Have you come across someone that you think has amazing qualities that are yet to be revealed? Maybe you stumbled upon an invention that can revolutionize an industry with a bit more refinement. If so, a diamond in the rough is an apt expression that explains such states perfectly. This post unpacks the meaning and […]

Have you ever noticed someone trying to suck up to the boss? Perhaps your coworker brings in treats that everyone likes just to make friends? On the other hand, are you looking for a way to get an edge? If so, then the phrase curry favor is an apt expression for you. This post unpacks […]

Have you come across several related but distinct phrases about “bow legged women” — and are you now wondering why you should or shouldn’t go swimming with them? This post unpacks the meaning and origin of these phrases. Meaning Bowlegs (medically called genu varum) are legs with a deformity that makes them curved — like […]

Do you want to add something extra to your next purchase? Maybe you are in the market for a new car and want all the luxuries you can get. If so, then the phrase bells and whistles will come in handy. If you want to learn more about this phrase, we can help. This post […]

Describing someone’s physical stance can be notoriously difficult — and if you haven’t heard the phrase “arms akimbo” before, you’re likely to find uses for it in everyday life very quickly! Learn more about this confident stance, and where the term came from, in this post. Meaning The phrase “arms akimbo” refers to a physical […]

Would you like to tell someone that it's time to go to sleep early so that they can get up earlier in the morning and feel refreshed for what they are going to face the next day? The phrase 'early to bed early to rise' is a common English language saying that can be used […]

Would you like to tell someone that they should not assume that everything has always got the best for them in store? Would you like to tell someone that they should be happy with the deal they have, and not wanting for something more? The phrase 'beggars can't be choosers' is a common saying that […]

Have you seen the phrase 'fee fi fo fum' somewhere and don't understand the meaning or context of what is being said – or for that matter, why? The saying 'fee fi fo fum' can have many implications, and the phrase comes from a popular fairy tale with many different adaptations. This post unpacks the […]

Would you like to attribute something that a person has achieved to a woman who gave them the strength or the motivation to do it? The phrase 'behind every man is a great woman' is a common saying that can be used in English, and it's not always used as a sentence with gender undertones. […]

Would you like to indicate that things are all good, or that you have good intentions with your words or actions? The phrase 'clearing the air' is a common English saying that can be used to say just this. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The phrase 'clearing the air' […]