Is your friend sitting next to you in the passenger seat of your car? If so, you could say they are “riding shotgun” on the road trip. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression “riding shotgun” means that you’re riding in the passenger seat of a vehicle alongside the […]
Pardon my French – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you about to use profanity to emphasize your speech? If so, you could give the listener a warning of what’s to come by using the saying, “pardon my French.” This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression “pardon my French” has several uses in the English language. It serves […]
Live Long and Prosper – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you looking for a way to bid someone farewell in a quirky manner? If so, you could tell them goodbye with the phrase “live long and prosper.” This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this saying. Meaning When someone greets you with “live long and prosper,” they are telling you to have a […]
I Appreciate It – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you looking for a different way to say “thank you” to someone? If so, you could use the expression “I appreciate it” instead. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression “I appreciate it” is another way of saying “thank you.” We started using gratitude in terms in the […]
Home Is Where the Heart Is – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you looking for a way to tell someone that you’re comfortable in your surroundings even while you’re away from home? If so, you could use the saying “home is where the heart is” to show them that you’re fine where you are. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this saying. Meaning The […]
How to Write a CER (Step-by-Step)
Have you been asked to write a CER for the first time? Although the process can seem complicated at first sight, CER statements are logical and follow a prescribed formula. Once you learn what steps you should follow, crafting a high-quality CER statement becomes surprisingly simple. Here’s how. Basics: What Is a CER? Good science […]
Taken Aback – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you looking for a way to express your shock or disgust with something or someone? If so, you could say that you’re “taken aback” by their behavior. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this phrase. Meaning If you’re telling someone you’re “taken aback,” it means that you are in shock or disbelief […]
Raining Cats and Dogs – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Is the rain pouring down outside right now? If so, you could say that it’s “raining cats and dogs.” This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning If you’re driving through a severe rainstorm, then you can say it’s “raining cats and dogs.” It’s a somewhat peculiar expression since cats and dogs […]
Less is More – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you looking for a way to tell someone to take a minimalist approach to their life? If so, you could say to them, “less is more.” This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The phrase “less is more” means that a minimalist approach is often the best strategy. The term […]
For the Birds – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you looking for a way to tell someone that what they are saying is irrelevant and means nothing to you? If so, you could tell them that it’s “for the birds.” This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The meaning of the expression “for the birds” is “something trivial or […]