Phrase of the hour
Cut and dried
Already settled, prepared or decided, often in a routine way that allows little originality or debate. Commonly used in the negative, as in not cut…
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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
Throw shade
To insult someone subtly or indirectly, often through a cutting remark, a dismissive tone or a nonverbal gesture such as a side-eye, rather than an…
Meaning & originNot worth a hill of beans
Practically worthless, amounting to little.
Meaning & originGive the slip
To escape or dodge someone slyly, slipping away unnoticed.
Meaning & originCold turkey
The abrupt, complete cessation of an addictive habit, especially drugs, without tapering or substitute treatment; also the physical withdrawal state…
Meaning & originHigh on the hog
In an affluent or luxurious manner, with access to expensive comforts. Informal and chiefly American.
Meaning & originNo skin off my nose
No harm, inconvenience, or important loss to me; therefore not something I mind. Informal and sometimes dismissive. It expresses personal indifference…
Meaning & originIn over your head
Outmatched or overwhelmed, sunk too deep.
Meaning & originGet your ducks in a row
Become thoroughly organised and prepared by arranging the necessary details before acting.
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.