Category: Phrases

Are you looking for an expression to use to describe someone going nowhere in life? You could use “ne’er do well.” This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression “ne’er do well” refers to a person that can’t get ahead in life. It’s a way of calling someone a “failure […]

Are you looking for a way to take the blame for something minor? If so, you could use the expression, “my bad.” Let’s unpack the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The meaning of “my bad” is an apologetic reaction to someone else for your behavior. The saying has versatility in conversation and can […]

Are you looking for a way to describe changing life circumstances? Maybe you’re looking for the right way to word a moving holiday like Easter? If so, you could call it a “movable feast.” This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression “movable feast” describes an event that changes the […]

Are you looking for a way to draw people's attention to someone or something? If so, you could use "lo and behold" to get them to notice. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression "lo and behold" is the shortened version of the full-length term "'look.' So, lo and […]

Are you looking for a way to describe someone that turns up out of nowhere to help you in a fix? If so, you could call them a “Johnny on the spot.” This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The meaning of the expression “Johnny on the spot” is someone at […]

Are you looking for a way to describe a friend falling deeply in love? If so, you could say she is “head over heels” in love with her partner. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression “head over heels” means that you are excited and thrilled with aspects of […]

Did your friend just get in an argument with you, and you’re ready to go to war with them over your principles? If that’s the case, you could say you’re “going to the mattresses” to win the argument. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning If you’re “going to the mattresses,” […]

Are you looking for a way to wish someone a good night? If so, you could tell them “sleep tight.” This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The meaning of the expression “sleep tight” is a farewell greeting to people wishing them a pleasant, restful night. You’re wishing them a peaceful […]

Are you looking for a way to describe someone with an advantageous position over others in a competition? If so,. You could say they are a “Shoo-in” to win. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression “shoo-in” means to let people know that you have the best chance of […]

Are you looking for a way to tell someone to hurry up? If so, you could ask them to “shake a leg.” This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The meaning of the expression “shake a leg” is to hurry up because you’re late. If someone asks you to shake a […]