Phrase of the hour
Kick up a fuss
To create a noisy or emotional disturbance, usually in protest or complaint, drawing attention to a grievance with exaggerated reaction. It suggests…
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curious expressions
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Plain-English meanings.
Folklore labelled honestly.
Folklore labelled honestly.
Start with a letter
Browse the cabinet
Pulled from the drawers
A few curious finds
In over your head
Outmatched or overwhelmed, sunk too deep.
Meaning & originJump on the gravy train
Join or exploit a situation that offers easy money, benefits or advancement, often with a suggestion of opportunism or unfair advantage.
Meaning & originThe scales fell from his eyes
Understanding came suddenly, after a long deception - the moment a comfortable illusion collapses and the truth stands plain. The phrase describes…
Meaning & originSang-froid
Calmness and composure in a dangerous, difficult, or embarrassing situation; coolness under pressure. The phrase is approving in tone, suggesting…
Meaning & originThat's the way the cookie crumbles
A resigned way of accepting that something has turned out badly or not as hoped, and that nothing can be done about it. It is usually said of minor…
Meaning & originMeat and potatoes
The fundamentals; the most basic, essential, or central part of something, as in 'the meat and potatoes of the deal'. As an adjective before a noun it…
Meaning & originThe game is afoot
Announces that a pursuit, venture, or operation has begun, usually with relish or anticipation. Once a literal hunting observation that the quarry had…
Meaning & originBetween wind and water
At the most exposed or vulnerable point, where an attack or criticism can do serious harm. Dated and often used with 'hit' or 'strike.' It means at a…
Meaning & origin
Language has legends. Evidence matters.
Colourful story or documented history?
Phrase origins are full of irresistible myths. We separate what historical sources can show from what remains disputed, and link the references behind researched entries.