Phrase of the hour
All and sundry
Every person without distinction or exception; everyone in a particular group or place. Now mildly formal or old-fashioned. It normally refers to…
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Plain-English meanings.
Folklore labelled honestly.
Folklore labelled honestly.
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Loose cannon
An unpredictable or reckless person, liable to cause havoc.
Meaning & originThe law is an ass
A law or its rigid application is foolish, unjust or contrary to common sense. Blunt and critical but not obscene in British usage; 'ass' here means…
Meaning & originThe powers that be
The people or institutions currently holding authority, often viewed as remote or impersonal. Often mildly sceptical or humorous because the authority…
Meaning & originGive the game away
Reveal a secret, hidden intention, plan, or surprise, often inadvertently, so that a deception is exposed or the intended surprise is spoiled. The…
Meaning & originSuffer fools gladly
Tolerate foolish, incompetent, or irritating people patiently, without showing open annoyance. Most often appears in the negative to describe an…
Meaning & originZapped out
Totally exhausted or drained.
Meaning & originMake ends meet
Have just enough income or resources to cover necessary expenses. Usually concerns household finances and basic needs. Both is historically common but…
Meaning & originKick against the pricks
Resist authority or unavoidable pressure in a way that only hurts oneself. Potentially distracting today because prick has acquired other senses. The…
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.