Category: Phrases

Would you like to refer to a group of people that have totally unrelated backgrounds or interests, but that are still gathered together as a group? Would you like to reference inanimate things that can be called an assortment of different ones? The phrase 'motley crew' can be used to say what you mean. This […]

Would you like to say that something is extremely suspenseful, or that you are waiting for something to happen at the figurative edge of your seat with a lot of anticipation? The phrase 'on tenterhooks' can be used to say this in certain contexts. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this English expression. […]

With fall just around the corner and winter on its heels, it is time to start thinking about snuggling up. When the weather turns chilly, the best thing to do is “bundle up” to stay warm and toasty. Aside from the cold weather, you can also bundle up batches of blankets to create the perfect […]

Are you looking for a way to describe encouraging someone to do something mischievous? The phrase "to egg someone on" might be just what you're looking for. Learn what this phrase means, where it came from, and how to use it in this post. ​​​Meaning The (now slightly archaic) phrase "egg on" is used in […]

Are you having a tough time but looking for a way to deal with it? Maybe you know someone going through trials and tribulations and you want to say something encouraging. If so, the idiom hang in there will come in handy. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The meaning […]

Do you ever wish that someone would give you a bit of notice before they drop by? Maybe you have an unplanned work day that was placed on your schedule and you were left uninformed. In cases like this, getting the heads up can mean the difference between a smooth encounter and a missed day […]

Chaos is inherent in many parts of life, but there is a difference between planned chaos and complete disorder. If you have a teenager that leaves things everywhere, you probably know exactly what we mean. One phrase you can use to describe this is helter-skelter. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. […]

Have you ever encountered someone who refuses to divulge any information? Maybe you prefer to keep things to yourself by remaining aloof. Have you ever wondered what it is called when a suspect clams up when talking to the police? If so, then the phrase schtum is one that you should add to your vocabulary […]

Have you ever heard of the term short shrift? If not, then you are not alone. This creative saying is rather outdated, but it is an apt way to explain when someone doesn’t give a problem enough of their attention. If you are interested in learning more about this phrase, keep reading. This post unpacks […]

Is the summer long gone, but are you suddenly enjoying a spell of warm weather in October or November? That's what you'd call an "Indian summer". Learn more about this phenomenon and its origins here, and discover how to use the phrase in a sentence. ​​​Meaning The phrase "Indian summer" refers to a short period […]