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Apple of discord

Meaning: This idiom refers to a cause of strife, dispute, or contention. It implies something that provokes disagreement and conflict among people.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “The inheritance was the apple of discord among the siblings, leading to numerous arguments and legal battles.”
  2. “The controversial policy became the apple of discord within the community, dividing opinions and causing heated debates.”
  3. “The new promotion system turned into an apple of discord, with employees feeling unfairly treated.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “apple of discord” comes from Greek mythology. According to the myth, Eris, the goddess of discord, was not invited to the wedding of Peleus and Thetis. In retaliation, she threw a golden apple inscribed with the word “kallistēi” (meaning “to the fairest”) among the goddesses at the wedding feast. Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite each claimed the apple, leading to a dispute that eventually resulted in the Trojan War. The phrase has since been used to describe anything that causes division and conflict among people.

Apple of discord

Bear fruit

Meaning: This idiom means to produce positive results or successful outcomes. It implies that efforts or investments are yielding beneficial and tangible results.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “After months of hard work, their project is finally starting to bear fruit.”
  2. “Her persistent efforts to improve her skills have begun to bear fruit with several job offers.”
  3. “The new marketing strategy is bearing fruit, with increased sales and customer engagement.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “bear fruit” comes from agriculture and gardening, where plants and trees produce fruit as a result of growth and cultivation. This natural process of bearing fruit has been used metaphorically to describe efforts or actions that result in successful outcomes or positive results. The idiom emphasizes the idea of reaping the rewards of hard work and patience, much like harvesting fruit from a well-tended plant.

Bear fruit

Fresh as a daisy

Meaning: This idiom means to be very fresh, energetic, and lively, often after rest or sleep. It implies looking or feeling rejuvenated and full of vitality.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “After a good night’s sleep, she woke up feeling fresh as a daisy.”
  2. “He arrived at the office looking fresh as a daisy, ready to tackle the day.”
  3. “Despite the long journey, the children were fresh as daisies and eager to explore.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “fresh as a daisy” comes from the natural freshness and vibrancy of daisies, which are known for opening their petals in the morning and appearing bright and lively. The phrase likens a person’s rejuvenated state to the freshness of a daisy. It has been used in English since at least the 19th century to describe someone who appears well-rested, energetic, and ready to face the day, just as a daisy looks fresh and vibrant when it blooms in the morning.

Fresh as a daisy

Like a cactus in the desert

Meaning: This idiom means to be well-suited or adapted to a particular environment or situation. It implies thriving in conditions where others might struggle or finding oneself in a fitting place.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “In the fast-paced world of finance, she was like a cactus in the desert, perfectly adapted and thriving.”
  2. “Living in the bustling city, he felt like a cactus in the desert, right where he belonged.”
  3. “His innovative ideas made him like a cactus in the desert within the tech industry, flourishing where others found it difficult.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “like a cactus in the desert” comes from the natural ability of cacti to thrive in harsh, arid desert conditions where many other plants would perish. This resilience and suitability to a specific environment have been used metaphorically to describe people or situations that are exceptionally well-suited to their surroundings. The idiom captures the essence of thriving in conditions that are challenging for others, emphasizing adaptability and appropriateness.

Like a cactus in the desert

Everything’s coming up roses

Meaning: This idiom means that everything is going very well or is turning out favorably. It implies a situation where events are unfolding positively and successfully.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “Since he started his new job, everything’s been coming up roses for him.”
  2. “With the recent success of her book and the positive feedback, it seems like everything’s coming up roses.”
  3. “After a difficult year, it’s nice to see that everything is finally coming up roses.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “everything’s coming up roses” is believed to be from the 1959 Broadway musical Gypsy, where the song “Everything’s Coming Up Roses” expresses optimism and success. The imagery of roses, which are often associated with beauty and positive emotions, helps to convey the idea of favorable outcomes and flourishing circumstances. This phrase has since been used in English to describe situations where things are going exceedingly well and turning out better than expected.

Everything’s coming up roses

Go out on a limb

Meaning: This idiom means to take a risk or put oneself in a vulnerable position to support someone or something. It implies making a bold or risky move, often to help or stand up for someone else.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “She went out on a limb to recommend him for the promotion, even though others had doubts.”
  2. “By investing in the startup, he’s going out on a limb, hoping it will be successful.”
  3. “I know it’s risky, but I’m willing to go out on a limb and vouch for her character.”

Origin: The idiom “go out on a limb” originates from the literal act of climbing out onto a tree limb, which is inherently risky because the limb might not support one’s weight and could break. This physical act of putting oneself in a precarious position became a metaphor for taking risks or making bold moves. The phrase has been used in English since at least the early 20th century to describe situations where someone takes a significant risk, often to support or help someone else.

Go out on a limb

In full bloom

Meaning: This idiom means to be at the peak of development, beauty, or health. It implies a state of flourishing, thriving, or being fully developed and impressive.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “The garden is in full bloom, with flowers of every color covering the landscape.”
  2. “Her career is in full bloom, with successful projects and recognition from her peers.”
  3. “Springtime in this town is beautiful, with cherry trees in full bloom lining the streets.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “in full bloom” comes from the natural phenomenon of flowers blooming. When a flower is in full bloom, it is fully open, vibrant, and at the peak of its beauty. This imagery has been extended metaphorically to describe people, projects, or situations that are thriving, fully developed, and at their best. The phrase captures the essence of flourishing and reaching a peak state, much like the beauty and vitality seen in blooming flowers.

In full bloom

Branch out

Meaning: This idiom means to expand or diversify one’s activities, interests, or business ventures. It implies moving into new areas or exploring new opportunities beyond the current scope.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “After years of working as a graphic designer, she decided to branch out and start her own marketing agency.”
  2. “The company plans to branch out into the European market next year.”

Origin: The idiom “branch out” originates from the growth pattern of trees and plants. Just as a tree grows new branches to extend its reach and access more sunlight, the metaphorical use of “branch out” describes expanding one’s activities or exploring new opportunities. This natural imagery effectively conveys the idea of growth and diversification. The phrase has been used in English for many years to describe personal, professional, or business expansion and exploration into new areas.

Branch out