Phrase of the hour
By and large
Generally, on the whole or after considering the main aspects. A sentence adverb usually set off by commas. 'By in large' is a mishearing, not a…
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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
Donkey's years
A very long time. Usually appears after 'for' or 'in'. The shortened 'donkey's' is informal British usage. Regional use: United Kingdom, Ireland and…
Meaning & originLaugh like a drain
Laugh very loudly, freely and often unattractively. Informal. It emphasizes volume and abandon rather than elegance. Regional use: Chiefly British and…
Meaning & originQuick on the draw
Fast to react or respond.
Meaning & originHave a butcher's
To take a quick peek or look, a glance.
Meaning & originRun a tight ship
To manage strictly or well, all in line.
Meaning & originGo pound sand
Go away; a dismissive refusal to cooperate or take someone seriously. Current, blunt, and mildly rude Regional use: United States.
Meaning & originYou've got your work cut out
Facing a tough, big job, all laid out.
Meaning & originPut a damper on
To dampen or spoil the mood, cooling the fun.
Meaning & originLanguage 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.