Did your boss just ask you to "pull out all the stops" on your project? What do they mean? This post unpacks everything you need to know about this idiomatic expression's origin, meaning, and use. Meaning If you tell someone that you're going to "pull out all the stops," it means that you're going to […]
Heavens to Murgatroyd - Meaning, Origin and Usage
Did your grandma just say "heavens to Murgatroyd" after she saw you for the first time in months? What does she mean? This post unpacks everything you need to know about this idiomatic expression's meaning, origin, and use. Meaning Picture the scene. You're walking to the corner store when you hear gunfire and see two […]
Apples to Apples – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you unsure that you're getting a good deal? If you feel someone is trying to shortchange you in a swap, you could ask them to compare "apples to apples" when assessing the value of your item. This post unpacks everything you need to know about the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The […]
Bees Knees – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you looking for a way to describe something as the coolest thing you've ever seen? If so, you could use the phrase "bee's knees." This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning If you're describing something as "the bee's knees," it means that it's the best or "coolest" thing in its […]
Al Fresco - Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you thinking about heading to the local seafood restaurant for a meal? The waiter will likely offer you "al fresco" dining in the open air when you arrive. They may also offer to read you the "al fresco" specials of the day, but what do they mean? This post unpacks everything you need to know […]
All is Fair in Love and War - Meaning, Origin and Usage
Did your friend just tell you that she started a relationship with your boyfriend? During the shock of hearing them tell you that, you're likely to ask them why they would do that. They reply with "all is fair in love and war," but what does that mean? This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this […]
Aalaye – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you typing with someone in a chat and suspect they are a scammer? If so, you could type the word "aalaye" and see how they respond. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this word. Meaning The word "aalaye" comes from the native Nigerian language of the Yuba tribe. The word's original meaning […]
Actions Speak Louder than Words – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you looking for a way to tell a person that they need to start sticking to the promises they make? The expression "actions speak louder than words" should stop and make them think about their behavior. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this proverbial saying. Meaning The proverb "actions speak louder than […]
All the Gods All the Heavens – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you contemplating something serious in life? If so, another person may tell you "all the gods, all the heavens," but what do they mean? This post unpacks everything you need to know about the meaning and origin of this proverb. Meaning The meaning of the phrase "all the gods, all the heavens" refers to […]
Apple of My Eye – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you looking for a way to tell someone that they matter most to you in life? This post unpacks the meaning and origin of the proverbial saying, "the apple of my eye." Meaning Calling someone "the apple of my eye" means that you think they are your favorite person on the planet. It means […]