Category: Idioms

Are you looking for a way to tell someone that something is dead and has been for a while? If so, you could use the phrase, “dead as a doornail.” This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression “dead as a doornail” means to be devoid of life entirely. It’s […]

Are you looking for a way to tell someone you’re getting up early tomorrow morning? You could say you’re rising at “the crack of dawn.” This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning If you rise every morning at the “crack of dawn,” you’re getting up at “first light.” First light is […]

Are you looking for a saying to describe how important your job is in your life? You could say it’s your “bread and butter. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression “bread and butter” refers to your livelihood or income. If you have a job, then the money you […]

Did someone ask you to accompany them somewhere you’ve been before that you found highly uninteresting? If so, you could tell them that you’ve “been there, done that” as a way to say that their suggestion doesn’t excite you. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression “been there, done […]

Are you looking for an expression to tell your employees to improve their focus and performance at work? You could say it’s time to “crack the whip” and get on the floor to motivate your employees to do more with their company resources. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The […]

Are you looking for a way to say something that escaped your attention and memory? You could say you let it “fall through the cracks” of your mind. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression “fall through the cracks” means something or someone to go unnoticed, unobserved, or ignored. […]

Are you looking for a way to describe a situation that could have dual outcomes? You could say it’s a “double-edged sword.” This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression “double-edged sword” means a situation or decision that could have dual outcomes. Typically, one situation will be favorable and the […]

Are you looking for a way to describe a competitive environment? You could say you’re operating in a “dog eat dog world.” This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression “dog eats dog world” means a very competitive environment. Most people use it to describe the business world and people […]

Are you looking for a way to tell someone that a song reminds you of someone you love and makes you feel heartsore for them? You could use the saying “if music be the food of love, play on” to describe your emotional state. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning […]

Are you looking for a way to tell someone to hang on and make it through the tough times in their life? You could use “It’s always darkest before the dawn” to give them hope that things will turn around. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The proverbial expression “it’s […]