Bending over backwards for someone or something is quite impossible unless you’re a seasoned gymnast or a yoga practitioner. So, what does this idiom mean? When should you use it in a sentence, and when is it appropriate to use this phrase? There is some evidence of the use of the phrase dating back as […]
Mada Mada – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Have you heard the phrase “mada mada?” Perhaps you’re a fan of the video game Overwatch, or you enjoy manga or anime. This article explains the meaning and origin of the idiom “mada mada,” how to use the phrase correctly in context, and other phrases you can use to convey the same meaning. Meaning “Mada […]
Suck It Up, Buttercup! – Meaning, Usage and Origin
Have you ever heard anyone say, “suck it up, buttercup!”? Or have you ever used it yourself? If so, then you are probably already aware that it is a common, popular idiom. That doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re using it correctly or understanding its meaning entirely, though. Let’s look at precisely what this phrase means […]
Negative Ghost Rider – Meaning, Usage and Origin
You’ve likely heard the idiom “negative, Ghost Rider” used in pop culture. Even without knowing its origin, you may have been able to deduce its meaning from context. But where did the phrase originate, and what does it mean? Meaning The idiom “negative, Ghost Rider” is a playful way of saying “no.” It can be […]
Dap Me Up – Meaning, Usage and Origin
What does it mean when someone says, “dap me up”? This article covers the meaning and origins of the phrase and examples of correct and incorrect usage. Meaning The idiom “Dap me up” is an informal greeting used between friends or acquaintances. The phrase is literally a request for someone to “give dap” to the […]
How Now Brown Cow – Meaning, Usage and Origin
The phrase “how now brown cow” is a frequently recited but misunderstood idiom. You may have heard it in movies or from friends, but what does it really mean? In this article, you’ll learn more about this fascinating phrase, including its meaning, origins, and usage. We’ll also provide some well-known examples of the phrase from […]
Don’t Do Anything I Wouldn’t Do – Meaning and Usage
Idioms like ‘Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do’ can be confusing and make no sense if you are not sure what the intention is in the phrase. You may hear this in several circumstances. ‘Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do’ is a vague phrase that is a casual parting for close friends, acquaintances, and family […]
Running on Fumes – Meaning, Usage and Origin
Have you ever jumped in your car and noticed that your gas light was on and the needle just slightly above the “E.” Did you suspect that you were running on fumes? Unless you are one of those people who fill their tank before it gets to the halfway mark, this idiom is probably pretty […]
Ginning Up – Meaning, Usage and Origin
Have you ever heard the phrase ‘gin up?’ Like many people out there, you might have encountered this phrase but never thought about its meaning. The phrase ‘Gin Up’ has existed since the 14th century. However, its usage in speech remained minimal until President Obama mentioned the phrase in his political speech in 2020. Since […]
Oh My Stars and Garters – Meaning, Usage and Origin
Oh, my stars and garters” has been used in the English language for centuries. The phrase was particularly prevalent several decades ago. Meaning “Oh, my stars and garters” is an exclamation of astonishment. The idiom is a way to convey shock, similar to how “Oh my God” is commonly used today. Examples “Two Muffins are […]