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 […]
De Facto - Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you searching for a term to describe a fact without official recognition or approval? If so, you could use "de facto." This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this phrase. Meaning The "de facto" is a Latin word meaning "in reality" or "of fact." It usually appears in contrast to the word "de […]
Calm Before the Storm - Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you looking for a way to warn people of incoming danger or bad news? If that’s the case, you could tell them that they are in the calm before the storm, and they should expect bad things on the horizon. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning “The calm before […]
Brownie Points - Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you looking for a way to give someone kudos or tell them that you owe them a favor? If so, you could use the expression "brownie points" to describe your approval of what they do for you. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression "brownie points" means that […]
Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder - Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you looking for a way to tell someone that beauty is subjective? If that's the case, you could use the phrase "beauty is in the eye of the beholder." This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this proverbial saying. Meaning "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder" means that everyone's view of […]