Category: Idioms

Would you like to let someone know that you are thinking of them, especially when there is an increased distance between one person and the next? The common saying 'absence makes the heart grow fonder' is an expression that can be used to mean just this. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this […]

Have you seen the phrase 'Oh Romeo Romeo wherefore art thou Romeo' somewhere and would like to know more about the meaning, context or early origin of the phrase? It is a common quote from a Shakespeare play, and it is one of the most frequently repeated phrases from all his works. This post unpacks […]

Would you like to let someone know that information or a quote comes right from the original source, and this isn't some 'friend of a friend' type of thing? The phrase 'straight from the horse's mouth' is a popular figurative saying in the English language that can be used to say it. This post unpacks […]

Would you like to say that important responsibilities or roles have moved from one person to another, or that these things are about to changes roles in the future? The phrase 'passing the torch' is a common expression that can be used to say this. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this saying. […]

Would you like to compare the superior standard of something to other things that are almost like it, but not quite the same? The phrase 'up to snuff' is a common though slightly outdated expression that can be used to say what you mean. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this common phrase. […]

Would you like to tell someone that all things have been considered and that you are doing (or saying) something as an extra precaution? The phrase 'just in case' can be used to say this to someone, and it's a common English phrase that doesn't always translate well directly into other languages. This post looks […]

Would you like to tell someone that times have changed and that things don't always work the way they expect (or are used to)? The phrase 'the times they are a changin'' is a common saying that is used to mean that a change or revolution could be on the way. This post unpacks the […]

Would you like to tell someone that they share the same point-of-view or values as you do? The phrase 'a man after my own heart' is a common expression in the English language that can be used to say just that – and it's not just exclusive to men. This post unpacks the meaning and […]

Would you like to give someone a positive progress report, or say a good word about how something is going to everyone else? The phrase 'so far so good' can be used to indicate good progress, and it's a common phrase that's often used as a whole. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of […]

Would you like to let people know that someone is a real one of a kind type of person, or that someone is really special to you and what you value? The phrase 'a man after my own heart' can be used to say this, and there are several creative ways to put this saying […]