Category: Phrases

The term 'cisgender' is a term that is becoming more common on the internet, and there is a whole wave of people who still might not understand what it means. If you have seen the term 'cisgender' then the first thing to know is that it's the direct opposite of the term 'transgender'. This post […]

Have you seen the term 'RSVP' appear anywhere on social media and need to know what the term means? The term 'RSVP' is a common request that appears on invitations, and many people still don't know that the term comes from French. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this term. Meaning The term […]

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 […]

Would you like to draw a comparison between two things that are very much like one another, or two things that happen to be exactly alike? The expression 'one in the same' is a common English saying that will say what you mean. This post unpacks the meaning, origin and early use of this expression. […]