Idiom of the day

Give someone the cold shoulder

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Meaning: This idiom is used to describe the act of deliberately ignoring or treating someone with aloofness, indifference, or hostility, often as a way of expressing disapproval, rejection, or displeasure towards them. It implies refusing to engage or interact with someone, typically in a manner that is unfriendly or dismissive.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “After the argument, she gave him the cold shoulder for days.”
  2. “He tried to start a conversation with her, but she gave him the cold shoulder and walked away.”
  3. “They invited her to the party, but she gave them the cold shoulder and didn’t even acknowledge their presence.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “give someone the cold shoulder” is uncertain, but it likely originated from literal actions of serving a cold shoulder of meat to an unwanted guest or disregarding someone’s request for warmth or hospitality. Over time, the phrase evolved into a metaphorical expression used to describe the act of snubbing or rejecting someone socially or emotionally. It emphasizes the idea of deliberately ignoring or excluding someone from social interaction as a means of expressing disapproval or disdain

give someone the cold shoulder
Idiom of the day

Have a heart of gold

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Meaning: This idiom is used to describe someone who is exceptionally kind, generous, and compassionate. It implies possessing a genuinely good and caring nature, often characterized by a willingness to help others and show empathy or sympathy towards those in need.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “Despite facing hardship herself, she always puts others first; she truly has a heart of gold.”
  2. “He’s known for his acts of kindness and generosity; he has a heart of gold.”
  3. “She volunteers at the homeless shelter every weekend; she’s got a heart of gold.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “have a heart of gold” is uncertain, but it likely stems from the metaphorical association of the heart with emotions such as kindness, compassion, and generosity, and the precious metal gold, which symbolizes value, purity, and worth. Over time, the phrase evolved into a common idiom used to describe individuals who exhibit exceptional goodness and benevolence towards others. It emphasizes the inherent goodness and kindness of the person being described.

Have a heart of gold
Idiom of the day

Get cold feet

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Meaning: This idiom is used to describe experiencing sudden nervousness, hesitation, or fear, especially before carrying out a planned action or undertaking a significant decision. It implies feeling apprehensive or doubtful about proceeding with something that was previously agreed upon or planned.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “He was all set to propose, but he got cold feet at the last moment and backed out.”
  2. “They were excited about starting their own business, but they got cold feet when they realized the risks involved.”
  3. “She had been looking forward to the trip, but she got cold feet when she saw the storm approaching.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “get cold feet” is uncertain, but it likely originated from literal sensations of coldness in the feet being associated with fear or anxiety. Over time, the phrase evolved into a metaphorical expression used to describe feelings of nervousness or hesitation before taking action. It emphasizes the sudden onset of doubt or apprehension that may cause someone to reconsider or back out of a planned course of action.

Get cold feet
Idiom of the day

Head in the clouds

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Meaning: This idiom is used to describe someone who is detached from reality, lost in their thoughts, or daydreaming instead of being focused on practical matters. It implies that the person’s mind is preoccupied with fantasies, dreams, or impractical ideas rather than grounded in reality.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “He’s always got his head in the clouds; he needs to focus on the tasks at hand.”
  2. “She’s a great artist, but she tends to have her head in the clouds when it comes to managing her finances.”
  3. “The professor is brilliant, but he often has his head in the clouds during meetings.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “head in the clouds” is uncertain, but it likely originated from the literal image of someone who is so absorbed in their thoughts that they seem to be in a different mental realm, disconnected from their surroundings. Over time, the phrase evolved into a metaphorical expression used to describe someone who is absent-minded, impractical, or not paying attention to reality. It emphasizes the idea of being mentally aloof or disconnected from practical concerns.

Head in the clouds
YouTube Videos

Unveiling English Idioms Surprising Origins

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Dive into the captivating world of English idioms with our latest video, ‘Unveiling English Idioms: Surprising Origins’! In under 50 seconds, we uncover the fascinating stories behind commonly used expressions like ‘raining cats and dogs,’ ‘piece of cake,’ and ‘wild goose chase.’ Through a blend of engaging visuals and insightful narration, discover how these idioms originated from historical events, traditions, and everyday life. Get ready to be amazed as we unravel the intriguing origins of these phrases, shedding light on the rich tapestry of the English language.

