Idiom of the day

To catch one’s breath

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Meaning: This idiom is used to describe the act of pausing momentarily to rest, recover, or regain composure after exertion, physical activity, or excitement. It implies taking a brief break to breathe deeply and restore normal breathing, especially when one is out of breath or exhausted.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “After running up the stairs, she had to stop and catch her breath before continuing.”
  2. “He paused to catch his breath and calm his nerves before giving his speech.”
  3. “The hiker took a moment to catch his breath and enjoy the breathtaking view from the mountaintop.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “catch one’s breath” is literal, referring to the physical act of pausing to regain normal breathing after exertion. The phrase dates back to at least the 16th century and has been in common usage ever since. It is a straightforward expression that emphasizes the importance of taking a moment to rest and recover, especially after strenuous activity.

To catch one’s breath
Idiom of the day

Kick the habit

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Meaning: This idiom is used to describe the act of successfully overcoming an addiction or breaking a longstanding habit, especially one that is detrimental to one’s health or well-being. It implies ceasing or abandoning a behavior or practice that has become ingrained or habitual.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “He finally kicked the habit and quit smoking after years of trying.”
  2. “She’s determined to kick the habit of procrastination and become more productive.”
  3. “With the support of his friends and family, he was able to kick the habit of excessive drinking.”

Origin: The origin of the phrase “kick the habit” can be traced back to the late 19th or early 20th century and is related to the concept of addiction to substances such as tobacco, alcohol, or drugs. “Habit” refers to a recurrent behavior or practice that is difficult to break. The term “kick” in this context suggests forcefully overcoming or eliminating the habit. Over time, the phrase evolved into a common idiom used to describe the process of overcoming addiction or breaking a longstanding habit.

Kick the habit
Idiom of the day

Get into shape

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Meaning: This idiom is used to describe the act of improving one’s physical fitness or overall health by engaging in exercise, adopting a healthier lifestyle, or achieving a desired level of physical condition. It implies making efforts to become stronger, healthier, or more physically fit.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “I’ve decided to get into shape by joining a gym and starting a regular exercise routine.”
  2. “She’s been working hard to get into shape for her wedding by eating healthier and exercising regularly.”
  3. “He realized he needed to get into shape after struggling to climb a flight of stairs; he started jogging and lifting weights.”

Origin: The origin of the phrase “get into shape” is straightforward, with “shape” referring to one’s physical condition or fitness level. The expression likely originated from the fitness and exercise community and has been in common usage since the mid-20th century. It emphasizes the idea of actively working towards improving one’s physical health and fitness, often through exercise, diet, and lifestyle changes.

Get into shape
Idiom of the day

An apple a day keeps the doctor away

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Meaning: This idiom is used to convey the idea that maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including consuming nutritious foods like fruits and vegetables, can prevent illness and promote good health. It implies that regularly eating apples can contribute to overall well-being and reduce the likelihood of needing medical attention.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “She believes in the saying ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away,’ so she eats an apple every morning.”
  2. “My grandmother always swore by the principle of ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away,’ and she lived a long, healthy life.”
  3. “Instead of relying on medication, he tries to follow the advice of ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away’ by eating healthily and staying active.”

Origin: The origin of the phrase “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” can be traced back to 19th-century Wales. The saying was first recorded in the form of a proverb in the publication “Notes and Queries” in 1866. It reflects the belief in the health benefits of consuming fruits, particularly apples, as part of a balanced diet. While the exact scientific validity of the saying is debated, it remains a popular adage promoting the importance of healthy eating habits for maintaining good health.

An apple a day keeps the doctor away
YouTube Videos

Explore English idioms and have fun with language.

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“Join us for a whirlwind tour of fascinating English idioms! In under 50 seconds, we’ll unravel the mysteries behind common expressions like “Finding a needle in a haystack.’,

Having a frog in your throat,’ ‘Raining cats and dogs,’ and ‘A bull in a china shop.’ With vibrant visuals and snappy explanations, this video is your passport to understanding these quirky phrases and injecting some fun into your language learning journey. Dive in and explore the colorful world of English idioms with us!”

