Phrase of the hour
At death's door
So close to dying that the arrival is nearly announced - said of the critically ill, and by extension of anything tottering: firms, seasons, careers…
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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
On the ropes
In a tight spot or near defeat, reeling.
Meaning & originClean the Augean stables
To clear away an accumulated mass of corruption, neglect, or filth - usually in an institution - in one decisive effort. The phrase is reserved for…
Meaning & originGrey area
A situation, question or field of activity that resists clear classification, where the rules are unclear or the boundary between right and wrong…
Meaning & originDon't look a gift horse in the mouth
Don't question or critique a free gift, taking it as is.
Meaning & originYou can't teach an old dog new tricks
Older folks or things resist change or learning, stuck in ways.
Meaning & originMind your Ps and Qs
Be careful about your manners, conduct, or details; behave properly and avoid mistakes.
Meaning & originRattle your dags
Hurry up or get moving. Very informal. The literal farming reference makes the phrase earthy but not normally obscene. Regional use: New Zealand; also…
Meaning & originThe blind leading the blind
People who lack knowledge or ability trying to guide others who are equally uninformed. Common but potentially insensitive if used carelessly around…
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.