Category: Phrases

Would you like to describe someone who is so cruel and mean that there has got to be a specific word or term for it? The phrase 'cold heart' or 'cold hearted' can be used to say exactly this and most people will know what you mean. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of […]

Would you like to indicate that something is legally legitimate, or that something is not? The phrase 'above board' can be used in some contexts to say this, and it is a common phrase used in popular media and culture. This post looks at the meaning, origin and correct/incorrect use of the term. Meaning The […]

Would you like to point out that someone is shy, or that they shy away from everyone in the group as a typical introvert? The phrase 'shrinking violet' is a common saying that can be used in reference or direct speech, though it is not common everywhere in the world. This post unpacks the meaning […]

Would you like to give someone a vague indication of timeframe, often as reassurance, to let them know that something is sure or constant during this time? The phrase 'as long as' can be used to compare one time-or-occurence related thing to someone else, though it can easily confuse. This phrase unpacks the meaning and […]

Have you seen the phrase 'in the pink' somewhere and would like to know more about the meaning and context of the saying? The saying 'in the pink' does not mean what most people imagine it does when they first hear it, and the innocent phrase derives from William Shakespeare. This post unpacks the meaning […]

Have you seen the phrase 'swan song' somewhere, and would like to know more about the use and context of the saying? 'Swan song' is a saying that can be used to refer to someone's retirement, or to their last great accomplishment. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of the phrase. Meaning The expression […]

Would you like to indicate that something was discouraged, deterred or kept away from something else? The phrase 'at bay' is a common English saying that can be used to indicate this, though it can confuse speakers who have never heard it before. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this saying. Meaning The […]

Would you like to let someone know that they should try their best to preserve their honor or reputation in the situation they're in? The phrase 'saving face' is one that could apply to what you're trying to say, though the saying does not translate well to all languages. This post unpacks the meaning and […]

Would you like to ask someone how it's going with them in the most casual, cool way that you can think of? The phrase 'how's it hanging?' can be used to ask someone how they're doing today, and the common saying has made a popular comeback thanks to social media and pop culture. This post […]

Would you like to tell someone that all things have been considered in what has just been said, or would you like to point out that the whole picture should be thought about or discussed? The phrase 'by large' is a common expression that could be used to mean this in English. This post unpacks […]