Idiom of the day

In the pink

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Meaning: This idiom is used to describe someone who is in good health, excellent condition, or high spirits. It implies a state of physical or mental well-being, vitality, or robustness.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “After recovering from the flu, she’s finally back in the pink and ready to return to work.”
  2. “Despite his age, he’s still in the pink of health and enjoys an active lifestyle.”
  3. “Winning the championship put the whole team in the pink; they’re full of confidence and enthusiasm.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “in the pink” is uncertain, but it likely stems from the association of the color pink with health and vitality. In the late 16th century, “in the pink” was used to describe a healthy plant or flower in full bloom, which eventually evolved into a metaphor for human health. Over time, the phrase became a common idiom used to describe someone who is in good health or high spirits.

In the pink
Idiom of the day

Keep your head above water

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Meaning: This idiom is used to describe the act of managing to survive or cope with a difficult or challenging situation, especially when facing financial, emotional, or other hardships. It implies staying afloat or maintaining one’s stability and resilience despite adversity or difficulties.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “Despite the financial struggles, they managed to keep their heads above water by cutting expenses and finding additional sources of income.”
  2. “She’s been working two jobs to keep her head above water and support her family.”
  3. “The company is struggling, but they’re doing their best to keep their heads above water and avoid bankruptcy.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “keep your head above water” is literal, referring to the act of staying afloat while swimming to prevent drowning. Over time, the phrase evolved into a metaphorical expression used to describe the ability to survive or cope with challenging circumstances. It emphasizes the importance of resilience, determination, and perseverance in overcoming difficulties and maintaining stability.

Idiom of the day

Make your mouth water

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Meaning: This idiom is used to describe something, such as food or a description of food, that is so appealing or appetizing that it causes one to salivate or feel a strong desire to eat. It implies that the thought or sight of the food is so enticing that it stimulates one’s appetite.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “The aroma of freshly baked bread makes my mouth water every time I pass by the bakery.”
  2. “The chef’s description of the dish made everyone’s mouth water with anticipation.”
  3. “Just thinking about her grandmother’s homemade apple pie makes her mouth water.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “make your mouth water” is based on the physiological response of salivation that occurs when one anticipates eating something delicious or appetizing. The phrase has been in use since at least the 16th century and is commonly used to describe the sensory experience of being tempted or enticed by the sight or description of food. It emphasizes the sensory appeal and desirability of the food in question.

Make your mouth water
Idiom of the day

Hold your horses

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Meaning: This idiom is used to advise someone to be patient, wait, or stop rushing into action. It implies the need to pause, calm down, or refrain from acting impulsively until the appropriate time or circumstances arise.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “Hold your horses! Let’s think through this plan before making any decisions.”
  2. “Before you make a hasty decision, hold your horses and consider all the options.”
  3. “Hold your horses, the meeting hasn’t started yet; we need to wait for everyone to arrive.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “hold your horses” can be traced back to horse racing in the United States in the early 19th century. Jockeys were instructed to “hold their horses” before the race started, ensuring that they didn’t begin prematurely and stayed in line until the signal to start the race was given. Over time, the phrase evolved into a figurative expression used to urge patience or restraint in various situations beyond horse racing.

Hold your horses
Idiom of the day

Keep your cards close to your chest

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Meaning: This idiom is used to describe the act of being secretive or cautious about revealing one’s thoughts, plans, or intentions, especially in situations where revealing too much information could be disadvantageous or risky. It implies a strategy of maintaining confidentiality or withholding information in order to maintain an advantage or avoid potential pitfalls.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “He’s always keeping his cards close to his chest, making it difficult to know what he’s really thinking.”
  2. “In negotiations, it’s important to keep your cards close to your chest until you know the other party’s position.”
  3. “She’s not one to share her plans openly; she prefers to keep her cards close to her chest until she’s ready to reveal them.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “keeping your cards close to your chest” is derived from the game of poker, where players hold their cards close to their chest (or body) to prevent others from seeing their hand and gaining an advantage. By keeping their cards concealed, players maintain a strategic advantage and increase the likelihood of success in the game. Over time, the phrase evolved into a metaphorical expression used to describe the act of maintaining secrecy or discretion in various situations beyond the context of card games.

Keep your cards close to your chest