Are you doing well after being on a downward spiral? Maybe you watched someone turn their life around when it seemed all was lost? If so, the phrase phoenix rising from the ashes is a great phrase to use to celebrate the occasion. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The […]
Category: Idioms
Push the Envelope – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Did your manager tell you it’s time to ‘push the envelope’ with your sales performance this month? This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression ‘push the envelope’ means to test and surpass the limits of your physical or mental performance. Typically, it refers to placing yourself in a risky […]
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 […]
Speak Now or Forever Hold Your Peace – Meaning, Origin and Usage
When you hear the phrase “speak now or forever hold your peace,” you might think of a couple getting married. The term is often used in Christian weddings, but it is also used in other situations. If you want to know more, this is the perfect place for you. This post unpacks the meaning and […]
Speak with a Forked Tongue – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Is someone telling lies, or acting like a hypocrite by saying one thing and doing another? You could say that this person is “speaking with a forked tongue”. Keep reading to learn more about the meaning and origin of this idiom, and to find out how to use it in a sentence. Meaning The American […]
The Face That Launched a Thousand Ships – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you looking for a poetic way to talk about a stunning woman — so beautiful, perhaps, that some might consider it dangerous? You could use the expression “a face that launched a thousand ships”. Before you do, learn about its meaning and origin by exploring this post. Meaning The expression “the face that launched […]
Time Waits for No Man – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you looking for a poetic way to tell someone to stop procrastinating and get on with things? The idiom “time waits for no man” could be what you’re looking for. Keep reading to discover what this saying means, where it came from, and how to use it. Meaning “Time waits for no man” is […]
You Reap What You Sow – Meaning, Origin and Usage
We are sure there have been times when you have seen a mean-spirited person finally get their comeuppance. Perhaps you have tried to teach your child a lesson about proper behavior. If so, we have the perfect phrase for you. Have you ever heard the phrase “you reap what you sow”? This is a trendy […]
Can’t See the Forest for The Trees – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Have you ever been in a situation where you were so focused on the details that you could not see the big picture? Maybe you have come across someone who has a singular focus on a small, but unimportant detail. If you have, then this phrase is likely to resonate with you. Read on to […]
Cast Pearls Before Swine – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Do you want to warn a friend against giving a valuable gift to someone who would not be able to appreciate it? You could use the phrase “cast pearls before swine”. Discover what this idiom means and where it came from in this post. Meaning The idiom “cast pearls before swine”, which has Biblical origins, […]