Are you looking for a way to describe encouraging someone to do something mischievous? The phrase "to egg someone on" might be just what you're looking for. Learn what this phrase means, where it came from, and how to use it in this post. Meaning The (now slightly archaic) phrase "egg on" is used in […]
Short Shrift – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Have you ever heard of the term short shrift? If not, then you are not alone. This creative saying is rather outdated, but it is an apt way to explain when someone doesn’t give a problem enough of their attention. If you are interested in learning more about this phrase, keep reading. This post unpacks […]
Schtum – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Have you ever encountered someone who refuses to divulge any information? Maybe you prefer to keep things to yourself by remaining aloof. Have you ever wondered what it is called when a suspect clams up when talking to the police? If so, then the phrase schtum is one that you should add to your vocabulary […]
No Love Lost – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Did someone tell you there's 'no love lost' between you and them? This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression 'no love lost' means a mutual feeling of animosity or hatred between two parties. If your day there's no love lost between you and someone else, it means that you […]
Moth to a Flame – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Did something catch your attention? If you can't stop staring at it, you could say you're drawn to it like a 'moth to a flame.' This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression 'moth to a flame' defines a type of attraction with the potential to cause harm to someone. […]
Many Hands Make Light Work – Meaning, Origin and Usage
There are plenty of occasions when one person is assigned a large amount of work. Perhaps it is setting up for a large birthday party or even cleaning up after a family meal. If there are more people around to help, the work will go more quickly and there will be less resentment. One way […]
Love is Blind – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Did your friend start dating someone you don't find physically attractive? You could say 'love is blind' to describe their decision. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression 'love is blind' means that people in love don't see the faults in each other. The emotions produced by their relationship […]
Kill Time – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Did a friend tell you they’re coming to your place to kill time before they meet someone else? This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The expression ‘kill time’ or ‘killing time’ means you have time to waste before starting an important task, meeting with someone, or waiting for an event. […]
Lights are on but Nobody's Home – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Is the new guy at work struggling to make an impact? If he looks unintelligent, you could say, 'the lights are on, but nobody's home' to describe his idiocy. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning You can use the expression 'the lights are on, but nobody's home' to describe a […]
Keeping an Eye – Meaning, Origin and Usage
Are you baking a cake and are you not sure when it needs to come out of the oven? Have you noticed someone suspicious in your neighborhood? You'll want to "keep an eye on" both of these things! Keep reading to learn more about the meaning of this phrase, and to find out how to […]