Category: Phrases

Did a friend just say ‘ciao’ instead of goodbye to you? This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression ‘ciao’ is a farewell or welcoming greeting used as a pleasantry in conversation. You can say it when greeting a friend or saying goodbye to them. It’s a flexible greeting akin […]

Are you looking for a polite way to ask your boss for direction on a project? Maybe a client is looking for extra work but your supervisor has not signed off. One way to ask for clear direction in a professional manner is to say “please advise”. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of […]

Did a friend sign off their text message with big ups? This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression ‘big ups’ is an acknowledgment of the other person you’re talking to in the conversation. You can also use ‘big ups’ when addressing crowds. Typically, ‘big ups’ serves as a modern […]

Blue-collar jobs are the backbone of any economy! They include jobs in manufacturing, construction, and manual labor. These jobs are often dangerous and physically demanding but essential to keeping things running. However, have you ever wondered what exactly the term blue collar means and where it came from? If so, you are in the right […]

Did a waiter serve you food and say ‘Bon appetite’ before walking away? What do they mean? This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression ‘Bon appetite’ is a French saying translating to ‘good appetite’ in English. You’ll use ‘Bon appetite’ when serving people food. The phrase is suitable for […]

The expression 'sic semper tyrannis' is one that is found in ancient inscriptions, sometimes mentioned in history books and occasionally exclaimed at assassinations. What does the term 'sic semper tyrannis' mean? This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this Latin term. Meaning The term 'sic semper tyrannis' is a common expression that is derived […]

Would you like to let somebody know that you are in agreement with something they have said, or that you see something in the same way? The term 'on the same page' can be used to apply to most such situations. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The term 'on […]

Are you looking for a word that will let someone know they are using you as the scapegoat in their conversation, or as a psychological barrier for their mischief? You could use the term 'gaslighting' to make your meaning more clear. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The term 'gaslighting' […]

Have you seen the term 'baka' on social media websites like TikTok or YouTube and don't understand the context? If you need an appropriate insult or want to find out what someone has called you, the term 'baka' is a common modern internet term that needs context. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of […]

Are you looking at a strong-willed, confident woman? You could call her an ‘Albatraoz.’ This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression ‘Albatraoz’ is a play on words referring to the giant seabird with a 12-foot wingspan, the albatross. In most cases, the phrase appears as a reference to a […]