Would you like to let someone know that they are only scratching the surface of the issue, and that there is much more to see or discuss? The term 'tip of the iceberg' can be the one that you use to apply to this. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning […]
Category: Idioms
Hook Line and Sinker – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Have you seen someone who would believe almost anything wholeheartedly, or accept anything that someone told them without much questioning or thought going into it? The term 'hook line and sinker' is a popular expression that can be used to point this out to others. This term unpacks the meaning and origin of this saying. […]
Don't Take No Wooden Nickels – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Would you like to tell someone that they are walking into a potentially dangerous situation where they might be swindled into a scam without realizing it? The expression 'don't take no wooden nickels' is a common saying that can let someone know that they are about to be scammed. This post unpacks the meaning and […]
Stirring the Pot – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Do you know someone who just loves to stir up situations and conflict, and would like to know the right term to call them out? The expression 'stirring the pot' has been in common usage in English for centuries. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The common term 'stirring the […]
Where There's a Will There's a Way – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Would you like to lend someone a word of encouragement and let them know that they are going to find a way to accomplish their goals? The saying 'where there's a will there's a way' is one of the most common ways in which someone can be given a word of encouragement. This term unpacks […]
There Are None As Blind (As Those Who Will Not See) – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Do you know someone who doesn't recognize a situation (or its solution) even when it might be staring them right in the face? The expression 'There Are None As Blind (As Those Who Will Not See)' is one that you can use to apply to them. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this […]
Naked as a Jaybird – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you looking for an idiom to describe a fully unclothed state? You could consider using the saying "naked as a jaybird". Discover where this idiom came from, as well as how to use it, in this post. Meaning The American idiom "naked as a jaybird" simply means that someone is completely naked; not wearing […]
No Good Deed Goes Unpunished – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Did you try to help someone, and it backfired in your face? You could say that no good deed goes unpunished. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression ‘no good deed goes unpunished’ means that you tried to help someone or add value to a situation, only to create […]
Oldie but a Goodie – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Do you really appreciate that classic rock song, that chocolate-chip cookie, or those old jeans you've been wearing for at least a decade? You can say that any of these things are an "oldie but a goodie". This posts looks at the meaning of this idiom, which has itself become an "oldie but a goodie". […]
On the Ball – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Did your boss tell you you’re doing a great job, and she’s glad you’re ‘on the ball’ with the project? This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression ‘on the ball’ refers to someone sharp, intelligent, motivated, and capable. They are someone that doesn’t need any nurturing or assistance to […]