Idiom of the day

Put your foot in your mouth

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Meaning: This idiom is used to describe the act of saying something inappropriate, embarrassing, or tactless, often unintentionally, that leads to a social blunder or awkward situation. It implies speaking impulsively or without considering the consequences, resulting in embarrassment or regret.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “I really put my foot in my mouth when I asked her if she was pregnant; turns out she wasn’t.”
  2. “He tends to put his foot in his mouth during job interviews by making inappropriate jokes.”
  3. “I didn’t mean to offend anyone, but I really put my foot in my mouth when I commented on his appearance.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “put your foot in your mouth” is unclear, but it likely originated from the literal act of accidentally placing one’s foot in one’s mouth, which is physically awkward and embarrassing. Over time, the phrase evolved into a metaphorical expression used to describe verbal blunders or social faux pas. It emphasizes the idea of inadvertently saying something inappropriate or offensive, resulting in embarrassment or discomfort.

Idiom of the day

Birds of a feather flock together

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Meaning: This idiom is used to express the idea that people with similar interests, characteristics, or backgrounds tend to associate with one another. It implies that individuals who share common traits or behaviors are naturally drawn to each other and form social groups or communities based on these similarities.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “It’s no surprise that they became friends; birds of a feather flock together.”
  2. “In high school, the athletes tended to hang out together; it’s true that birds of a feather flock together.”
  3. “They say that opposites attract, but in our case, it seems that birds of a feather really do flock together.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “birds of a feather flock together” can be traced back to the 16th century, where it was used in a literal sense to describe the natural behavior of birds, which tend to form flocks with others of the same species. Over time, the phrase evolved into a metaphorical expression used to describe human social behavior, particularly the tendency for individuals with similar traits or interests to gravitate towards each other. It emphasizes the idea of similarity and affinity as factors influencing social interactions and relationships.

Birds of a feather flock together
Idiom of the day

Two peas in a pod

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Meaning: This idiom is used to describe two people who are very similar in appearance, behavior, interests, or characteristics. It implies a close resemblance or strong similarity between the individuals, often suggesting a close relationship or bond.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “They’ve been best friends since childhood; they’re like two peas in a pod.”
  2. “The twins are so alike; they’re like two peas in a pod.”
  3. “They both have a passion for photography and travel; they’re like two peas in a pod.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “two peas in a pod” dates back to at least the 16th century, where it was used literally to describe two peas that are contained within the same pod and thus share close proximity and resemblance. Over time, the phrase evolved into a figurative expression used to describe individuals who share strong similarities or characteristics, emphasizing the idea of close association or resemblance. It has been in common usage since the 18th century.

Two peas in a pod
Idiom of the day

Head over heels

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Meaning: This idiom is used to describe being deeply or completely in love, infatuated, or enthusiastic about someone or something. It implies experiencing strong emotions or feelings of affection, excitement, or passion to the point of being overwhelmed or consumed by them.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “They’ve been dating for a month, and he’s already head over heels in love with her.”
  2. “She fell head over heels for the charming new coworker.”
  3. “After trying the new restaurant, they were head over heels for its delicious food.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “head over heels” can be traced back to the 14th century, where it was originally “heels over head,” describing a somersault or tumbling motion. Over time, the phrase evolved into its current form and took on a figurative meaning, emphasizing the idea of being completely overturned or overwhelmed by emotions or enthusiasm. It has been in common usage since at least the 18th century and is commonly used to describe feelings of love, infatuation, or excitement.

Head over heels
Idiom of the day

A match made in heaven

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Meaning: This idiom is used to describe a pairing or combination that seems perfect, ideal, or destined to be successful. It implies that two people or things are exceptionally well-suited for each other and are likely to enjoy harmonious and successful outcomes together.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “Their partnership in the business was a match made in heaven; their skills complemented each other perfectly.”
  2. “When they met, it was like a match made in heaven; they immediately connected and shared the same interests and values.”
  3. “The collaboration between the two companies proved to be a match made in heaven, resulting in groundbreaking innovations and success.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “a match made in heaven” is rooted in the idea of divine or celestial intervention in bringing together compatible or complementary entities. The phrase likely originated from religious or spiritual beliefs about predestined or ordained unions. Over time, the expression evolved into a common idiom used to describe any pairing or combination that is perceived as exceptionally well-suited or destined for success. It emphasizes the idea of perfect compatibility or harmony between two entities.

A match made in heaven