Have you seen the phrase 'go forth and multiply' somewhere and would like to know more behind the context and meaning of the saying? If someone says 'go forth and multiply' it can be a serious phrase, but also a serious insult. This post looks at the meaning and origin of the common English language […]
Forewarned is Forearmed – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Have you seen the phrase 'forewarned is forearmed' somewhere and would like to know more about the context of the saying? 'Forewarned is forearmed' is a common expression in English that refers to preparation or prevention of something. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this saying. Meaning The phrase 'forewarned is forearmed' is […]
Putting the Cart Before the Horse – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Would you like to let someone know that they are jumping to conclusions, or that they are acting much faster than they are supposed to? The phrase 'putting the cart before the horse' is a common saying that can be used to say what you mean. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this […]
Bundle Up – Meaning, Origin and Usage
With fall just around the corner and winter on its heels, it is time to start thinking about snuggling up. When the weather turns chilly, the best thing to do is “bundle up” to stay warm and toasty. Aside from the cold weather, you can also bundle up batches of blankets to create the perfect […]
On Tenterhooks – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Would you like to say that something is extremely suspenseful, or that you are waiting for something to happen at the figurative edge of your seat with a lot of anticipation? The phrase 'on tenterhooks' can be used to say this in certain contexts. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this English expression. […]
Motley Crew – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Would you like to refer to a group of people that have totally unrelated backgrounds or interests, but that are still gathered together as a group? Would you like to reference inanimate things that can be called an assortment of different ones? The phrase 'motley crew' can be used to say what you mean. This […]
By Large – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Would you like to tell someone that all things have been considered in what has just been said, or would you like to point out that the whole picture should be thought about or discussed? The phrase 'by large' is a common expression that could be used to mean this in English. This post unpacks […]
Helter-Skelter – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Chaos is inherent in many parts of life, but there is a difference between planned chaos and complete disorder. If you have a teenager that leaves things everywhere, you probably know exactly what we mean. One phrase you can use to describe this is helter-skelter. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. […]
Heads Up – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Do you ever wish that someone would give you a bit of notice before they drop by? Maybe you have an unplanned work day that was placed on your schedule and you were left uninformed. In cases like this, getting the heads up can mean the difference between a smooth encounter and a missed day […]
Hang in There – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you having a tough time but looking for a way to deal with it? Maybe you know someone going through trials and tribulations and you want to say something encouraging. If so, the idiom hang in there will come in handy. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The meaning […]