and when to use it?

to [pop] the question

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The exact origin of the idiom "pull one's leg" is not well-documented, but it likely originated in the United Kingdom in the late 19th century. The phrase was first used to describe someone joking or teasing another person in a playful or humorous way. The idea behind the expression is that when you pull someone's leg, you are metaphorically playing a light-hearted trick on them, much like a prank or a jest. This expression is used to imply that someone is teasing or joking with another person, often in a good-natured and playful manner. It is a way to suggest that what has been said may not be entirely truthful or that it is meant to be taken with a grain of salt. It is commonly used in informal conversations to lighten the mood or to acknowledge humor.

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

to [pull] {one's} leg

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The idiom "rob the cradle" originated in the early 19th century and draws upon the imagery of a cradle, which is a small bed for an infant. The term "rob" in this context conveys the idea of taking or stealing something that belongs to someone else. This idiom is typically used to comment on relationships where there is a significant age difference between the two individuals involved. It often carries a negative or judgmental connotation, implying that the older partner is engaging in a relationship that may be deemed inappropriate or questionable due to the age gap.

What is the origin of the idiom "rob the cradle" and when to use it?

to [rob] the cradle

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The exact origin of the phrase "tie the knot" is uncertain but it is believed to have originated from the imagery of tying a knot to represent the joining together of two individuals in marriage. Metaphorically, the act of tying a knot is often associated with making a secure and unbreakable bond or commitment. This notion is applied to the context of marriage, symbolizing the union and lifelong commitment between two people. This phrase is commonly used to refer to the act of marriage.

What is the origin of the idiom "tie the knot" and when to use it?

to [tie] the knot

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The origin of the phrase "get hitched" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. The word "hitch" originally meant to fasten or join something together, and it gradually evolved to be associated with marriage or a committed relationship. This phrase is commonly used to refer to the act of getting married, especially in casual conversations or informal settings.

What is the origin of the idiom "get hitched" and when to use it?

to [get] hitched

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to [walk] arm in arm

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to [strut] {one's} stuff

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to turn on

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Big Apple

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to [compare] apples and oranges

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how do you like them apples

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pea brain

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beet red

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a bowl of cherries

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for corn's sake

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corn

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cornball

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Fruit is a slang term for a homosexual man that appeared in early 20th-century English, particularly in North America and Britain. The term likely draws on the association of fruit with sweetness, delicacy, or decorative appeal, and it was applied to men perceived as effeminate or nonconforming. Historically, it was derogatory, often used to mock, belittle, or insult gay men. Over time, some gay communities have reclaimed it playfully or ironically, but outside those circles it remains offensive and is generally avoided in neutral or polite conversation.

What is the origin of the term "fruit" and how is it used?

fruit

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wrinkled as a prune

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pumpkin

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sprout

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tomato

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Lesson 2

English words used in Street Talk 3  - Lesson 2